On Friday night it was Culture Night in Dublin. I was feeling a bit under the weather but could not miss the opportunity to see the National Library. I took a guided tour of the Reading Room and the Yeats exhibit currently housed at the library. The Reading Room was absolutely incredible to see, and because it was Culture Night I was allowed to take pictures!
Isn't it beautiful? I can just imagine Joyce sitting at one of the study desks.
And I find my own for all the studying I will need to be doing!
I was thrilled to find out that I can get a reader's card and use the library and reading room at any time it is open. I will also have access to all the books, manuscripts, etc. in their collection! I just about shrieked from excitement!
The whole library itself is beautiful, and I remember almost non of what the guide said because I was too focused getting a reader's card and seeing Joyce's manuscripts. They even have a first edition of
Ulysses that you can examine virtually in an exhibit.
I had an absolutely amazing evening in nerd heaven! I can't wait to go back for more!!
Oh and here is the infamous 'prick with the stick'!
All this picture needs is me next to him with a shirt that says 'James Joyce is my homeboy' and a umbrella to lean on! :) My goal is to make some form of that picture happen before I leave.
You ok to wear Joyce clothes yet?
ReplyDeleteRemember to log the number of "nerdie" hours you spend at the library...maybe you"ll set a university record!
ReplyDeleteHubby, I still feel a bit self-conscious wearing Joyce gear in a city where people might actually recognize his face on my shirt! But hey, what the heck?!
ReplyDeleteCin,
I will keep track!!
You look like you were in heaven. Cannot get much closer to your subject than there in Dublin. What a great experience.
ReplyDeleteYou look spectacular and right at home at your desk. Can you believe
ReplyDeleteyou're in Joyce land?