Review: The Old Library of Trinity College Dublin

What’s this place's story?
With two levels of floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves packed with books, many only reachable by a sliding ladder, this immense university library, which dates back to the early 18th century, is a book lover's paradise. In the daytime, light pours into the stacks, which look even more dramatic under the coffered ceiling.

What will we find in this sprawling collection?
You're not here to check out just any ol' book. Instead, buy advance online tickets to peek at the Book of Kells, a preserved vellum manuscript dating back to the 4th century, and its adjoining exhibition. Busts of famous thinkers and scholars—all male, fair warning—adorn the The Long Room of the Old Library.

How were the exhibits?
Exhibitions, which change seasonally, highlight Irish literary traditions. Recently, the library showcased children's books and works by Irish women. Several supplementary online exhibitions let visitors browse some of the collection digitally.

What did you make of the crowd?
Visitors range from bookworms entranced by the picturesque collection to checklist travelers eager to to check off the Book of Kells. The library may be crowded at times, but it's always reasonably quiet; only the hushed voices of tour guides echo throughout the long chamber.

On the practical tip, how were facilities?
There are few benches and tables.

Any guided tours worth trying?
There are tours of the campus and library.

Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?
If you hate reading plaques and pamphlets, this library is your spirit attraction, for it specifically encourages unadulterated admiration instead of an onslaught of facts and trivia. Just be sure you're phone's charged—after all, the dramatic space is highly Instagrammable.