About
Designed by the Boston-based architects Shepley Bulfinch, working in association with the Belfast architects, Robinson Patterson Partnership, the McClay Library opened in 2009 after an extensive £50 million fundraising initiative. It is named in honour of the pharmaceutical businessman and philanthropist, Sir Allen McClay, who was a major benefactor of Queen's University Belfast.
The Library's extensive book and journal collections (approximately 1.2 million volumes) support teaching, learning and research in the arts and humanities, science and engineering, the social sciences and law. A reading room on the First Floor is provided for consulting special collections and the institutional archive of the University. The Library's Special Collections include manuscripts dating from the twelfth century onwards, as well as historic maps, photographs and rare books primarily of Irish and local interest. Also located on the First Floor is the C. S. Lewis Reading Room which is entered through a replica of the wardrobe door used in the 2005 Disney film, 'The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'.
Over 2,000 study spaces are available in the Library, including individual and group study rooms, with specific areas designated as silent and whisper zones. Natural light and scenic surroundings are utilised throughout the building, with its atrium and spectacular views of the adjacent Botanic Gardens, as well as Belfast City. Sustainability was a crucial consideration in the design and construction of the library, in keeping with the University's environmental policy. The building meets the highest environmental standards. Access is primarily reserved to staff and students of the university, so this is an opportunity for the general public to see around the building and find out about the services that it provides at the heart of the university campus.
On Saturday 14 September the Library will be open to the public from 10am-5pm for self-guided tours. Guided tours will also take place at 10am, 11am, 12 noon, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. There is no need to book a place for these. Treasure hunt sheets will be available for primary school age children, who should be accompanied by a responsible adult. An exhibition on science collections will also be on display on the Ground Floor of the Library.
The Library will be closed to the public on Sunday 15 September.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
