Trinity College Library
Leinster
Trinity College Library, the main library of Trinity College Dublin, is Ireland's largest and most significant library, serving as both a legal deposit library for Ireland and the UK. Its centerpiece is The Old Library, constructed in the 18th century, which houses the iconic Long Room - a spectacular barrel-vaulted chamber lined with thousands of rare and early volumes. The library is renowned worldwide for its collection of ancient manuscripts, including the celebrated Book of Kells, an 8th-century illuminated manuscript brought to the college in 1661. The Old Library also safeguards the Brian Boru harp, a national symbol of Ireland, and a copy of the 1916 Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Beyond the Old Library, the complex includes several specialized libraries such as the Eavan Boland Library, Lecky Library, and James Ussher Library, each contributing to the rich academic environment. The library’s architecture, historical artifacts, and vast collections make it a major cultural and tourist attraction in Dublin, showcasing Ireland's literary heritage and scholarly tradition.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book tickets for the Book of Kells exhibition in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Students and academic members have access to additional library facilities. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students. The library is accessible via public transport and offers guided tours to enrich the visitor experience.
Interesting facts
- •The Long Room contains approximately 200,000 of the library's oldest books.
- •The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript created by Celtic monks around 800 AD.
- •The Brian Boru harp housed in the library is one of only three surviving medieval Gaelic harps.
- •The library building was constructed using limestone quarried from Palmerstown, about 8 km west of Dublin.
- •The display of the Book of Kells pages is regularly rotated, with many pages not seen publicly for decades unveiled in recent years.
History
Founded alongside Trinity College in 1592, the library's collection grew significantly when Henry Jones donated the Book of Kells in 1661.
Construction of the Old Library began in 1712, completing in 1732, designed by Thomas Burgh.
Over the centuries, the library expanded with new buildings and collections, including the addition of the Brian Boru harp in the 18th century.
The library has evolved to include modern facilities while preserving its historic heritage and continues to serve as a key legal deposit library for Ireland and the UK.
Place Guide
The Long Room18th century
A magnificent 65-meter-long barrel-vaulted chamber lined with 200,000 of the library’s oldest books on dark oak shelves. It is one of the most iconic and photogenic interiors in Ireland, showcasing the grandeur of 18th-century library architecture.
The Book of Kells Exhibitioncirca 800 AD
A dedicated exhibition space displaying one of the four volumes of the Book of Kells, an 8th-century illuminated manuscript famed for its intricate artistry and historical significance.
Brian Boru Harp15th century
The oldest surviving medieval Gaelic harp and national symbol of Ireland, housed permanently in the Old Library. It dates back to the 15th century and is a treasured cultural artifact.
Contact
Phone: (01) 896 1000
