Papers of Edna O’Brien find lasting home at National Library of Ireland

The notebooks, drafts, revisions and correspondence of acclaimed Irish author Edna O’Brien spanning 2009-2021 will be added to the collection of the National Library of Ireland.

The acquisition of approximately 50 boxes of manuscripts belonging to the 90-year-old novelist represents an important moment for the library’s collection of work by Ireland’s female writers.

Literary and personal papers belonging to the Co Clare author for the period 2000 to 2009 are already held by the National Library. Included in the archive is the author’s own copy of the final proof of her 2019 novel Girl, letters to her long-time friend, the late American author Philip Roth, and papers relating to work in progress on a play about James Joyce.

O’Brien’s first novel, The Country Girls, published in 1960 was banned in Ireland for its portrayal of female sexuality. Since then she has written more than 20 novels, five plays and four works of non-fiction, including her memoir, Country Girl.

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Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, acquired in 2000 the author's archive of papers from 1939 to 2000.

Now living in London, O’Brien said it has “always” been her wish for her papers to reside in Ireland.

“I am thrilled and honoured that the National Library has acquired my archive… My works are stories of place as much as people, and Ireland has long featured as a central character. It is only right that my most recent archive should find its lasting home there,” O’Brien said.

Director of the National Library of Ireland, Dr Sandra Collins, said the acquisition of O’Brien’s papers is a “momentous occasion” for the museum.

“It is my hope that all those who view and study this archive will glean deep insight into Edna’s practice, and feel inspired, not only by her work, but by her trailblazing, tenacious spirit,” she said.

Minister for the Arts Catherine Martin, who allocated funding for the archive, said she was “delighted” the National Library has acquired an “invaluable” collection of writings. Ms O’Brien’s “place in the literary canon both nationally and internationally is assured and her importance as a novelist and a chronicler of Ireland is unique”, Ms Martin said.

The author’s writing shines a spotlight on women, their agency and their autonomy, Ms Martin added. “ She has recounted women’s stories unflinchingly, doing so when the stakes were high and it was unbecoming to speak about women’s lives with such frankness and honesty,” Ms Martin added.

Born and raised in Tuamgraney, Co Clare, O’Brien has received numerous accolades, including being named Commander of the French “Ordre des Arts et Lettres” in March of this year.