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IN JANUARY THE LINEN HALL LIBRARY CELEBRATES BURNS DAY IN GRAND STYLE
January at the Linen Hall Library features an exhibition of our Robert Burns’ treasures. The Library’s collection of materials by and about this famous Scots poet is the most comprehensive outside of Scotland. Featured items include the inaugural Belfast edition of Burns’ first collection of poems in 1787. Also scheduled in January are the Library’s popular readings for children and a talk about religious reformer Mary Ward.
The January schedule is as follows:
Mary Ward: Prophetic, Pioneering and Passionate (1585 – 1645) - The Life of the Founder of the Congregation of Jesus and the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Wednesday 13 January 6.30pm/Lecture/Free
A fascinating look at the life of the woman who founded the Congregation of Jesus and the Loreto order, both of which are now spread throughout the world. Mary Ward was also unique in her unconventional views on women, their role, their education and their social responsibility – all of which she incorporated into her work. Dr. Elaine McDonald, from Dublin City University and the author of a thesis on Mary Ward, will explore this religious pioneer’s life and work.
(This talk is organised by The Belfast Natural History and Philosophical Society which was founded in 1821 to promote knowledge in arts sciences, and today, amongst other activities and projects, promotes a lecture programme based at the Linen Hall Library.)
Readings for Children - Saturday 23 January 11.00am/Free
Looking for something entertaining for the kids? The Linen Hall continues its series of readings in our dedicated children’s area. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce youngsters to the treasures of the Linen Hall Library. And while the children are being entertained, adults can browse the bookshelves or relax in our café (event suitable for 4 to 7 year olds).
In January The Linen Hall Library Celebrates Burns Day in Grand Style
Burns & Burnsiana Collection - Monday 25 January – Saturday 20 March/Exhibition/Free
Scottish poet and lyricist Robert Burns (1759 – 1796) is celebrated worldwide. He is the best known of the poets who wrote in the Scots language. The Linen Hall Library holds the unique position of having the most comprehensive Burns collection of material outside of Scotland. We’ve delved into our archives and brought forth a fabulous array of Burns-related treasures including the inaugural Belfast edition of Burns’ first collection of poems in 1787 (a year before the origin of the Linen Hall Library).
The Ayrshire Ploughman by John Erskine - Monday 25 January 1:00pm/Lecture/Free
John Erskine traces the first decade of reaction to Robert Burns in Belfast, from the earlier, anonymous appearance of his poems in the local press in 1786, through adulation, doubt and personal contacts, to the poet’s death in 1796.
The Special and Not So Special Relationships of Robert Burns and Ulster Poets by Frank Ferguson
Wednesday 27 January 1.00pm/Lecture/Free
Dr Frank Ferguson, Research Associate at the Institute of Ulster Scot Studies, University of Ulster, explores the nature of the poetic dialogue that occurred between Ulster poets and Burns by examining a selection of poets for whom Burns was a seminal figure.
Linen Hall Reading Group - Thursday 28 January/1.10pm/Free
Everyone is invited to join the Linen Hall’s popular reading group that meets on the last Thursday of every month. This month’s title up for discussion is The Secret History by Donna Tartt.
A misfit at an exclusive New England college, Richard finds kindred spirits in five eccentric students of his ancient Greek class. But his new friends have a horrific secret. When blackmail and violence threaten to blow their privileged lives apart, they drag Richard into a nightmare that engulfs them all.
Notes to editors:
For more information contact Rachel Wetherall, Marketing and PR Officer at the Linen Hall Library,
on 028 9032 1707 or on email at r.wetherall@linenhall.com.
The Linen Hall Library is open free to the public. Opening hours are:
Monday – Friday - 9.30am – 5.30pm; Saturday - 9.30am – 4.00pm.
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