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. The initiative is designed to support the local food network while offering a peaceful place for library customers to relax, connect and grow.

The launch event will run from 11:00am – 1:00pm, and will feature short talks by project leads, a special ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, and the chance to take home seeds from the Seed Library.

There’ll be refreshments provided and even a creative colouring station for younger visitors, where families can design bees to be included in a special art display in Antrim Library this June.“This project is a great example of what libraries can offer beyond books and is about more than growing food – it’s about growing community.” said Danielle Thomas, Libraries NI District Manager.
 
“By joining forces with Antrim Community Fridge, we’ve been able to create an inclusive, welcoming space that supports wellbeing, sustainability and learning. Libraries are trusted local hubs, and this garden reflects our continued commitment to building strong community connections and offering opportunities for people to come together in new and meaningful ways.”
 
Pamela Minford, Chair of Antrim Community Fridge who helped secure funding for the garden and recruited a team of dedicated volunteers, said:

“The Community Garden at Antrim Library is a testament to the power of community collaboration. It’s not just about growing plants; it’s about nurturing connections, promoting sustainability, and creating a space where everyone is welcome to learn, share, and flourish together.”

Volunteers have already been busy nurturing plants at home, ready for display in the library planters. With help and guidance from Antrim Community Fridge Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, the garden will feature a mix of colourful blooms like wildflowers, lavender and tulips, alongside fruit and vegetables such as beetroot, lettuces, radishes, strawberries, spring onions – and culinary herbs including rosemary, thyme and mint.

Everyone is welcome to attend the launch event – whether you’re a green-fingered gardener or simply curious to see what’s growing. The launch promises a warm welcome, a strong sense of community spirit, and a glimpse at how small local spaces can have a big impact.

For more information, contact Antrim Library on 028 9446 1942 or email antrim.library@librariesni.org.uk.