Belfast Central Library
Customer notices
CUSTOMER NOTICE - Bank Holiday Closure
All public libraries in Northern Ireland will be closed on Monday 31 August and Mobile Libraries will not be on the road. The Out of Hours Service will be available in applicable libraries. You can check out our eResources via our website or app.
View full details and other service updates:
Customer Notices
Belfast Central Library Fully Reopens to Customers
From Monday 3 August, Belfast Central Library will once again be fully open to customers, with the reopening of the first floor Reading Room.
Customers can once again enjoy the Reading Room for reading, study and research, marking the full reopening of all public areas within the library.
We would like to thank customers for their patience and understanding.
Belfast Central Library Northern Ireland Contemporary Fiction Collection
This unique collection features works by authors born in Northern Ireland, those who have spent significant time living here, and books set within Northern Ireland. It will encompass a variety of genres, including adult and junior fiction, poetry, and plays.
The NI Contemporary Fiction Collection is on the second floor of Belfast Central Library, Royal Avenue. Music books, CDs, and scores are still available upon request from staff or via the Libraries NI catalogue, a selection of music titles can also be found in the Link corridor on the same floor.
View the Belfast Central Library 135th Anniversary Booklet
Library Location
Events
Events
| Event Name | Event Details | Start Date and Time | End Date and Time | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| After Schools Club |
Join us in Belfast central Library for our free after school club in the children’s library. There will be activities, colouring pages and puzzles available daily. t: 028 9050 9150 |
21/04/2026 3:30pm | 30/06/2027 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Board Games Club |
Board games available for children aged 8+ every Thursday afternoon from 3:30pm – 4:30pm. |
23/04/2026 3:30pm | 24/06/2027 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Belfast Central Library tour |
Join us for a tour of one of Belfast’s most iconic buildings. Find out the history (and the secrets!) of Northern Ireland’s oldest public library. Everyone welcome. |
24/04/2026 10:30am | 27/11/2026 11:30am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Lunchtime Adult Reading Group |
Lunchtime Reading Group; Last Friday of the Month. From 12:30pm – 1:30pm Chat about popular titles from a wide range of genres in a relaxed and informal setting. Free tea and coffee will be provided – feel free to bring a packed lunch. Please contact Belfast Central Library for more information and to pick up a copy of this month’s book. |
24/04/2026 12:30pm | 25/06/2027 1:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Belfast Central Seed Library |
The Belfast Central Seed Library is located on the Ground Floor of Central Lending. It is very easy to take part: Simply take a packet or 2 of seeds from our seed catalogue drawers. We have a large selection of flower, plants, herb and vegetable seeds to choose from. And before you leave don’t forget to also check our A - Z of gardening related book subjects listed in the catalogue drawer. You might just find a book to help you with your planting! Then take your seed packets home, plant them and enjoy watching them grow and don’t forget to let us know how you get on. Finally, if you know of anyone else who would interested in our Seed Library please let them know about it. The more budding gardeners we can get the better as it will help our Seed Library continue to grow! Available during library opening hours. |
27/04/2026 9:00am | 30/06/2027 5:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Tea and Newspapers |
Monday to Friday from 10:00am - 12:00pm. Everyone welcome. Tea and Newspapers groups give adults the opportunity to meet new people, socialise and discuss local and national affairs in the newspapers while enjoying complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits. |
27/04/2026 10:00am | 28/06/2027 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go On - Newspaper Library One to One Sessions |
Find out about our extensive collection in the Newspaper Library and how to use it. Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
28/04/2026 9:30am | 25/06/2027 4:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Knit and Natter |
Every Tuesday from 10:00am - 12 Noon. Everyone welcome. Knit and Natter groups are for adults who enjoy knitting, crochet, cross stitch and other crafts. They are free of charge to attend and participants have the opportunity to share hints and tips, swap patterns, meet new people and learn new skills. Members can bring along a project they are already working on or can start something new. |
