The RDS Podcast

The RDS

Now home to Ireland’s best known venue, the RDS mission has been turning ideas into action for nearly 295 years. Since 1731 we have worked to see Ireland thrive culturally & economically. We believe that for Ireland to thrive it needs its people to apply their experience, ideas and energy. Today our mission finds voice in our Foundation; harking back to our founding vision. RDS Members are people who share our vision and are vital to our success.

  1. Episode 4: Telling Tales: Revealing the History of the RDS Library & Archives

    11/07/2024

    Episode 4: Telling Tales: Revealing the History of the RDS Library & Archives

    The RDS Library & Archives is one of the oldest and largest independent Libraries in Ireland and has been a part of the Society from its Foundation in 1731. Its remit is to collect material related to the RDS  Foundation areas of areas of art, science, agriculture, enterprise and equestrianism, and to maintain its archives which offer a rich and unique resource for researchers and students of the social, economic and cultural history of Ireland. The Library was housed in several locations across Dublin from its  beginnings in 1731 until the Society purchased Leinster House in 1815. There the Library occupied the first floor of the building sharing space with the RDS museum collections until the opening of the Natural History Museum building in 1856. In 1877, under the auspices of the Dublin Art and Museum Act the RDS Library collections were transferred to the State to form the foundation collections of the National Library of Ireland. The RDS moved from Leinster House to Ballsbridge in 1924 and the new Library was opened in what is now the RDS Concert Hall. The current Library building was designed by the architect Louis Giron and was  opened by Eamon De Valera in 1965. The RDS Library & Archives collections are available for consultation by the public by appointment. Parts of the collections are also to view on the RDS digital archive platform. Join RDS Foundation Director Niamh De Loughry and Head of Library & Archives Natasha Serne as they explore the fascinating history of the RDS Library & Archives from its beginnings in the 18th century to the present day.

    25 min

About

Now home to Ireland’s best known venue, the RDS mission has been turning ideas into action for nearly 295 years. Since 1731 we have worked to see Ireland thrive culturally & economically. We believe that for Ireland to thrive it needs its people to apply their experience, ideas and energy. Today our mission finds voice in our Foundation; harking back to our founding vision. RDS Members are people who share our vision and are vital to our success.