Updated 29 October 2025

UCD Library is embarking on an exciting new project to shape the future of its Digital Library — the home of thousands of photographs, letters, manuscripts, maps, recordings, and research materials that tell the story of UCD and Ireland’s rich cultural and academic heritage.

The Digital Library & Digital Preservation System Discovery Project is a planning and research initiative designed to help UCD identify the best new systems and technologies to manage, protect, and share these collections online. This work will ensure that UCD’s digital cultural heritage remains accessible, sustainable, and discoverable — now and for future generations.

Why This Project is Needed

In early 2025, UCD’s long-running Digital Library system was retired due to technical and security challenges. While a temporary access site is still available, it offers only limited functionality. To restore and enhance full digital access, UCD Library is now taking proactive steps to design a new, modern solution that meets today’s research, teaching, and cultural engagement needs.

This project focuses on discovery and planning — understanding what users want, exploring global best practices, and preparing a detailed business case to guide investment in a new system.

Listening to Our Users

A key part of the Discovery Project involves listening to our community. Focus groups and online surveys will gather feedback from:

• Students and academic staff
• Researchers and digital scholars
• Cultural heritage and library professionals
• Donors, depositors and the wider public

Your insights will help shape how the new UCD Digital Library looks, feels, and functions — from search tools and accessibility features to how digital collections are preserved for the long term.

Project Timeline

[coming soon]

What This Means for You

The outcome of the Discovery Project will shape a new, modern, and inclusive Digital Library that:

• Provides fast, easy, and secure online access to UCD’s collections
• Meets global standards for digital preservation
• Enhances teaching, learning, and research
• Connects the University’s cultural heritage with the world

By investing in this work now, UCD is ensuring that its digital collections — and the stories they tell — are protected, discoverable, and shared with everyone.

Get in touch!

If you have any queries please contact us by email at digital.library@ucd.ie.