28/04/2026 10:00am | 29/06/2027 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Chess Club |
Every Wednesday morning on the First Floor. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 30/06/2027 1:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Rhythm and Rhyme |
Every Wednesday and Friday from 11:00am – 11:30am. Rhythm and Rhyme sessions introduce parents and children aged 0 - 4 years to the wonder of rhymes, songs and stories. Each session offers an entertaining opportunity for children to engage with others, provides a good foundation to develop their reading, listening and language skills and of course to have lots of fun. |
29/04/2026 11:00am | 25/06/2027 11:30am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Storytime and Craft |
Afternoon Storytime session every Wednesday 3:30pm – 4:15pm. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking not required. t: 028 9050 9150 |
29/04/2026 3:30pm | 30/06/2027 4:15pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Mindful Colouring |
Every Thursday 10:30am-12:00pm. Everyone welcome. Mindful Colouring groups are for anyone who wants to explore the world of adult colouring with intricate colouring patterns and designs. They can enhance well-being, help calm the mind and relieve stress through relaxed, meditative colouring in. |
30/04/2026 10:30am | 24/06/2027 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Cryptic Corner |
Every Friday morning on the First Floor. Everyone welcome Keep your mind active - relax with crosswords, sudokus and word searches in good company whilst enjoying complimentary tea/coffee and biscuits. |
01/05/2026 10:00am | 25/06/2027 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Shared Reading Group |
Every Friday 2:30pm - 3:30pm. Come along and enjoy listening to literature being read aloud in real time and be part of a shared reading group discussion. You will enjoy listening to a great story or poem, with no pressure to talk or read. Refreshments provided. |
01/05/2026 2:30pm | 25/06/2027 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Lego Club |
Every Saturday from 2:00pm - 4:00pm. Booking not required. Come along to have Lego building fun. Fun and creative ideas for things to make and build Lego. Duplo is available for younger children. |
02/05/2026 2:00pm | 26/06/2027 4:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Classical Music Club |
First Wednesday of every month from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Get together with like minded people to enjoy listening to and discussing all things classical music. Each month will focus on the music of a specific genre or composer. Booking essential. t: 028 9050 9150 |
06/05/2026 11:00am | 02/06/2027 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Classic Book Group |
First Thursday of the month from 1:00pm - 2:00pm.
Chat about classic titles from a wide range of genres in a relaxed and informal setting. Free tea and coffee will be provided – feel free to bring a packed lunch.
|
07/05/2026 1:00pm | 03/06/2027 2:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Junior Reading Group |
Are you a curious reader aged 8 – 10? If you love reading why not join our new monthly reading group. First Thursday of every month from 3:30pm – 4:30pm. |
07/05/2026 3:30pm | 06/05/2027 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| A Brew And A Browse |
Every Wednesday morning on the 1st Floor Everyone welcome. Enjoy tea/coffee and biscuits whilst you browse specially selected items on various topics from our extensive book and periodical stock. |
12/08/2026 11:00am | 30/06/2027 1:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Maurice Shannon Botanical Art |
Call in to Belfast Central Library to see the beautiful botanical art of Maurice Shannon. A professional 3D design consultant for more than 30 years, Maurice takes inspiration from the plants in his garden and surrounding fields. |
16/08/2026 9:00am | 25/09/2026 10:00am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go On - 1-2-1 eClinic |
1-2-1 eClinic - IT help for beginners: help with your mobile device, general IT assistance, information about library e-services. |
19/08/2026 10:30am | 19/08/2026 11:30am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go On - Moneysaving Madness! |
Moneysaving madness! Sample websites that can help you budget, get cashback, compare prices, and cut the cost of grocery shopping. |
20/08/2026 10:30am | 20/08/2026 11:30am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Instrument-making Workshop |
