With over 8 million items in its collection, the National Library is home to the most comprehensive compilation of Irish documentary material in the world. From music, periodicals and photographs to maps, manuscripts and genealogical material, the Library offers and provides free access to an invaluable representation of Irish heritage.

Explore the poetry and legacy of Ireland’s greatest poet in the award-winning exhibition Yeats: The Life and Works of William Butler Yeats. The Discover Your National Library exhibition showcases some of the wonderful items from its collection, including rare books, manuscripts, maps, photographs and ephemeral items. Kids of all ages will love the new exhibition Tall Tales and Deadly Drawings featuring Irish children’s books and amazing illustrations from the Library’s collection of drawings.

Free public tours of the Yeats exhibition take place on Wednesdays at 1pm and Saturdays at 11am and 3pm. Tours of the Discover exhibition take place on Tuesdays at 2.30pm. A guided tour celebrating the history and heritage of the Library takes place each Saturday at 2.30pm. No booking is required.
 

Particles of the Past Exhibition

To celebrate Dublin City of Science 2012, a new interactive multimedia exhibition at the National Library  will showcase a fascinating selection of science related gems from the National Library collections. With topics ranging from 17th century home remedies collected by Robert Boyle to the engineering feat of Ardnacrusha, from a handwritten journal recording Captain Cook’s second voyage to early photography, the exhibition promises to be as eclectic as it is interesting.

Facilities:
Exhibitions, genealogy advisory service, reading rooms, café, wheelchair accessible. Group bookings for tours available.

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