The Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive, located at 15 Moy Road, Armagh, BT61 7LY, is a unique cultural and historical institution in Ireland’s ecclesiastical capital. Here’s what visitors can expect when visiting this attraction, along with any new features based on available information.
The Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive, often referred to as CÓFLA, is a free, independent public reference library and a registered charity. It houses specialized collections of national and international significance, focusing on Irish history, the Irish language, ecclesiastical history, the Irish diaspora, and Irish sports, particularly Gaelic games. Here’s a detailed overview of what visitors can experience:
Extensive Collections:
- Library Holdings: The library contains approximately 40,000 published volumes and 450 periodical titles, some dating back to the 15th century. The core collection includes the personal papers and books of Cardinal TomásÓ Fiaich, supplemented by records from the Archdiocese of Armagh.
- Archives: The archive spans nearly one kilometer of document storage, housing about onem documents. Key collections include:
- Irish Overseas Archive: Documents of historical and genealogical interest related to Irish families in Europe from the 16th to 19th centuries.
- Manuscript Collection: Preserves significant Irish language sources, including poetry from South Ulster.
- Sports Collection: A vast array of Gaelic games materials, such as match programmes, historical records, artifacts, and other publications.
- Archdiocesan Records: Records of the Catholic Archdiocese of Armagh, including papers of archbishops from the French Revolution to the 1960s.
- Fr. Louis O’Kane Collection: Recordings of over 80 veterans of the War of Independence, conducted between 1963 and 1970.
Genealogy Services:
- The library offers a fee-based family history research service, providing access to Catholic Church records for the Archdiocese of Armagh. This is particularly valuable for those tracing their ancestry in the region.
- Lectures and Events: The library hosts regular lectures on topics related to its collections, such as Irish history, language, and sports. Past programmes have included conferences on themes like the Flight of the Earls and Gaelic games exhibitions.
- Outreach Initiatives: The library engages with schools and community groups through its education and outreach programme, which began in 2006. This includes PowerPoint presentations, audio-visual displays, and exhibitions to bring the collections to broader audiences.
- Art and Artifacts: Visitors can view notable original artworks and artifacts, augmenting the cultural experience.
- Free Admission: Access to the library and its collections is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.
- Group Visits: The library welcomes larger groups by prior arrangement, ideal for educational tours or special interest groups.
- Location and Accessibility: Situated off Moy Road, near the Catholic Cathedral, the library is easily accessible within Armagh city. It operates Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
- Cultural Significance: As a tribute to Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich (1923–1990), the library reflects his legacy in promoting Irish culture, language, and history, offering a deep dive into Ireland’s ecclesiastical and cultural heritage.
Library Enhancements:
- The library has a history of expanding its offerings through community engagement and new acquisitions. For example, past outreach programmes led to donations of previously unknown photographs, minute books, and match programmes, enriching the collections. Similar efforts may continue, introducing new exhibits or materials.
- The library’s website, relaunched in 2022, suggests ongoing efforts to improve digital access and visibility, which could include updated online resources or virtual tours.
- Given the library’s focus on education, new lectures, exhibitions, or workshops will be planned, aligning with its mission to engage new audiences, though specific events are not yet announced.
Complementary Attractions:
- Visitors to the library can pair their visit with other new or enhanced attractions in Armagh, such as:
- Navan Centre and Fort: Offering interactive Celtic history workshops and storytelling, a contender for World Heritage Site status.
- Armagh Observatory and Planetarium: Featuring immersive astronomical experiences and an outdoor Astropark.
- Dan Winter’s Cottage: Showcasing traditional linen weaving, adding to the region’s heritage offerings.
- These developments enhance Armagh’s appeal as a destination, increasing visitor numbers to the library.
Recommendations for Visitors
- Plan Ahead: Contact the library at +44 28 3752 2981 or via email (e.g., Roddy.Hegarty@ofiaich.ie or Joseph.Canning@ofiaich.ie) to arrange group visits or access specific research materials.
- Combine with Other Attractions: Make the most of your visit by exploring nearby sites like the Armagh Robinson Library, Navan Fort, or the two Saint Patrick’s Cathedrals, which are steeped in history and easily accessible.
- Check for Events: Visit www.ofiaich.ie for updates on lectures, exhibitions, or special programmes that will be scheduled.
- Genealogy Research: If interested in family history, inquire about the fee-based genealogy service in advance to maximise your research time.
A visit to the Cardinal Tomás Ó Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive offers a deep dive into Ireland’s cultural, historical, and ecclesiastical heritage, with free access to extensive collections, genealogy services, and educational programmes. While specific new features for the library are not detailed, the broader tourism initiatives in Armagh suggest an enriched visitor experience, with new regional attractions and events that complement the library’s offerings. Visitors can expect a welcoming, educational, and culturally significant experience, enhanced by Armagh’s growing reputation as a recommended visit destination. For the latest updates, check the library’s official website at www.ofiaich.ie
