Whiterock Library Launches a New Look Childrens Library

Libraries NI Chief Executive, Jim O’Hagan, is pictured with Chris Quinn, NI Children's Commissioner, and pupils from Coláiste Feirste , Bunscoil An tSléibhe Dhuibh and St Maria Goretti Nursery School at the official opening of the newly renovated children’s library at Whiterock Library.

Whiterock Library today welcomed the Children’s Commissioner for Northern Ireland, school children from the area and members of local organisations to officially open the newly renovated children’s library.

Guests were invited to take a tour of the stunning new look library that has been meticulously designed with the intention of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for Libraries NI’s junior members. Families were treated to a special festive storytelling session with the Libraries NI Storyteller in Residence Liz Weir MBE with musical entertainment being provided by pupils from Coláiste Feirste, Bunscoil An tSléibhe Dhuibh and Holy Trinity Primary School during the event.

The children’s library has undergone a remarkable transformation and has been expanded to twice its original size. A carefully curated space has been created that is not only visually appealing, but also comfortable and welcoming. The library is filled with colourful bookshelves, displaying a wide variety of books that cater to different age groups and interests. The cosy reading corner, complete with low level book boxes and modern soft seating, has been redecorated so children can curl up and immerse themselves in the stories.

A well-equipped IT Hub provides children with the invaluable opportunity to gain free access to desktop computers, reliable broadband and Wi-Fi. Additional study desks have been added to this dedicated area allowing even more young members to use the resources and space to complete their homework assignments with ease whilst developing essential digital skills.

Jennifer Stafford, Libraries NI Area Manager said:

“The new children's library is a vibrant and inviting space designed specifically for our young readers to enjoy. In the upcoming months we have an exciting line up of additional children’s programming and events which will include additional sessions of the popular Rhythm and Rhyme, monthly Library Club, creative writing classes and book groups with many more programmes to be added.

“We hope the children's library will be a haven for young readers, providing a nurturing and inspiring space for them to explore all the library has to offer and I look forward to welcoming everyone in.”

The adult library has relocated to the spacious large meeting room, providing the local community access to an even wider range of books and resources than before whilst still comfortably accommodating regular groups that meet in the library including Knit & Natter and Tea and Newspapers.

The library offers a wide range of activities, resources and events, all of which are completely free for our members. One such event is the Christmas Casting on Monday 18 December from 3:00pm - 3:45pm and 4:00pm - 4:45pm. Children aged four to eight years are invited to join artist Kate O'Neill as she helps participants create a special Christmas tree decoration by making a plaster cast of their hand!

Signing up is FREE so why not take advantage and join today to explore everything your local library has to offer. Simply visit www.librariesni.org.uk or call into your local branch.

The opening hours have also been extended with Whiterock Library now opening each day from 9:00am – 5:00pm ensuring the space is open just in time for school drop off so call in on your way by.

For more information on everything happening in Whiterock Library contact the branch on telephone: 028 9050 9236 or email whiterock.library@librariesni.org.uk.

Dr Jim O’Hagan, Libraries NI Chief Executive, and Chris Quinn, NI Children’s Commissioner along with Libraries NI Chairperson Professor Bernard Cullan, and Kathryn Menary and Claire McClelland from the Department of Education.

Pupils from Holy Trinity Primary School entertain guests with some festive songs at the official launch of the newly renovated children’s library.

Pupils from Bunscoil An tSléibhe Dhuibh entertaining guests at the newly renovated children’s library at Whiterock Library.