Libraries for Democracy

Date: 25 Sep - 25 Sep 2026
Time: 17:00 - 19:00
Venue: Neill Lecture Theatre, Trinity Long Room Hub

An event in partnership with The Library of Trinity College Dublin. Featuring a keynote address by EU Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief, Mairead McGuinness, followed by a panel discussion moderated by the Librarian and College Archivist, Helen Shenton, with special guests.

Please register here.

The event will explore the role of libraries, knowledge and open dialogue in supporting democratic societies, reflecting Trinity's commitment to academic freedom, civic engagement and informed public debate.
The Library, in collaboration with the Trinity Long Room Hub Arts & Humanities Research Institute, is hosting the event on Friday 25th September, 5 pm-7 pm. The event forms part of the Trinity Arts & Humanities Research Festival and also takes place on European Researchers’ Night. This is the inaugural event as part of a ‘Libraries for Democracy’ series.


Panellists include:

  • Director of the National Library of Latvia, Dagnija Baltiņa
  • Secretary General of LIBER (Association of European Research Libraries), Anja Smit
  • Director of National Archives of Ireland, Orlaith MacBride
  • Head of Libraries Development for the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) in Ireland, Stuart Hamilton



This event is run in accordance with Trinity’s Dignity and Respect policy, and its commitment to nurturing a respectful and inclusive research culture.
Please indicate if you have any access requirements, such as ISL/English interpreting, so that we can facilitate you in attending this event. Contact: tlrh@tcd.ie

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