New Book Club and Reading Corner Offers Support to Cancer Patients in Belfast

Photo: Staff from Belfast Trust, Macmillan Cancer Support and Libraries NI joined by members of Macmillan Cancer Support Book Club and Service User Involvement Group

Belfast Trust Cancer Support Services, in partnership with Libraries NI, has launched a new initiative to support patients and families affected by cancer. The initiative includes a dedicated reading corner at the Macmillan Cancer Support Centre and the formation of a monthly book club for patients.

Libraries NI has contributed a selection of books for the reading corner and provided patients and their families with information on how they can get free and instant access to thousands of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers and eMagazines during their time in the Centre and at home through the Libraries NI digital reading resources.

Photo: Debbie Wightman - Belfast Trust Co-Director for Cancer & Specialist Medicine, Julie McGrady – Macmillan Service Improvement Lead, Bonnie Anley - Libraries NI Chairperson, Margaret McManus – Macmillan Information Services Manager, Mary-Ellen Lynn – Libraires NI Area Manager and Adrienne Adair – Libraries NI Director of Library Services

Julie McGrady, Macmillan Service Improvement Lead said,

“We want to emphasise the positive role books and reading can play in enhancing a person’s wellbeing. Often patients and their families can travel long distances to attend appointments. They may be feeling anxious and could be in hospital for a number of hours. This initiative gives our patients an opportunity to take some time away from the clinical setting and come to the centre to borrow or read a book and also meet with other patients and families going through a similar experience.”

Bonnie Anley, Libraries NI Chairperson said;

“Libraries NI is delighted to support the new Reading Corner and Book Club at the Macmillan Cancer Support Centre. With 96 libraries across Northern Ireland, we’re committed to providing inclusive, warm, and welcoming spaces where people can read, connect and form friendships.

“This initiative is particularly meaningful because it brings the benefits of a library to those who might not be able to access one - patients, carers, and staff alike. The Reading Corner offers not only a chance to enjoy the escapism of a good story but also a boost to mental health and wellbeing. The book club is already thriving and is a wonderful opportunity for people attending the Centre to experience the joy and support that libraries can provide, right where they need it most.”

The book club provides a sense of community, offering patients an opportunity to socialise and connect with others and gain additional peer support from other patients on their own cancer journey. Members report feeling less isolated by sharing their experiences and enjoying books together.

Book Club member Fiona Presho shared her thoughts on the initiative:

"Having cancer brought me to the Macmillan Cancer Centre, which has been the most wonderful place. Joining the book club has allowed me to meet so many people and deepen those connections - not just by getting to know one another, but also by exploring and enjoying literature together. It’s such a comfort to come to a quiet space, relax, enjoy a cuppa, and have a chat.

“What’s special is that it’s not about cancer; it’s about everything else. That’s what makes it so refreshing, just to take your mind off things."

The Reading Corner and Book Club are now active at the Macmillan Cancer Support Centre, offering patients and their families a welcoming space to unwind and find support through shared stories and conversation.

If you would like to find out more information or join the Book Club please contact the Macmillan Cancer Support Centre on 028 9063 8980.

Watch the video below to hear from those involved