Exhibitions

Where Irish writing comes alive

Exhibitions are designed to be felt as much as seen. Encounter rare manuscripts, immersive installations and powerful storytelling. From unique works to unexpected perspectives, the exhibitions offer new ways to connect with Irish writing.

Witness priceless artefacts like Copy No.1 of Ulysses by James Joyce, explore the enchanting world of a beloved children’s story, or immerse yourself in Oscar Wilde’s De Profundis. Together, these exhibitions offer a deeper connection to Ireland’s cultural and creative heritage.

Riverrun of Language

What does Irish writing sound like? Every corner of Ireland has its own accent and voice. Immerse yourself in the sound and rhythm of Irish literature. This installation invites you to listen closely as language flows around you, turning words into something you can feel.

The Stories we tell

Begin your visit to MoLI with an introductory film which serves as a celebration of why we read, write and tell stories. Projected across the pages of a giant open book, this short film brings together the voices of readers and writers reflecting on what reading means to them. From ...

What I Like Most

Step into a magical, interactive experience inspired by Mary Murphy’s beloved children’s book. This family-friendly exhibition brings storytelling to life through illustration, making it a highlight among exhibitions Dublin has to offer for visitors of all ages.

A City of Words

Dublin, immortalised in the work of literary giants from James Joyce to Maeve Binchy, is a city of words. Everywhere you look you will find literature embedded in the cityscape of Dublin. This collection of unique literary artefacts celebrate the city’s rich storytelling tradition and offer personal insight into the writers, voices and history that have shaped Dublin’s cultural identity.

Copy No. 1

See the very first copy of James Joyce’s Ulysses, one of the most iconic works in the literature of Ireland, on display as part of MoLI’s permanent collection. Inscribed by James Joyce to his patron Harriet Shaw Weaver, dated 2 February 1922, the day of publication (and Joyce’s birthday). This priceless artefact connects you directly to a defining moment in literary history.

Ulysses By Design

Since Ulysses was first published in 1922, James Joyce’s masterpiece has inspired generations of artists, designers and publishers to reimagine how the book looks. Ulysses by Design explores the visual history of the novel through editions published around the world. From the famous blue of the first Shakespeare and Company ...

Photograph of a person looking at the 'Is This a Poem?' exhibition.

Wild Earth

Saturday, 28 March 2026

How do poetry, storytelling and language offer a way to connect - or reconnect - with nature? Wild Earth brings together over ninety texts from Irish writers, dating from the sixth century to today, to explore how poetry, storytelling and language connect us to the natural world.

Oscar Wilde's De Profundis

7 March – 31 August 2026

Written during his two-year imprisonment, Oscar Wilde’s De Profundis is presented here through a moving film that reintroduces his extraordinary text to new audiences. It offers a deeply personal insight into Wilde’s voice, resilience and his emotional world.

The State and Irish Writing

How did a new nation shape its stories? This exhibition explores the relationship between politics, identity and literature in Ireland during the formation of the Irish Free State. It reveals how writing both shaped and challenged the ideas of independence.

Dear, Dirty Dublin

Writers have long been inspired by the city of Dublin - none more so than James Joyce. This immersive 3D experience invites visitors to explore the sights and sounds of Dublin that shaped Joyce’s work.

YES - this is a must see. Even if you are new to literature..

Dianne L

TripAdvisor

An oasis of calm in the city centre... Hope to visit again soon!

O M

Google Reviews

Superb Museum; Guided tour is worth it.

Elizabeth E

TripAdvisor

Great museum! Exciting and absolutely worth visiting!

Gerhard Stefan

Google Reviews

A must-see for bookworms. Amazing place, very well put-together

Anooshigpk

TripAdvisor

A nice little museum, neighboring the gardens with a cafe and bookshop.

Trevor B

Google Reviews

Magical...Stunning if you're into Joyce or any other major Irish authors.

Frank Snyder

Google Reviews

Possibly my favorite museum ever. If I lived in Dublin, I'd be here every week.

Lauren Q

TripAdvisor

Excellent museum. Not only for literary fans..

Cris tian

Google Reviews

A beautiful space with some fascinating insights in to Irish literary history.

Ronan McCabe

Google Reviews

Exhibitions at MoLI

Where Irish writing comes alive

Riverrun of Language

The Stories we tell

What I Like Most

A City of Words

Copy No. 1

Ulysses By Design

Wild Earth

Oscar Wilde's De Profundis

The State and Irish Writing

Dear, Dirty Dublin

Our Supporters

Exhibitions at MoLI

Where Irish writing comes alive

Riverrun of Language

The Stories we tell

What I Like Most

A City of Words

Copy No. 1

Ulysses By Design

Wild Earth

Oscar Wilde's De Profundis

The State and Irish Writing

Dear, Dirty Dublin

Don't miss a word

Our Supporters