In addition to carrying out primary research on our collection, Lisburn, and the Irish linen industry, we offer a dedicated research service to the public through our Research Officer, Dr James Frazer. If you have any questions or queries related to these topics, please do not hesitate to get in touch. This service is free of charge.
We also welcome historians, researchers, or anyone that’s just curious about the past to explore our two libraries. Each library offers distinct resources to support your research.
Research Library
The Research Library offers a rich collection of literature and resources focused on textiles, art, and Irish history. It holds over 2,000 books and 20 academic journals, with a special emphasis on linen, Ulster, and the Lagan Valley.
Beyond literature, the library contains Ordnance Survey maps, plans, and estate maps of the locality. Original copies of two local newspapers, the Lisburn Standard and Lisburn Herald, are also available to view. These span from the late 19th to the mid-20th centuries, offering a valuable snapshot of Lisburn in bygone days.
This extensive range of resources makes our Research Library a key place to explore the cultural and historical heritage of the area and Ireland’s linen industry.
LIRA Library
The LIRA Library is an essential resource for anyone interested in textile production, particularly flax and linen. Established in 1919 at Glenmore near Lambeg, Lisburn, the Linen Industry Research Association (LIRA) was created to improve and expand the Irish linen industry after its decline following the First World War. In 1970, reflecting a broader research focus, it was renamed the Lambeg Industrial Research Association.
LIRA closed in 1993, but its extensive library of over 6,000 books, journals, and research reports found a new home at the Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum. Most materials date from 1900 to 1970, but the collection also includes rare books from the 18th century, offering valuable insights into the rich history and science of flax and linen production in Ireland and further afield.
Accessing our libraries
Our libraries are available to view by appointment between Monday and Friday, 9:30am to 5pm. There is no charge to use the libraries, but there is a fee for photocopying services. We do not offer any lending facilities; all materials must be used on-site.
Contact Dr James Frazer to book your research visit. If visiting in person isn’t possible, you can still reach out by making a general enquiry.
Ongoing collecting
We continue to add to our library holdings through donations and purchases of relevant material. If you have books, documents, or other materials that you believe would enhance our collections, we would love to hear from you. Donating is a wonderful way to support our libraries and help others access valuable information.
