Bookcited!: A Libraries NI podcast for all things library
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Welcome to Bookcited!, your go-to podcast for all things library! Join us each week as we delve into the vibrant world of books, authors and the stories that shape our lives. From in-depth discussions on the latest literary trends and book to screen...
Location:
United Kingdom
Genres:
Arts & Culture Podcasts
Description:
Welcome to Bookcited!, your go-to podcast for all things library! Join us each week as we delve into the vibrant world of books, authors and the stories that shape our lives. From in-depth discussions on the latest literary trends and book to screen adaptions to interviews with standout authors, Bookcited! is where literature comes alive. In each episode our passionate library staff tackle a range of topics, spotlight hidden gems, and engage with cherished classics – all while enjoying relaxed and insightful conversations with guests. Whether you’re an avid reader or just beginning your literary journey, Bookcited! offers a welcoming space for everyone to connect and share their love for books. Tune in to discover new perspectives, expand your reading list, and join our community of fellow literary enthusiasts. Get ready to ignite your passion for reading – let’s get Bookcited! Music for the podcast is by Shane M.
Twitter:
@librariesni
Language:
English
Website:
https://www.librariesni.org.uk/
Episodes
Frank Cottrell-Boyce, multi award-winning children’s book author and screenwriter
4/24/2026
UK Children’s Laureate author Frank Cottrell Boyce joins Jillian and Sian to explore the National Year of Reading, the magic of stories and why books matter more than ever in a world of endless screen time.
Duration:00:25:41
Crime writer Ian Rankin
4/17/2026
Legendary crime writer Ian Rankin joins Jillian and Pete to explore the evolution of Rebus, the restless spirit of Edinburgh and the soundtrack that fuels his writing.
Duration:00:28:47
Michelle Griffin, professional editor and proofreader
4/10/2026
Michelle Griffin joins Jillian and Pete to discuss the art of editing and the unseen work that strengthens every story. An illuminating conversation that highlights the essential role of editors in modern publishing.
Duration:00:32:10
Book of the Month for April is ‘Our Evenings’ by novelist and writer Alan Hollinghurst
4/3/2026
Alan Hollinghurst joins Bookcited! to talk about April’s Book of the Month ‘Our Evenings’ and a lifetime of storytelling. A rich and generous conversation about identity, theatre and the making of a modern classic.
Duration:00:28:06
Writer and novelist Patrick Gale
3/27/2026
Patrick Gale joins Jillian and Pete to explore how the subtle interplay of inspiration and the long echo of family history have quietly shaped his forthcoming novel Love Lane.
Duration:00:27:43
Trish Bennett, multi-award-winning Irish writer and performer
3/20/2026
Jillian and Pete speak with Trish Bennett in a special World Poetry Day episode on the emotional honesty and sharp observation at the heart of her poems. A warm, revealing conversation that celebrates the art of capturing life in verse.
Duration:00:30:13
Few and Far Between with guest author Jan Carson
3/13/2026
Islands within an Island - Jan Carson joins Jillian and Pete to explore the stories, secrets and quiet enchantments woven through her new novel based around Lough Neagh, Few and Far Between.
Duration:00:29:46
Celebrating 100 episodes of Bookcited!
3/11/2026
Join us to celebrate the 100th episode of Bookcited! where Jillian and Pete are joined by Conor and Sian to look back over some of the most memorable interviews and think about hypothetical future guests – dead or alive!
Duration:00:27:58
Celebrating International Women's Day with author Sheena Wilkinson
3/6/2026
Jillian and Sian join local author Sheena Wilkinson as she reflects on writing, representation and the importance of telling women’s stories for International Women’s Day which takes place on 8 March.
Duration:00:24:13
Book of the Month is Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
3/4/2026
Jillian and Pete explore the quiet magic and bittersweet wonder of the bestselling Japanese novel Before the Coffee Gets Cold, Libraries NI’s March Book of the Month.
Duration:00:08:37
Best-selling author Chloe Dalton
2/27/2026
One hare. One woman. In the quiet of the countryside, Chloe Dalton found a story worth telling. Listen as she shares the moments that shaped her remarkable journey.
Duration:00:34:10
Writer Stephen Daly
2/20/2026
Stephen Daly on The Last Death Poet: a haunting Young Adult debut where Belfast’s political ghosts meet Irish mythology. Join us on the Libraries NI Bookcited podcast as we explore how identity, memory, and destiny collide in this gripping coming-of-age story.
Duration:00:25:05
Awards Season
2/13/2026
Awards Season is here! Jillian, Pete, and Conor dive into the books behind the films dominating the 2026 nominations. Discover the stories that leapt from page to screen and why they’re making waves on the red carpet.
Duration:00:20:38
Author Sheila O’Flanagan on life, books and women's stories
2/6/2026
Sheila O’Flanagan joins Jillian and Pete for a candid, uplifting exploration of life, books and the power of women’s stories. A thoughtful exchange that explores how stories evolve, connect and leave their mark on readers.
Duration:00:25:42
Book of the Month for February 2026 is Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
2/4/2026
For our Book of the Month this month, we dive into 'Tom Lake' by Anne Patchett, a tender, beautifully written novel about love, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves. Join us as we explore why this quiet masterpiece is the perfect winter read.
Duration:00:09:05
Andrea Mara – All Her Fault and more
1/30/2026
Bookcited meets Andrea Mara: from her award-winning thriller 'It Should Have Been You' to the Netflix hit 'All Her Fault', we explore crime, suspense and stories that keep you guessing.
Duration:00:25:30
The Books that Made Us Readers
1/23/2026
Jillian, Pete, and Sian look back on the books that made them readers: the stories that sparked a lifelong love of reading. Join us as we share the titles that opened doors to new worlds and shaped who we are today.
Duration:00:21:31
Books that Helped Us Through: Comfort Reads
1/16/2026
Blue Monday got you down? Jillian, Pete, and Conor share the ultimate comfort reads. The books that helped us through tough times and brought joy when we needed it most. Discover stories that soothe the soul and remind us why reading is the perfect antidote to winter blues.
Duration:00:23:12
Carlo Gebler - Literary Connections
1/9/2026
‘I write therefore I am’, Edna O’Brien, so Carlo Gebler has inherited his mother’s compulsion to write – and sits down with Jillian and Pete to talk about his own literary heritage as a writer, television director, and teacher. From the wilds of Fermanagh to the confines of prison walls Carlo tells how he has inspired and educated many.
Duration:00:28:01
James by Percival Everett - Our Book of the Month for January 2026
1/2/2026
Join Peter and Jillian with the first of the New Year selection for Book of the Month. Here they meet up to discuss James by Percival Everett – shortlisted for the Booker Prize in 2025, it is an alternative telling of the classic Huckleberry Finn told from the point of view of James, the runaway slave.
Duration:00:06:41