Trinity College Dublin: is a visit to the Old Library worthwhile despite its current restoration?

The Old Library of Trinity College, Dublin - © Andres Conema

It’s common knowledge that Trinity College University, Dublin, is currently restoring its Old Library. This titanic project, scheduled to take 3 years to complete, will change things somewhat for visitors. But what is it really? Is a visit to the Old Library worthwhile, despite the work in progress? We’ve tested it for you.

The Old Library, currently undergoing a major transformation

A library still open to visitors, but with a different experience…

The Book of Kells Experience

Rest assured: Trinity College’s Old Library is still open to visitors. There’s also access to the Long Room, with its Harry Potter charm, and even a chance to discover the Book of Kells, through a brand-new attraction: the Book of Kells Experience.

But it’s important to know that, in view of the restoration work being carried out on the premises, the library offers a very different kind of visit. In fact, the Long Room exhibits only 10% of its collection of antiquarian books, i.e. almost 18,000 works. A sizeable figure nonetheless, revealing a library partially depopulated of its volumes.

But rest assured: the charm is still there. The Long Room is simply magnificent, and the premises are always charged with the same aura. This is where centuries of history and knowledge are concentrated. The walls seem impregnated with it, even if not all the shelves are full.

The Gaïa installation in Trinity College’s Long Room

Of particular note, however, is the temporary presence of a modern installation in the Long Room, christened Gaïa. At the end of the bookcase, a representation of planet Earth hangs from the ceiling. Gigantic and luminous, this work of art aims to remind visitors of the beauty of our planet. The installation is in stark contrast to the historic beauty of the Long Room, but doesn’t detract from the visit.

What’s more, the Book of Kells Experience offers another glimpse of the Library’s treasures. You’ll have the opportunity to discover the medieval manuscript through a fascinating interactive exhibition… and you’ll even have the chance to admire the original book in its display case!

So don’t hesitate: the Vieille Bibliothèque has lost none of its splendor. Although it’s still under construction, it’s sure to be a source of discovery and wonder!