Library and Research Enquiries
As well as conducting primary research on our collection, Lisburn, and the Irish linen industry, we offer a dedicated research service through our Research Officer, Dr James Frazer. If you have a question or query, please get in touch. There is no charge for this service.
What resources do we offer?
Our Research Library contains a range of resources relating to:
(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 2,000 books and approximately 20 journal runs
- A collection of local Ordnance Survey maps for the 19th and 20th–centuries
- Original copies of two local newspapers, Lisburn Herald and Lisburn Standard, from the 1890s until the 1950s
- Microfilm copies of the 1901 census schedules for Lisburn and the surrounding district
- A collection of audio and video tapes relating to our areas of interest
If you want to access or discuss these materials, then please contact our Research Officer.
Accessing LIRA Special Collection
The library collection of the Linen Industry Research Association (LIRA), which closed in 1993, is held by the museum. LIRA was established 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. Most of the material was published between 1900 and 1970. The LIRA Library also includes rare books, pamphlets, and journals, some of which date from the 18th century.
Access to both libraries is by appointment in advance between Monday and Friday, 9:30am – 4pm.
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, but photocopying is chargeable. General enquiries may be made by letter, telephone or email, by those unable to visit the Museum in person.
Ongoing collecting
We continue to add to our library holdings through donations and purchases of relevant material. If you think you have such material, please contact us.