The open house event, titled The People’s History of Partition, will feature historical experts Dr Eamon Phoenix and Professor Diane Urquhart who will be on hand to consult about personal artefacts and/or stories (recorded if desired). The event is on a first-come-first-served basis, so come early! The newly refurbished Linen Hall Café will be open to the public to offer refreshments.

The event is also significant in that it is the first to take place in the Library since lockdown began in March 2020.

Linen Hall Director Julie Andrews says: “It is exciting to be able to, once again, welcome the public back to enjoy our events in the Library building. I would encourage everyone to consider what relevant Partition artefacts and family stories they may have which could enhance our Ireland Divided project.”

Sheila McClelland, Committee Member, Northern Ireland, The National Lottery Heritage Fund says: “We’re delighted to support the Linen Hall Library through the Shared History Fund.  This is one of 39 projects which will help people to mark the Centenary of Northern Ireland in a creative, thoughtful and inclusive way.”

Ireland Divided: A Linen Hall Perspective looks at the partition of Ireland and the birth of the Northern Ireland state, in this, its centenary year. The project will run from September 2021 – March 2022, featuring a major exhibition, an exciting events and learning programme, as well as community engagement activity in the Belfast area.