Unleash your inner artisan and discover the harmony of handmade music at Belfast Central Library! Join us for our Instrument-Making Workshop, where we will transform everyday materials into functional musical instruments. Perfect for makers of all skill levels, this hands-on session guides you through the rewarding process of crafting your own acoustic creations from scratch – which you can then take home! t: 028 9050 9150 |
20/08/2026 2:30pm | 20/08/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Kubo the Robot |
Kubo the Robot in Space Belfast Central Library |
21/08/2026 2:30pm | 21/08/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go On - 1-2-1 eClinic |
1-2-1 eClinic - IT help for beginners: help with your mobile device, general IT assistance, information about library e-services. |
26/08/2026 10:00am | 26/08/2026 11:00am | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Big Summer Read Award Ceremony |
Come celebrate reading and bookworms at Belfast Central Library for the finale of our Big Summer Read activities. Whether you read three books or thirty, join us in the library for our certificate presentation ceremony. Place a new leaf on our Poet-Tree and make your own poem using the leaves other people have written. How has your Story Tree grown? t: 028 9050 9150 |
27/08/2026 2:30pm | 27/08/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Late Night Art: Maurice Shannon Botanical Art |
Start off your late night art trail at Belfast Central Library to see the beautiful botanical art of Maurice Shannon. A professional 3D design consultant for more than 30 years, Maurice takes inspiration from the plants in his garden and surrounding fields. Tea and coffee available in the foyer. |
03/09/2026 5:00pm | 03/09/2026 7:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Save the Bees Stories and Craft |
Join us at Belfast Central Library to celebrate Go Green Month with Libraries NI! Decorate your very own flowerpot before planting special seed paper to grow vital and wonderful wildflowers. These flowers will give bees and other pollinators food reserves before the winter months! Booking Essential. |
09/09/2026 3:30pm | 09/09/2026 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Family History Talk with NIFHS |
The North of Ireland Family History Society presents a talk on family history which will help you get started with your family history journey. Providing information on family history resources and the use of DNA in family history, this talk offers practical tips and networking opportunities with fellow history enthusiasts. This fascinating talk will help to bring family history to life and is the perfect way to kick start your European Heritage Open Day activities. t: 028 9050 9150 |
10/09/2026 11:30am | 10/09/2026 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Belfast Central Library Tour for European Heritage Open Day |
Join us for a tour of this magnificent Victorian building. Hear about the history and architecture and get a chance to see behind the scenes. |
12/09/2026 10:30am | 12/09/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| My Belfast Window: a workshop by artist Shauna Fox |
"My Belfast Window", a workshop delivered by local artist Shauna Fox which is designed for children and families from multicultural backgrounds. The session welcomes all those who wish to celebrate and learn about the cultural diversity that shapes Belfast. Suitable for ages 5 – 12. All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Booking essential. |
12/09/2026 10:30am | 12/09/2026 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Green Sprouts Eco Club |
Join us in Belfast Central Library for our new Green Sprouts Eco Club! Explore different ways to help the environment through renewable energy, or planting for biodiversity. Fun and environmentally friendly activities every month. Suitable for ages 8 - 11. |
15/09/2026 3:30pm | 15/09/2026 4:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go Green with Libraries NI and The Conservation Volunteers |
Help us plant a wildflower garden for the first floor balcony! The Conservation Volunteers are here with their expertise to help us create a beautiful wildflower garden to encourage urban bio-diversity. |
16/09/2026 11:00am | 16/09/2026 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Go Green with Libraries NI and the Conservation Volunteers |
We're making a mini-beast paradise for the first floor balcony. Join us to make bee baths and homes for insects this week. |
23/09/2026 11:00am | 23/09/2026 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Storytelling Circle featuring Janice Witherspoon |
Janice Witherspoon has been working as a professional storyteller for more than 10 years. Entertaining audiences of all ages across Scotland, England and now back in her native Co. Antrim, Janice has a wide repertoire of legends and lore of these islands. As a former gardener, Janice loves to tell seasonal and environmental tales. |
