Book Week NI: a look back at the vital role libraries play in Newtownabbey

As residents celebrate Book Week NI 2023 (October 16-October 22), we took a look back through the Newtownabbey Times archive at some of the events held at libraries across the borough over the years.

Whether you use your local library to access books and resources, attend job fairs, classes such as Rhythm and Rhyme, or knitting groups, libraries play a vital role in the community.

Check out these photographs from over the years.

Hopefully they bring back some happy memories.

13. Love your library

Rathfern Library's branch manager Maureen Weir presented book tokens to King's Park Primary School's Hope Hawthrone, Natalya Whittla and Ryan Watson Dodds after they won a competition about endangered animals in 2007. Photo: Freddie Parkinson

14. Love your library

Miss Rachel Managh's P4 class of King's Park Primary School all enjoyed their visit to Rathfern Library in 2007 when Maureen Weir, Branch Manager, read some of their most popular books. Photo: Freddie Parkinson

15. Love your library

Sisters, Lauren, Rachel and Michelle have fun at an art and craft workshop at Rathcoole Library in 2013. Photo: Phillip Byrne

16. Love your library

Aimee Mercer (7) at the art club in Rathcoole Library in 2008. Photo: Freddie Parkinson

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