Library And Research Enquiries

LIBRARY ENQUIRIES

The Museum's Research Library contains a range of resources in relation to the Museum's main areas of interest.

(1)   Textiles and art, especially in relation to linen.
(2)   Irish history, particularly the history of Ulster, Lisburn and the Lagan Valley

These resources include:

• Some two thousand books and approx. 20 journal runs;
• A collection of  19^th and 20^th century Ordnance Survey maps for the district;
• Original copies of  the two local newspapers, Lisburn Herald and Lisburn Standard for many years from the 1890s until the 1950s (also a complete microfilm run for the Lisburn Standard from which copies can be printed);
• Microfilm copies of the 1901 census schedules for Lisburn and surrounding district;
• A collection of audio and video tapes relating to the Museum's areas of interest.
  
  
• LIRA Special Library Collection
  The library collection of the former Lambeg Industrial Research Association, which closed in 1993, is now located at the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum.  LIRA was originally founded in 1919 as the Linen Industry Research Association and the library collection reflects its research work into a range of aspects of flax and linen production.  The Library comprises over six thousand books, journals and research reports.  The majority of the material was published between 1900 - 1970; there are also some rare books, pamphlets and journals dating from the 18^th century.
  
  Access to both facilities is by appointment in advance, during weekdays, 9.30am - 4.30pm.  There are no lending facilities. A photocopying service is possible, subject to the decision of the staff officer in charge.  There is no charge for use of the study facilities; however, photocopying is chargeable.
  
  General enquiries may be made by letter, telephone or email, by those unable to visit the Museum in person.
  
  
• Ongoing collecting
  The Museum continues to add to its library holdings through donation and purchase of relevant material. If you think you have such material, please contact us by telephone or by email to arrange for an appointment for further details please click on library@lisburn.gov.uk or 'Contacts'.