The National Library

The National Library of Ireland collects and preserves the documentary and intellectual records of Ireland.

The National Library is open, free of charge, to all those who wish to consult the collections for material not otherwise available through the public library service or an academic library. A Reader’s Ticket is necessary in order to consult most categories of material. 

The Library does not lend books and reading is done in the various reading rooms. There is also a copying service and it is possible to get photocopies, photographs, slides, or microfilm of most items in the collections. The Library has an ongoing programme of exhibitions.

The Genealogical Office, the Office of the Chief Herald in Kildare Street, and the National Photographic Archive in Temple Bar are all part of the National Library.

Complete your visit with delicious food in Café Joly. With an emphasis on local, seasonal, and artisan produce.  The National Library Photographic Archive, located on Meeting House Square in Temple Bar, houses a regular programme of exhibitions based on the Library’s photographic collections and a reading room.