24/09/2026 1:30pm | 24/09/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Macmillan Coffee Morning |
Join us for a welcoming morning of tea, coffee, friendship and chat while supporting a great cause. Enjoy good company and help raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support. |
25/09/2026 10:00am | 25/09/2026 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Ulster Wildlife talk on Northern Ireland's Marine World |
Join Ulster Wildlife in Belfast Central Library for a talk and interactive workshop all about Northern Ireland's Marine world. Discover the diversity and uniqueness of our marine environment, improve your species identification skills and hear all about exciting citizen science project ShoreNI. |
17/10/2026 11:00am | 17/10/2026 12 noon | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Love Your Library Community Board |
What makes the library so special? Is it the out-of-print book tucked away on a bottom shelf? The friendly faces at your favourite weekly event? Or maybe the magic of Storytime and Rhythm & Rhyme? Whatever your favourite thing about the library is, Book Week is your chance to shout out your local library. We are launching our Community Board in Belfast Central Library and we want to hear your opinion. Whether you're a new member or you've been coming for fifty years, drop in during Book Week and add your voice to our board. |
19/10/2026 9:00am | 24/10/2026 5:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Teddy Bears' Picnic |
Bring your favourite stuffed animal friend to the library and join us for a magical Teddy Bears' Picnic at Belfast Central Library. Bring your picnic blanket and gather together in our Children's Area for an enchanting afternoon of stories, songs, and play. Afterwards, join us for a picnic between the bookshelves. This is the perfect way to spark a love of reading, so grab your plush pals and come down to the library! |
21/10/2026 2:30pm | 21/10/2026 3:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Queens of Crime Fiction: Linda Hagan and Eirin Thompson |
Join us in Belfast Central Library to meet the authors of two of the most popular types of crime fiction. Linda Hagan's police procedurals are set in Belfast and follow DCI Gawn Girvan as she solves crime in Belfast. Eirin Thompson focusses on psychological crime with her novels I Know I Saw Her and Closing In. This will be a fascinating chat between the authors about their books, their writing process and their route to publishing. |
22/10/2026 2:00pm | 22/10/2026 3:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Book Week Quiz Night |
Do you know your way around a bookshelf? Prove it at our upcoming Library Quiz! Whether you're a fantasy fanatic, a mystery maestro, or a classics champion, come alone or bring a team to battle it out in our Book Week trivia night. Compete for prizes and bragging rights, meet other book-lovers, and enjoy an evening of head-scratching fun! |
22/10/2026 6:30pm | 22/10/2026 7:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Belfast Central Library Fine Book Room Tour |
Join us during Book Week NI and get a chance to visit the Fine Book Room of Belfast Central Library to see some of the oldest, rarest, and most beautiful books in our collection. |
24/10/2026 11:30am | 24/10/2026 12:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Silent Reading Club |
Step into the quiet of a historic building for a new kind of book group at our Silent Reading Club! Whether you're trying to finish a page-turner or just want a peaceful space to relax, bring your current read and settle into uninterrupted reading time surrounded by stunning architecture and great company. After an hour, break out into conversation with your fellow attendees (or just keep reading!). Perfect for introverts and extroverts alike, enjoy the cosy ambiance of solo reading paired with the social aspect of conversation with other readers. You can also enjoy free tea, coffee, and refreshments while you read and chat. |
24/10/2026 12:30pm | 24/10/2026 1:30pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
| Meet the Authors: Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen |
Meet the authors of the Aisling books, an Irish publishing sensation with over 400,000 copies sold. Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen will chat about their fantastic new novel Our Deadly Summer and the beloved Aisling series. |
24/10/2026 2:00pm | 24/10/2026 3:00pm | See event details to check if booking is essential (phone/email). Otherwise, if the event is not virtual (via Zoom) then simply call into the library at the time of the event. |
