Libraries NI invites the public to explore how death has been experienced through the lenses of history, culture and community

Libraries NI is inviting the public to take part in a thought-provoking week of events and discussions exploring how death has been understood across time and cultures.

Running from Monday 17 to Friday 21 November 2025, Let’s Talk About… Death, Dying and Grief will feature a diverse programme of talks, workshops, exhibitions, and storytelling events taking place in libraries and online.

The initiative aims to examine conversations around death, dying and bereavement, looking at how different communities, past and present, have marked loss, honoured the dead, and found meaning in mortality.

Confirmed speakers include Professor Gabriel Cooney (UCD) on prehistoric burial practices in Ireland, Dr Nisha Tandon (ArtsEkta) on cultural attitudes to death around the world, and Professor Eileen Murphy (QUB) on children’s burial grounds in Ireland. Visitors can also enjoy storytelling sessions on Irish wake traditions, music and folklore events, and online talks exploring topics from ancient Egypt to the American Wake.

Alongside these events, a special exhibition titled ‘Famous Last Words: Reflections on Life, Death and Legacy’ will be on display in libraries across Northern Ireland, bringing together powerful and memorable final words from history, literature, and popular culture.

Speaking about the initiative, Chief Executive of Libraries NI Dr Jim O’Hagan said:

“Death and grief are universal experiences and yet they’re often surrounded by silence. This programme is about creating open, welcoming spaces to reflect, share stories, and learn from how people across history and cultures have faced death, and in doing so, celebrated life.”

The week will also include a practical Advanced Planning Workshop, delivered in partnership with Compassionate Communities and Macmillan, offering advice on how to prepare for the future and support loved ones through loss.

All events are free of charge, and leaflets and reading lists will be available in libraries and online with details of organisations offering further information and support.


There are two online events available:

Displaying the Dead: Human Remains from the Ancient Egypt at the Ulster Museum.
Thursday 20 November from 12 noon - 1:00pm.
Register here.


Ireland of a Thousand Goodbyes: The America Wake and Memories of Mass Emigration.
Thursday 20 November from 7:00pm - 8:00pm.
Register here.