Capital Development Project

The Capital Development Project is the most significant investment in our physical infrastructure since we first opened our doors in 1890. This work will modernise our facilities to the highest standards while preserving the heritage and beauty of our Victorian-era home.

Reimagining the National Library

‘Reimagining the National Library’ began in 2017. Since then, we have completed major building works across our Kildare Street campus. This includes the careful relocation of over 350,000 books, newspapers and periodicals from our published collections. These items were moved from six storeys of Victorian book stacks to a new, purpose-built onsite book repository.

We are now entering the next phase: a complete renovation of the former book store to create a vibrant new public space, designed to welcome a new generation of visitors.

Project Vision and Aims

We aim to reopen the historic West Wing of the NLI as part of a transformative project that will enhance access to our national collections and enrich the experience of every visitor. At its heart, this project is about conservation, accessibility, and public engagement.

Our strategic aims for the Capital Development Project are to:

Create new spaces for exhibitions and events.
Increase public access to the National Library’s collections, and programmes.
Offer flexible learning and event spaces for educational and cultural activities.
Establish a shop and café to enhance the visitor experience.
Ensure universal accessibility for all visitors.

This project supports our mission as Ireland’s national memory and secures the NLI’s place at the heart of the country’s cultural life.

Planning Permission Granted

West Wing Project
In January 2024, planning permission was granted for this landmark redevelopment. Approval was also received from our parent department, allowing us to move ahead with the next phase of work. This is a major milestone for the National Library and a vote of confidence in our vision for the future.

Reading Room Visitor Gallery
On the 11th August 2025 Dublin City Council granted planning permission for further works to our Main Reading Room. This application adds to the planning permission received in 2024 for the West Wing project. It includes important conservation works - such as floor repairs, services upgrades and enclosing the Reading Room balcony to create a glass-fronted visitor gallery. These improvements will allow the public to view the historic Reading Room.

Shared Partnership and Commitment

This project is delivered in partnership with the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport (DCCS), and the Office of Public Works (OPW). Sustainability is central to all aspects of planning and delivery

Recent Milestones

In May 2024, we opened the Joly Lecture Theatre, a fully accessible, state-of-the-art space for public events, lectures, and performances. It marks another step in our commitment to welcoming wider and more diverse audiences.

Looking ahead

We will continue to share updates as our project progresses. We are committed to creating a Library that preserves Ireland’s memory, welcomes everyone, and inspires generations to come.