Pearse Street Library

Dublin City’s Pearse Street Library was built in 1909 with the financial support of American millionaire Andrew Carnegie. Today it features a public library downstairs and a special study library upstairs. It is a place where visitors can trace their family trees or look up the history of their area. Another feature is the stone head of Admiral Horatio Nelson; Nelson’s Pillar on O’Connell Street was blown up in 1966, and the head of the statue was saved.

The Irish Collection is a major information source on Irish local studies and includes material by Irish authors and about Irish language, genealogy and family history. Meanwhile, the City Archives, dating from the 12th century, now have a permanent home in the newly refurbished and extended building.

To view the historical documents in the study library, it is advised that you make an appointment in advance, as reading places are limited.

The full service library caters for serious students and researchers as well as the general public. Services include: self-service printing, scanning, photocopying, community information, history group, adult book club, and film club. Visitors can view and participate in exhibitions, lectures, workshops, demonstrations, language exchange, and class visits. You will find audio books for adults and children on CD and MP3, DVDs, children's library activities, storytelling, toddler group, and free WiFi.