Céad Míle Fáilte
A hundred thousand welcomes to the Irish Studies Workshop & Library. We are privileged to hold the largest independent collection of books, periodicals and other publications relevant to Irish Studies in Britain. Our unique collection, accumulated over many decades, includes reference materials on a vast range of topics relevant to Irish history, culture, society, politics, flora, fauna and much more.
In addition to literary resources, the library provides a uniquely creative and reflective space where you can immerse yourself in Irish culture and practice. So whether you are a researcher, writer, artist, have Irish heritage or simply someone who is passionate or curious about Ireland, come and visit us. As we are a reference library only, all visits must be prebooked.
Irish Worksop story
The genesis of our book collection may be traced back to 1983. It was then that Dr Nessan Danaher launched the Irish Studies Workshop in Leicester. This initiative was dedicated to the promotion of Irish culture through literature, dance, music and language. Conferences and courses related to Irish Studies also formed part of the organisation's activities. The collection was stored for several years by the Sacred Heart Church. In late 2017, discussions began with the Emerald Centre to relaunch the Irish Studies Workshop. With the generous support of the Emerald Centre, a cabin was purchased and fitted as the library and workshop.
The Irish Studies Workshop & Library was officially opened in August 2018. Since then, the library has provided numerous texts and other materials to a range of readers on a diverse range of topics related to Irish culture. We owe an immense debt of gratitude to the project founder, Dr Nessan Danaher for bequeathing the magnificent collection of books and other materials to the library.