The grant, which was made possible by National Lottery players, will be used to create a new library space, and conserve and catalogue its important collection of 6000 books, pamphlets, manuscripts and periodicals.

Founded in 1833, St. Malachy's College on Belfast’s Antrim Road is the oldest Catholic grammar school in Ulster and one of the oldest in Ireland.  Its library was named after Monsignor James O’Laverty, a former student who was appointed Dean of the College in 1857 and whose Irish manuscripts are the centrepiece of the collection. 

The funding will safeguard and provide greater access to the library’s printed collections and archive, whose gems include 18th century diaries and letters written by Michael Collins and Padraig Pearse.

The project will promote the hidden and lesser-known heritage of the College including its links to the United Irishmen and the anti-slavery movement.

Following refurbishment the library will also house a small space to host activities such as research, book launches, poetry readings and other literary events.  These activities will transform the library into a hub for the local community where people can access, use and learn more about the library and its collections.

Announcing the award, Head of HLF Northern Ireland, Paul Mullan, said: “We are delighted to support this project which will refurbish the library, creating a space with enhanced facilities that will benefit not only the students of St Malachy’s College, but the wider community too.

“Thanks to players of the National Lottery, this project will sit proudly alongside other local heritage assets such as the Duncairn Centre for Arts and Culture, Crumlin Road Gaol and Clifton Street Graveyard, greatly enhancing the cultural offering of North Belfast.” 

Mr Paul McBride, Principal of St. Malachy’s College, stated: “We at St. Malachy’s College are delighted that HLF is supporting our O’Laverty Library project. This funding will ensure the preservation of this valuable collection from our heritage and will transform the library and associated facilities so that they may be enjoyed by our pupils, staff, the wider community and interested groups. The College is excited at the opportunity to share this valuable resource. The College has ambitious plans for the future. The project marks another milestone step in meeting our 2020 vision for the redevelopment of the College facilities which we hope will act as a catalyst for future development and investment.”

Further information

Please contact Julie Halliday via email: julieh@hlf.org.uk or via tel: 07733 100674