Resources for NCAD Students
Introduction to the Edward Murphy Library
The Edward Murphy Library houses an unrivaled collection of almost 100,000 books, pamphlets, video material, periodicals, and exhibition catalogues on a wide variety of topics. As a student in NCAD, the EML's resources are here for you to use in your learning and research, supporting the work that you do in your classes and studio practice.
For the most part, the EML's collections are open access: this means that you can browse the shelves for the titles you're interested in and pick these up either for consultation in the EML or to borrow for use outside of the library.
For a step-by-step introduction to identifying your course books in the EML, and how to borrow them, read through this 'Using the Library' guide.
Some of the EML's collections are kept in storage and must be ordered in advance by using the 'Place Hold' function on the library catalogue.
Closed access special collections of rare and valuable materials relating to Irish art and design are housed in the National Irish Visual Arts Library (NIVAL).
The Library subscribes to over 150 periodicals which offer an international view of the subjects taught at the College. Comprehensive back issues of these titles are also available in hard copy and the Library’s online databases provide access to additional digital publications. Users have access to a range of high-quality images through the Visual Resources Centre and its databases, along with a large collection of DVDs, Blu-rays, and CDs.
An important part of the Library service is the Learning Centre. To find out more about the Centre's services, and how we can help you to get more from the EML, view this information page. The first port of call for all users requiring assistance should be the Issue Desk: most of the staff working there have experience of studying and working in the field of art and design, and are happy to help with any search or reference queries you might have.
Quick Help Guides
In this section, you will find further information on how to use the EML through our Library Help Videos; links to the Technical Workshop Induction resources; information on the Learning & Professional Practice Module for First Year students; and information on our digital magazine & print journals, and help with referencing and citation.
Subject and Research Guides
For more varied and in-depth guides to using the EML and for specific research areas, visit our Library Guide page.
Further Help
If you need further assistance with your learning and research, the Student Learning and Support Service offers a range of supports for NCAD students. Full deails can be found by visiting their page here.