National Print Museum

The National Print Museum was founded by members of the print industry in 1996.

A unique museum, it is the only one of its kind in Ireland. The collection consists of fully-operational letterpress printing equipment - a form of relief printing invented by Johannes Gutenberg in 1439 - displayed and organised like a traditional 1960s print-shop. The main collection is not behind glass or rope, but is instead an example of a working collection.

A panel of retired printers and compositors, who founded the museum continue to play a vital role in preserving the collection and the craft. A major challenge is preserving their knowledge and skills, and passing these on to future generations.

Temporary exhibitions explore the impact of print and the powerful role it played in shaping our histories, while the education department of the museum is committed to providing a wide range of socially-inclusive opportunities for the lifelong discovery and enjoyment of Ireland’s printing heritage.