Frequently Asked Questions about the National Archives

Is it free?

There is no charge for visiting the National Archives - charges are incurred only in the case of purchasing photocopying cards or paying for photocopies of documents.

Do I have to book to visit?

If you bring photographic identification, you will be issued with a Reader's Ticket that will allow you to use all the facilities without booking. If you are coming as part of a group for a visit or after-hours talk, you will need to contact us in advance.

What are the opening hours and closure dates of the National Archives during 2010?

The Reading Room of the National Archives is open from Monday to Friday, 10.00 till 17.00, to members of the public in possession of a valid Reader's Ticket.

The Reading Room will be closed on the following days during 2010:

1 January	Public Holiday
17 March	Public Holiday
2 April	Public Holiday
5 April	Public Holiday
3 May	Public Holiday
7 June	Public Holiday
2 August	Public Holiday
25 October	Public Holiday
Early-mid December	Media preview dates yet to be decided
24 (pm) December-2 January	Closure for Christmas 2010 and New Year 2011

Does the National Archives have a carpark?

No parking facilities are available on site and on-street parking in the vicinity of the National Archives is restricted. However, there are commercial multi-storey carparks nearby at St Stephen's Green and Christchurch Place.

Does the National Archives have a restaurant?

While there are vending machines available selling coffee, tea, soup, canned drinks and chocolate in the National Archives, we do not have a restaurant - however, there are restaurants, cafés and shops in the vicinity of Bishop Street.

How do I apply for a Reader's Ticket?

A Reader's Ticket, which is free of charge, may be obtained either by filling out an application form available online or in our reception area. Readers are requested to bring with them on their first visit, photographic identification to facilitate the ticketing procedure; valid photographic identification includes a passport; driver's licence; (international) student card; social security card; travel pass and employment ID. The tickets are issued for periods of up to three years and are not valid in other research institutions.

Where do I start my research?

Online:

To help you learn more about the records we hold, our website provides information about:

Visit the National Archives:

If you would like to conduct your research in person, the Visit and contact us sections will help you plan your visit.

Does the National Archives carry out research for members of the public?

No, the staff of the National Archives and its Genealogy Service cannot undertake research on behalf of members of the public. However, the Genealogy Service, staffed by professional genealogists, provides a short personal consultation service free of charge to visitors who are researching their family tree. In addition, there are professional researchers listed in the Genealogy section who undertake paid genealogical and historical research. The National Archives does not accept any responsibility for either the work done or the fees charged by the professional researchers.

Can I obtain copies of records?

Subject to the terms of the Copyright and Related Rights Act, 2000, yes, we can provide copies of documents generally in the form of photocopies, copies from microforms and copies from digital images. Bound volumes, maps or fragile documents cannot be photocopied and alternative methods of copying should be discussed with the duty archivist. For further details on ordering, fees and postage etc please see Obtain copies of records in the Services section.

How far back can I trace my Irish ancestors?

The extent to which you can trace your ancestors depends very much on the information already known about the person in question. For further guidance on genealogy, see Getting started in the Genealogy section.