News

Libraries NI Supports Loneliness Awareness Week by Celebrating the Power of Everyday Connections

As Loneliness Awareness Week approaches (9 – 15 June 2025), Libraries NI is encouraging people to take a fresh look at what their local library provides for customers in communities across Northern Ireland. With 96 public libraries, Libraries NI plays a vital role in supporting connection and wellbeing through inclusive, welcoming spaces and activities.

19 May 2025

Omagh Library Creative Space

Libraries NI is offering local artists, designers, photographers etc. a unique opportunity to use a Creative Space rent free to 31 March 2026. Libraries NI is providing a space of over 16 square metres in Omagh Regional Administration Centre. The space can be used for creative purposes, as a workshop or studio. As stated there will be no rent requirements and all utilities are supplied free of charge. The successful candidate will only need to supply all their own equipment and materials.

16 May 2025

New Community Garden Blossoms at Antrim Library – Join the Celebration on Wednesday 21 May 2025

A new chapter in community wellbeing and sustainability is taking root at Antrim Library with the launch of a vibrant Community Garden on Wednesday 21 May – and everyone is invited to come along and enjoy the celebration! Developed in partnership with Antrim Community Fridge, the garden transforms an underused space into a flourishing, accessible hub filled with flowers, vegetables, herbs and seating areas.

15 May 2025

New Computers Coming to Libraries – Phased Rollout Underway

We’re installing brand new computers in all Libraries NI branches as part of the final stage of our e3 project. This upgrade includes new slimline PCs, modern monitors, updated keyboards and mice. The new design features a compact unit with the PC base unit attached to the back of the screen – giving a tidy, space-saving setup. USB ports and other access points remain available for external devices.

09 May 2025

Find Your Focus with Libraries NI

With exam season fast approaching, Libraries NI is reminding students of the power of focused study—and why libraries provide a great environment to get exam-ready. As pupils begin to prepare for upcoming assessments, finding the right space to revise becomes crucial. Libraries across Northern Ireland offer a place for students to study away from the potential noises and distractions of busy lives.

06 May 2025

Strathfoyle Library Commemorates 80th Anniversary of the Lisahally U-Boat Surrender

Strathfoyle Library is inviting the local community to a special event on Tuesday 13 May from 10:30am to 12:30pm, to mark the 80th anniversary of the Lisahally U-Boat surrender — a significant moment in local and global history. This commemorative event will feature talks and discussions exploring the arrival of the German U-Boats in Lisahally at the end of the Second World War and the impact it had on local families and communities at the time.

06 May 2025

Ballycastle Library Hosts Book Launch with Local Author Dessie Smyth

Ballycastle Library is delighted to welcome local author, baker and founder of Ballycastle Community Fridge, Dessie Smyth, for the launch of his new book I’ll Rise Up on Thursday 29 May from 6:30pm to 7:45pm. A familiar and much-loved figure in the local community, Dessie will share readings from his latest publication — a heartfelt collection of art, poetry and personal stories.

06 May 2025

Visit the Powerful INSPIRED Exhibition in Lisburn City Library

Lisburn City Library is inviting the local community to visit INSPIRED, a powerful and moving exhibition currently on display, celebrating 65 years of the mental health and wellbeing charity, Inspire. The INSPIRED exhibition brings together personal stories from Inspire’s service users, staff, and volunteers, offering a glimpse into the impact the charity has had on lives across Northern Ireland.

01 May 2025