Libraries
Libraries across Northern Ireland offer a wide range of free services including the loan of books and magazines, local history resources, eBooks, eMagazines, eAudiobooks, eNewspapers, computer use, internet access and Wi-Fi. Libraries have a large selection of books for all ages, including large print books and audio books.
Join the library
Becoming a library member is free and open to everyone. You can join from birth and members can borrow up to nine items at any one time. Your library card allows you to borrow from and return to any Northern Ireland library or mobile library stop.
You can join online or in any Northern Ireland public library.
Find your local library
Online books, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers
Libraries NI gives free access to a wide range of digital content, available anytime, anywhere.
eBooks and eAudiobooks
Enjoy a diverse collection of titles, from bestselling fiction to non-fiction, all available to borrow for free. Loans automatically run out at the end of the lending period, so there’s no need to worry about returns.
eMagazines
Browse a variety of magazines covering topics like cookery, technology, health, and more. New editions are added regularly, so you’ll always have something fresh to read.
eNewspapers
Stay informed with access to newspapers from around the world in multiple languages.
Events and courses
Discover something new in your local library. Events and courses for people of all ages are held regularly in local libraries. These include talks, workshops, exhibitions, reading groups and computer courses.
Find out about events and courses at a library near you by entering your postcode on the following web page:
Digital Hubs
Computers with enhanced privacy features are available in public libraries across Northern Ireland offering all members of the community the room and resources to access virtual meeting spaces. These are situated, where possible, in a quiet corner or space within the library and are equipped with:
- webcam
- headset (users are also free to plug their own headset in if preferred)
- conferencing software: Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Webex and Zoom
- acoustic screen/s
- privacy monitor
Students
Libraries are welcoming and comfortable venues for studying, computer use and socialising with friends. As a library member you can:
- read and borrow books including curriculum support material
- access free Wi-Fi and use library computers
- access study space to read, revise or complete assignments
- access in library digital resources such as Access to Research
- access the Ulster University Library through the Civic Access Scheme
- access trusted health information for many of the issues that students face
- take part in social activities, all for free
- view student resources
Reading groups
Reading groups are held for adults, teenagers and children.
Rhythm and Rhyme
Parents and carers have the opportunity to enjoy nursery rhymes, stories and songs with babies and toddlers up to four years old.
Find a Rhythm and Rhyme event near you
Computer basics in small simple steps
The 'Got IT?' free course takes you through the basics of computers in small, simple steps. It is divided into three parts:
- introduction to computers
- introduction to the internet
- introduction to email
Each session lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. Library staff will be on hand to get you started, explaining the names and breaking down the jargon one piece at a time. You must be a library member to take part.
Go ON computer training session
This is a free session for people who want to find out more about technology and computers in a relaxed environment, at their own pace. It helps people improve their computer skills by offering help to do lots of everyday tasks on the computer. You must be a library member to take part.
Heritage services
Libraries NI has a wide range of resources for historians, researchers, genealogists, students and those with an interest in cultural and community life, past or present. These include:
- books
- newspapers and journals
- maps
- photographs
- archives and special collections
Library members can also take advantage of a variety of free in-library resources including film archive services such as BFI Replay, BBC Rewind and Northern Ireland Screen Digital Film Archive. You can also access a vast collection of academic articles, journals and books through JSTOR and Access to Research.
Heritage events take place regularly including talks, exhibitions, workshops and book launches.
Free period products
If you or someone you know needs period products, you can get them for free in public libraries (including mobile libraries) across Northern Ireland.
Further information is available at: