Special Collections
Quintessence of Cruelty, Rev. Dr. Herring (1641)
Archives and Special Collections preserves and provides access to rare books, early printed books, pamphlets, and periodicals that support teaching, learning, research, and public engagement.
Our Special Collections document the history of education, literature, religion, philosophy, children's literature, the Irish language, printing, publishing, and political thought. They include rare and early printed books, unique research collections, and published works acquired through donation and institutional collecting.
Researchers can discover and browse Archives & Special Collections through the Library Catalogue, which brings together records for both archival and special collections in a single search experience. Collection records are continually enhanced as new material is catalogued and made available.
Special Collections
Discover the principal rare book and printed heritage collections preserved by DCU Library. Each collection page provides an overview of the collection, its significance, highlights, and information on how to access the material.
Printed Collections
![The logo of Conradh na Gaeilge with the phrase Tír is Teanga [Land and Language]](/sites/default/files/styles/widescreen_television/public/community_editor/2026-07/5.con_na_g.1.jpg.webp?itok=0VUYDxue)
Planning Your Research
Our Special Collections are available through the Library Catalogue.
Need help identifying relevant collections? Our team will be happy to help identify archival collections that may support your research before you arrange a Reading Room appointment.
Visit the Reading Room
Special Collections material may be consulted in the Archives and Special Collections Reading Room by appointment.
Contact us for appointments, opening hours, accessibility, and visitor information.
