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LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre library in Dun Laoghaire, D
Photo: Google
View of LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre in Dun Laoghaire, D
Photo: Google
View of LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre in Dun Laoghaire, D
Photo: Google

LexIcon Library and Cultural Centre

4.5(423 reviews)FreeLibrary
🕑 1-2 hours👶 Best for ages 0-12. Babies and toddlers enjoy story time sessions, preschoolers love the interactive children's area, and older kids appreciate the workshops, technology resources, and young adult section. The building itself is architecturally impressive, making it interesting even for teens.

About

The LexIcon is a stunning modern library overlooking Dublin Bay that offers much more than books. With an award-winning dedicated children's section, regular story times, creative workshops, and free family activities year-round, it's a cultural haven where kids can explore Irish literature, attend events, and enjoy interactive learning in a bright, welcoming space.

Highlights

  • Dedicated, colorful children's library section with books in multiple languages
  • Regular free story time sessions and creative workshops for various age groups
  • Stunning modern architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows and ocean views
  • Interactive technology stations and digital resources for kids
  • Year-round cultural events including school holiday programs

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Check the online events calendar before visiting to catch special story times, craft workshops, or author visits that may require advance booking
  2. 2.Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience, while weekend story times offer great opportunities to meet local families
  3. 3.Free parking is available directly underneath the building, making access with strollers incredibly easy
  4. 4.The building's top floor has stunning views of Dublin Bay, perfect for a quick photo opportunity
  5. 5.Ask staff about the Junior Library Card program, which children can obtain even as temporary visitors

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM) are ideal for younger children to enjoy the space without crowds. Tuesday and Thursday evenings (when open until 8:00 PM) work well for families combining it with dinner in Dun Laoghaire. Saturday mornings often feature scheduled story times and activities.

What to Know

Admission and all children's activities are completely free. Underground parking is available with reasonable rates. The facility is fully accessible with elevators and baby changing facilities. No food is allowed in the library, but there are comfortable seating areas and the waterfront promenade is steps away.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round with special programming during school holidays (Easter, summer, Halloween, and Christmas). Summer reading programs and holiday craft workshops are particularly popular. Note reduced Sunday hours (12:00 PM to 4:00 PM) and plan accordingly.

Nearby Eats

The nearby Dun Laoghaire waterfront has numerous family-friendly options including Teddy's Ice Cream (a local institution since 1950) and Fish Shack Cafe for casual fish and chips. The Pavilion Theatre cafe next door offers light meals and child-friendly snacks.

More Activities Near Dun Laoghaire

Activity

East Pier

This stunning Victorian-era pier stretches 1.3km into Dublin Bay, offering families a safe, car-free promenade perfect for walks, scooters, and bikes. Kids love watching ferries and sailboats glide past while exploring the historic lighthouse at the pier's end, and on clear days you'll enjoy spectacular views across to Howth Head.

Cafe

Glasthule Village High Street

$

Glasthule Village High Street offers a delightful village atmosphere perfect for relaxed family outings in the greater Dublin area. This charming pedestrian-friendly street features welcoming cafes, ice cream parlors, and casual eateries where families can enjoy treats and meals without the hustle of city center crowds. The village setting makes it easy to let kids explore while parents enjoy quality coffee and conversation.

Playground

Sallynoggin park

5.0Free

Sallynoggin Park (also known as Pearse Park) is a wonderful community playground in the charming coastal area of Dun Laoghaire, just south of Dublin city center. With modern play equipment catering to multiple age groups, a basketball court, and plenty of open green space for running around, it's an ideal spot for families to enjoy some outdoor fun without spending a euro.

Adventure

Dún Laoghaire Harbour

4.7

Dún Laoghaire Harbour is a spectacular seaside destination where families can enjoy scenic waterfront walks, watch boats sailing in and out, and soak up authentic Irish maritime culture. The open harbor setting offers plenty of space for kids to explore safely while parents relax at harborside cafes, making it perfect for a leisurely family outing with stunning sea views.