Celebrity Authors and Children's Reading Habits

Do celebrity authors help get children reading? Library Assistant Beverley Dempsey from Ballyclare Library joins Jillian and Pete to discuss the impact of famous names on children’s fiction. From reluctant readers to Junior Reading Groups, Beverley shares her insights on how star-studded book releases shape young readers’ choices—and whether they inspire a lifelong love of books.Music by Shane M

World Poetry Day with Gail McConnell

To mark World Poetry Day, Jillian and Pete sit down with award-winning poet Gail McConnell for a powerful discussion about the personal experiences that shape her work. From childhood trauma to parenthood, Gail reflects on how life influences poetry and shares her thoughts on Belfast’s growing poetry scene. Plus, don’t miss a special reading of her poem Untitled / Villanelle.Music by Shane M

Brian McGilloway: The One You Least Expect

Local author Brian McGilloway joins Jillian and Pete to talk about his writing journey, from his early works to his latest projects. He also gives an exclusive insight into his upcoming standalone novel, The One You Least Expect, set for publication in May 2025. Tune in for a fascinating chat about crime fiction, storytelling, and what’s next for this acclaimed author.Music by Shane M

Musical Connections 2 – Duke Special

In this episode, Jillian and Pete chat with the one and only Duke Special, a musician known for his distinctive style and genre-defying performances. He talks about the inspirations behind his work, from his love of home to the joys of deep research, and how embracing the unexpected has shaped his artistic journey. Expect fascinating insights, a touch of musical magic, and plenty of surprises along the way.Music by Shane M

Awards Season in Books

With the Oscars just days away, Jillian, Pete, and Conor are talking about the books that have made it to the big screen—both past and present. From classic adaptations to this year’s awards contenders, they’re diving into the stories that captured Hollywood’s attention! Tune in for some pre-Oscar book chat!Music by Shane M

Musical Connections 1 – Eilidh Patterson

Jillian and Pete sit down with Derry-born singer-songwriter Eilidh Patterson to explore the deep connection between music and storytelling. From navigating life’s ups and downs to finding solace in books, Eilidh shares how reading has shaped her songwriting and helped her through challenging times. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about creativity, resilience, and the power of words in both lyrics and literature.
Podcast music by Shane M

Celebrity Authors

Publishing powerhouses or just a passing trend? Jillian and Peter from the Stock Team are joined by Liza Thompson from Bloomsbury Publishing to explore how celebrity-penned books have shaped the industry. Love them or loathe them, they’re impossible to ignore!Podcast music by Shane M

Exclusive Interview: Martin Waddell – A Giant In Our Midst

Step into the world of Martin Waddell, the legendary children's author behind classics like Owl Babies and Farmer Duck. In an exclusive conversation with Jillian, Martin reflects on his remarkable career, the stories that shaped generations, and the awards that have cemented his legacy.From an early dream of football stardom to a harrowing experience that nearly cost him everything, Martin’s journey to becoming one of Ireland’s most cherished storytellers is nothing short of extraordinary. Now, from his historic home at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, he shares insights into his storytelling craft, the power of picture books, and his new artistic passion.Discover the life, the books, and the man behind them—Listen to the full podcast.

Book to Screen 6

In the series finale, Jillian from the Libraries NI Stock Team introduces Naomi from the Marketing Department and Alisha, Branch Manager of Antrim Library, as they take a closer look at Daisy Jones & The Six and Little Women. From rock 'n' roll drama to timeless literary charm, this episode wraps up the series with a mix of nostalgia and excitement.

Book to Screen 5

Join Jillian from the Libraries NI Stock Team as she sits down with Niall, Branch Manager from Warrenpoint Library, and Julie-Anne, Branch Manager from Carrickfergus Library, to discuss two gripping mysteries brought to life on screen: Dissolution by C.J. Sansom and Evil Under the Sun by Agatha Christie. Discover how these classics translate to film and TV!

Cosy Reads for Winter Nights

Snuggle up with our pick of heartwarming and comforting reads perfect for cold winter nights. Josephine, Branch Manager joins Jillian and Peter to share a selection of her recommendations of cosy reads to keep you company through the darkest months!

Reading Resolutions: Books To Look Forward To

New year, new reads! Area Manager Rebecca joins Jillian and Peter to share her top hits from last year and share her most anticipated releases for 2025

Best of the Best: 2024’s Biggest Hits

Ready to see what dominated the bestseller charts this year? We’re revealing the top-selling books that captured readers’ imaginations worldwide. Join Jillian and Peter along with Branch Manager Michael to find out which titles are worth adding to your must-read list before the year ends!

Holiday Reading Essentials: What We’re Reading and How to Access It

Looking for the perfect escape this Christmas? Jillian and Peter are joined by Senior Manager Conor as they share their top holiday reading picks and they will explain how easy it is to access eAudiobooks and eBooks on your devices.

The Library’s Top Page-Turners of the Year

We’re counting down the most-borrowed books of the year from our library shelves! District Manager Danielle joins Jillian and Peter to discover which books had everyone talking. Will your favourites make the list—or will you find your next great read?

Book to Screen 4

Peter from the Libraries NI Stock Department is joined by Daniel, District Officer for Mid and East Antrim Libraries, and Clare from the Admin Team, as they explore two very different adaptations: the sci-fi epic Dune by Frank Herbert and the surreal tale Poor Things by Alasdair Gray. Discover the magic (and the madness) of adapting these unique worlds for cinema!

An interview with author Sally Page

Join Jillian in an engaging interview with Sally Page, the best-selling author of The Book of Beginnings - this month's online reading pick! Listen to a fascinating discussion about her heartwarming novels, The Keeper of Stories and her latest masterpiece, The Secret of Flowers. A must-listen for book lovers!

Book to Screen 3

Jillian returns with Libraries NI colleagues Roger from Business Support Team and Peter from the Stock Department to discuss the layered storytelling of Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell and the psychological intrigue of The Talented Mr. Ripley by Patricia Highsmith. How do these complex narratives translate to the big screen? Tune in to find out.

Booker Special

In this episode, Jillian, Peter, and Conor, all from Libraries NI’s Stock Department, take on the Booker Prize—a literary phenomenon that can both inspire and intimidate. They unpack why some readers shy away from Booker-nominated books and share their own thoughts on these celebrated works.

Book to Screen 2 - Peter from Stock is joined by Library Assistants Nicola and Beverley

Peter from Stock Dept introduces Library Assistants Nicola from Carrickfergus and Beverley from Ballyclare about big screen adaptations of Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.

Book to Screen - Dene and Shane from Ballymena

Book to Screen episode 1 - Jillian introduces colleagues Dene and Shane from Ballymena as they discuss their thoughts on film adaptations of Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess and Bonfire of the Vanities by Tom Wolfe.

Bookcited! presents Colin Bateman, an author interview for Book Week NI 2024

Today’s Bookcited! podcast features the brilliant Colin Bateman! From the witty Divorcing Jack to his recent work in screenwriting, including Dead and Buried, Colin shares his journey and his unique perspective on storytelling. Tune in now for an entertaining and insightful conversation! #BookWeekNI #AuthorSpotlight #ColinBateman #LibrariesNI #DeadandBuried #Punk #Screenplays #DivorcingJack #Bangor