Overview
Trinity College Library is the largest library in Ireland and a legal‑deposit institution that receives a copy of every book published in the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom. Its most recognisable part, the Old Library, was built between 1712 and 1732 and today draws millions of tourists to its vaulted Long Room, a 65‑metre gallery lined with 200,000 historic volumes. The library is also home to Ireland’s national harp – the Brian Boru harp – the 1916 Proclamation, and, of course, the illuminated 9th‑century manuscript the Book of Kells.
History
Founded alongside Trinity College in 1592, the library’s collection began to grow immediately. In 1661 Henry Jones presented the college with the Book of Kells, cementing the library’s reputation as a repository of Irish cultural heritage. The Old Library’s construction, overseen by architect Thomas Burgh, took twenty years and was completed in 1732, its limestone façade quarried from Palmerstown. Legal‑deposit rights were granted in 1801, making the library the only Irish institution also entitled to receive copies of UK publications.
The Long Room was originally a single‑storey space; a raised roof and upper gallery were added in 1860 to accommodate the ever‑expanding collection. Marble busts of philosophers, writers and benefactors – originally 14 by Peter Scheemakers – line the central aisle, with four new busts of female scholars (Rosalind Franklin, Ada Lovelace, Augusta Gregory, Mary Wollstonecraft) unveiled in 2020, the first such additions in over a century.
A major €90 million restoration, launched in 2022, modernised climate control and fire‑protection systems, inspired in part by the 2019 Notre‑Dame fire. In 2023 a luminous globe sculpture titled “Gaia” by Luke Jerram was installed, adding a contemporary focal point to the historic space.
What to See & Do
- The Book of Kells – View a rotating selection of pages from this 800‑AD illuminated Gospel. The exhibition includes interactive displays that explain the manuscript’s creation, symbolism and conservation.
- The Long Room – Walk the 65‑metre hall, admire the barrel‑vaulted ceiling, and take in the 200,000 early books that line the oak shelves. Look up to see the marble busts of Jonathan Swift, Aristotle and the four new female scholars.
- Brian Boru Harp – The oldest surviving Gaelic harp, dating from the 15th century, is displayed in a glass case within the Long Room.
- 1916 Proclamation – One of the few surviving copies of the Irish Republic’s declaration is housed alongside the harp.
- Gaia Globe – The illuminated globe sculpture offers a striking modern contrast to the historic surroundings.
- Campus Walks – The surrounding Trinity grounds, including the Campanile (1853) and Fellows’ Square, are free to explore and provide excellent photo opportunities.
Getting There
The library sits on College Green in the centre of Dublin, a short walk from Grafton Street, Temple Bar and the Luas Green Line (Dawson or Westmoreland stops). Bus routes 46A, 145 and 145A also stop nearby. Parking in the immediate area is limited, so most visitors use public transport or walk from other city attractions.
Practical Information
Opening hours
| Season | Mon‑Sat | Sun |
|---|---|---|
| May – Sept | 8:30 am – 5:00 pm | 9:30 am – 5:00 pm |
| Oct – Apr | 9:30 am – 5:00 pm | 12:00 pm – 4:30 pm |
Admission fees (2026 prices) – all tickets are sold online via the official visitor portal.
| Ticket type | Price (EUR) | What’s included |
|---|---|---|
| Book of Kells Experience (self‑guided) | 25.5 | Entry to Old Library, Book of Kells exhibition, free audio guide |
| Guided Book of Kells Experience | 65.0 | Small‑group guided tour, all exhibition areas |
| Trinity Trails (official campus walk) | 17.0 | 45‑minute student‑led walking tour (does not include Book of Kells) |
| Student‑led tour (May‑Sept) | 33.5 | 30‑minute guided tour, Old Library, Book of Kells |
| Admission to Old Library & Book of Kells (no tour) | 21.5 | Entry to both attractions |
Contact
- Phone: +353 1 896 1000
- Website: Trinity College Library
Accessibility – The Old Library and Book of Kells exhibition are wheelchair‑accessible, with ramps and lifts to the Long Room gallery. Audio guides are available for visitors with hearing impairments.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the College Green area, consider visiting other Dublin highlights within easy walking distance:
- Abbey Theatre – Ireland’s national theatre, famous for its productions of Irish playwrights.
- Arthur Guinness Heritage Bar – A historic pub offering a glimpse into Dublin’s brewing past.
- Aviva Stadium – Modern sporting arena hosting rugby, football and concerts.
- Balbriggan – A short train ride north to a coastal town with a beach and promenade.
- Blessington Street Basin – A historic Victorian reservoir turned public park, ideal for a quiet stroll.
Awards
In 2025 Trinity College Library was ranked first in the global literary‑tourism initiative “1000 Libraries” and was voted Europe’s Leading Academic Tourist Attraction at the World Travel Awards 2025.