Marsh's Library
Built in 1701 by Archbishop Narcissus Marsh (1638-1713), it is the oldest public library in Ireland. Designed by Sir William Robinson, the library contains some 25,000 volumes, chiefly on theology, medicine, ancient history, music, law, travel, classical literature and maps. There are 250 volumes of manuscripts and a number of early printed books.
The interior of the library consists of beautiful dark oak bookcases each with carved and lettered gables and topped by a mitre. The three elegant wired alcoves or 'cages' where readers were locked in with rare books remains unchanged since it was built. It is a magnificent example of a 17th century scholar's library. Also contained in Marsh's Library is the Delmas Conservation Bindery which restores and repairs rare books and manuscripts, as well as prints, drawings, watercolours and maps, to the highest international standards.
Location. St Patrick’s Close, Dublin 8. (Beside St Patrick’s Cathedral).
Phone. +353 1 535984
Fax. +353 1 4532037
Opening Hours. (Oct – March) Monday - Friday 9.30am - 4.00pm, closed Saturdays, open Sundays 10.00am - 4.45pm. (April – Sept). 9.30am - 4.45pm each day.
