On August 5, 2025, a storytelling event featuring drag queens, organized by the EastSide Partnership, faced significant backlash, leading to protests outside the library.

The event, which aimed to promote inclusivity, was cut short due to the demonstrations, with videos emerging of the performers being escorted from the venue by police.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland reported their attendance at the protests, noting they escorted two individuals from the venue but recorded no offences.

Belfast Green councillor Anthony Flynn defended the event, asserting that the protests were rooted in intolerance and highlighted the safety and joy of the storytelling sessions.

EastSide Partnership emphasized that the event is part of their long-standing commitment to inclusivity, having received positive feedback over the years.

The organizers stressed their dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all attendees, addressing safety concerns effectively during the event.

Mulholland further criticized the government's Anti-Poverty Strategy as lacking ambition, highlighting the struggles many families face with substandard housing.

TUV MLA Timothy Gaston raised concerns about the appropriateness of using Libraries NI for such events, linking drag performances to adult entertainment.

Lyons echoed these sentiments, arguing that the event compromised the perception of public libraries as inclusive spaces and urged Libraries NI to adhere to its policies.

Footage from the protests illustrated community opposition to the storytelling event, reflecting broader societal debates about inclusivity and appropriateness.

Criticism arose from Alliance MLA Sian Mulholland, who argued that Communities Minister Gordon Lyons should focus on pressing issues like child poverty and inadequate housing instead of the drag queen event.

The festival organizers maintained that their programming reflects community interests and promotes diversity, despite the controversy surrounding the event.