Capital Development Project

We are writing a new chapter in the history of the National Library of Ireland

The Capital Development Project is the most significant investment in the physical infrastructure of our building since its opening in 1890. This project will modernise our facilities to the highest standards while preserving the heritage and beauty of our Victorian-era design.

Our project entitled ‘Reimagining the National Library’ commenced in 2017. Significant building works have been completed across our Kildare Street campus. This includes the relocation of our prints, drawings and ephemera collections, as well as our published collections, which comprise over 350,000 items. These collections have been moved from six storeys of Victorian book stacks to a new, state-of-the-art onsite book repository.

This next phase will result in the complete renovation of our former book store into an exciting cultural experience – creating a major new public space for a new generation of visitors.

Project Goals and Benefits

This ambitious project is crucial for the future of the National Library. It aims to:

Provide safe storage for the national collections.
Create new spaces for hosting NLI exhibitions.
Offer learning and event spaces.
Establish a shop and café to enhance the visitor experience.
Ensure universal accessibility for all visitors.

Partnership and Commitment

This project is a collaborative effort involving the Office of Public Works and the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport.

Future Updates

Planning permission for this significant development was granted in January 2024. Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, approved the Preliminary Business Case under the Public Spending Code and Infrastructure Guidelines for the redevelopment of the NLI.

On 25, October, 2024 the Office of Public Works lodged a planning application, on behalf of the NLI, for works to our Main Reading Room. The application serves as an addition to the previously approved planning permission for the West Wing project. The application seeks permission for conservation work on the heritage-listed Reading Room, including floor repairs, refinishing, and redecoration of the room and ceiling, and enclosing the balcony to create a glass-fronted visitor gallery. This new addition aims to enhance the visitor experience, providing an opportunity for the public to view the historic Reading Room while maintaining sound insulation and preserving the quiet atmosphere for researchers.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the project progresses and as we continue to write this exciting new chapter for the NLI.