Fine Book Room, Belfast Central Library

The Fine Book Room collection has been developed since the foundation of Belfast Central Library in 1888. The subject range is vast encompassing theology, philosophy, history, travel and science. Included are landmark examples of printing in Europe over the last five centuries, some with fine typography, rare bindings and superb illustrations.

Some specialised material relating to Belfast is held in the Fine Book Room. This includes a significant collection of Belfast printed books from 18th and 19th centuries-an example of which is a copy of the Bible published and printed by James Blow in 1751.

Also of note is the Bryson and MacAdam manuscript collection. Dating from the 18th and 19th centuries the manuscripts include poetry, folklore, natural history and religious texts written in the Irish language. There is a fine collection of the printed works of the Marcus Ward Company which was based in Belfast.