‘Death positive’ hub now available at Coleraine Library

A ‘Death Positive Library’ has been launched in Coleraine as part of ongoing work between the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, Libraries NI, and Compassionate Communities NI to help people through death and grief.

The launch, which took place in the town’s library on Tuesday 5 May during Dying Matters Week, introduced a specially chosen collection of resources designed to open conversations around end-of-life care, loss, and bereavement. The initiative has transformed the local library into a compassionate hub where residents can find the words and support needed to discuss death openly and without stigma.

Research indicates that over 70% of people avoid talking about death, which could lead to increased social isolation for those living with advanced illness or grieving a loved one.

The Death Positive Library initiative challenges this by providing:

• Selected books for all ages, including children’s titles and easy-read formats, covering topics from palliative care to the emotional journey of grief.
• Practical guidance and resources on advance care planning to help individuals plan ahead and share their future wishes.

The launch served as a key milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Northern Trust, Libraries NI, and Compassionate Communities NI.

Sharon Williams, Project Manager at Compassionate Communities NI, said:

“We know that talking about death doesn’t make it happen, but it does make it easier to deal with when the time comes. By bringing these resources into the heart of Coleraine, we’re providing a bridge for families to start those difficult but essential conversations; and helped people to find the confidence to offer emotional and practical support. With the addition of Coleraine Library, there are now 15 Death Positive Libraries in Northern Ireland.”

Fiona Gilmour, representing the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, added: “Most care doesn’t happen in hospitals – it happens at home among family, friends and neighbours. We want to help communities feel confident in caring for the people around them. That starts with making talking about death and grief feel more normal and less frightening. A Death Positive Library provides trusted resources around coping with serious illness, dying and bereavement. You will find books and practical guides on a range of themes including what to expect, planning ahead, involving children, or simply starting important conversations. We hope the new Death Positive Library will help the local community feel more able to support each other, especially in the hardest of times.”

Kendra Reynolds, Libraries NI Area Manager, noted: “Libraries NI provides free access to books and resources that support people in many aspects of everyday life. The Death Positive Library collection is part of that offer, bringing together a range of titles that customers can explore at their own pace within the library or at home.”

Dying Matters Awareness Week 2026 takes place from May 4 – 10, themed around ‘let’s talk about death and dying’.

To access online resources about bereavement visit www.compassionatecommunitiesni.com or www.northerntrust.hscni.net

8th May 2026