Celebrate Culture Night 2026 at the NLI

To mark this occasion the National Library of Ireland has digitised materials from the Yeats Occult Papers collection relating to A Vision, including a draft manuscript of the book itself. Dense, often abstract and also grounded in symbolism from across Yeats' other writings A Vision has presented a challenge to Yeats scholars for decades, but has also provided crucial context to the poet's attitudes towards the changing times in which he lived. With these newly digitised materials further avenues of exploration of this text are opened to researchers across the world. 
 

As part of this launch the NLI will be running events aimed at demystifying A Vision and the system of belief it contains, with a continuation of the Yeats Exhibition Journey To A Vision tours and three events presented by A Vision expert Neil Mann focused on breaking down and understanding this often overlooked side of the Nobel Prize winning poet. 

Evening Opening at the National Library of Ireland: Explore our Main Building, 5pm-9pm

Our doors will be open from 5pm to 9pm, and everyone is welcome.

• From 5pm, explore the hall to view the Lego model of the library or visit our William Butler Yeats exhibition.
• From 6pm to 9pm, step into the Reading Room and take in its stunning surroundings.
• Starting at 7:15pm, enjoy a live performance by the St. Mary’s College Singers, led by Director Maria Stanley. 

No booking is required to visit the Reading Room or attend the performance. 

Director's Tour of the National Library, 6pm-7pm

Join Dr Audrey Whitty, Director of the National Library of Ireland, as she opens Culture Night 2026 with a special guided tour of our historic Victorian building on Kildare Street.

Discover the story of the Library’s architecture, visit the iconic Reading Room, and explore our deep connections with some of Ireland’s greatest writers and thinkers. The tour also includes visits to the Richard Hayes Room and the Art Room, offering a unique opportunity to experience spaces not usually explored in depth.

Free entry, but booking is required.