Libraries NI supports Childrens Mental Health Week with free events in libraries across Northern Ireland

Libraries NI is supporting Children’s Mental Health Week 2026 with a number of free events taking place in libraries across Northern Ireland, offering children and families welcoming spaces to explore feelings, wellbeing and emotional resilience together.

Children’s Mental Health Week takes place from 9 to 15 February and this year’s theme, This is My Place, focuses on the importance of belonging and how feeling part of a community can support children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing. A sense of belonging plays a vital role in helping children feel valued, confident and able to express themselves.

Throughout the week, libraries will host a range of activities designed to promote emotional wellbeing in gentle, age-appropriate ways. Events include storytelling, craft activities, creative writing and opportunities for children and families to spend time together in calm, familiar settings.

One of the highlights of the week will take place in Chichester Library which is hosting a Reading for Wellbeing – Feelings, Confidence and Connection workshop, led by Orla McKeating, founder of Still I Rise Storytelling and an experienced facilitator who uses storytelling in an engaging way to support children’s wellbeing and sense of belonging, on Wednesday 11 February at 10:00am. The session will use storytelling to explore emotions and experiences in a thoughtful and accessible way, helping children engage with their feelings through stories and shared discussion. This workshop is ideal for children aged 5 – 7 years, however children up to 9 years old are welcome to take part and benefit from the session.

Libraries NI Chief Executive Jim O’Hagan said:
“Libraries are trusted spaces at the heart of communities, and we have an important role to play in supporting children and families. Children’s Mental Health Week, and this year’s theme This is My Place, highlights how important it is for children to feel they belong. Libraries offer friendly environments where children and young people can feel welcome, valued and supported.”

During Children’s Mental Health Week, libraries provide welcoming spaces where children and families can come together to take part in activities that promote wellbeing and positive mental health.

All events are free to attend, though booking may be required for some sessions. Full details of events taking place during Children’s Mental Health Week can be found here.