Libraries NI brings communities together to take small actions for a greener future

From sharing gardening tips and swapping seeds to discussing climate action over a cup of tea, Libraries NI is encouraging people across Northern Ireland to come together and discover how small actions can make a lasting difference during Go Green with Libraries NI this September.

A programme of free community events will give people of all ages the opportunity to learn new skills, share ideas and take practical steps towards living more sustainably. Whether it's making an eco-promise, joining a Climate Café or taking part in a community litter pick, the events aim to show that everyone can play a part in protecting the environment.

Community events will take place in libraries across Northern Ireland throughout September. Visitors to Armagh City Library can make an eco-promise by adding their pledge to the library's Pledgehog throughout the month, while the library will also host a Live Here Love Here Climate Café on Tuesday 15 September, bringing people together to share ideas for creating greener communities. Families can join the new Green Sprouts Eco Club at Belfast Central Library on Tuesday 15 September, while volunteers in Castlewellan are invited to help care for their local environment during a community Litter Pick on Tuesday 15 September.
 
The following week, Greystone Library will host a Gardening Club Plant Swap on Tuesday 22 September, before Greenisland Library rounds off the programme with Sow, Swap and Sip on Tuesday 29 September, where local gardeners can exchange seeds, share growing advice and enjoy a chat over a cup of tea.
The activities reflect the campaign's theme of Small Actions. Shared Impact., demonstrating how simple changes and community action can collectively have a positive effect on the environment while bringing people together through their local library.

Helen Poston, Libraries NI Service Development Manager, said:

"Creating a greener future isn't something we do alone. It happens when communities come together to share ideas, support one another and take practical steps, however small, to protect the environment.
Go Green with Libraries NI provides opportunities for people to learn from each other, discover new skills and make simple changes that can have a lasting impact. We hope these events will inspire people to get involved and see how their local library can support them on that journey."