On 17 August, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris announced an investment of €4.3 million in 50 enterprise-focused research awards under the Irish Research Council’s Enterprise Partnership Scheme.
Among the 11 awardees announced from Trinity College Dublin last week was Dr Nora Moroney, Trinity Long Room Hub alumna and a graduate of Trinity’s School of English. Dr Moroney will commence research in collaboration with Marsh’s Library on the book collection of Benjamin Iveagh, one of Ireland’s most “exquisite” book collections, according to the post-doctoral researcher.
“I've always been interested in print and publishing history, and this project allows me to delve into the world of private libraries and book collecting. With its links to the Guinness family and Farmleigh House, I hope that the project will appeal to a wide audience and enhance appreciation of some of the treasures of the collection - from 18th century bindings to first editions of Joyce and Swift”, commented Dr Moroney on the award.
The Benjamin Iveagh Library, based at Dublin’s Farmleigh House, represents one of the most significant private book collections of twentieth-century Ireland.
The Benjamin Iveagh Library, based at Dublin’s Farmleigh House, represents one of the most significant private book collections of twentieth-century Ireland. Benjamin Guinness, Earl of Iveagh (1937-92) amassed an important library over his lifetime which was later bequeathed to Marsh's Library, Dublin. This project represents a unique partnership between Marsh's and Trinity College Dublin, aiming to develop the national and international profile of a collection held in one of Ireland's most prestigious houses.
The project will be mentored by Professor Eve Patten, School of English and Director of the Trinity Long Room Hub, who also supervised Dr Moroney’s doctoral research on Irish writers and the late-Victorian periodical press.
Dr Moroney highlighted the exciting opportunity to work with Marsh’s Library as part of the project, alluding to its “expertise in rare books and public outreach” which will allow her to gain critical skills “beyond the academic sphere.”
Bringing together print networks, library collections management and big house history, this study will provide the most comprehensive analysis of the Iveagh Library – indeed any Irish private collection – to date.
The Enterprise Partnership Scheme has been operating for 15 years in the Irish research and innovation landscape and connects enterprise, early career researchers and higher education institutions. For more information, click here.