The Philip B Wilson Library was officially opened in 1998 and is named in honour of a past curator and historian, in recognition of his contribution to local history in the Borough of Craigavon. Today the library comprises almost 2,500 books offering a large collection of reference material, including collections on cultural traditions, archaeology, Irish military history, transportation, local church history, political history, traditional crafts and architecture to name just a few. However the main focus of the library is on the history of the Craigavon Borough area and as such offers an extensive range of material, including a number of rare books and original manuscripts especially useful to local history enthusiasts.

In addition the library holds the Ulster Quarterly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends. This collection is recognised as one of the most extensive libraries of Quaker books in Ireland and records the history of the Quakers in Ireland from the middle of the seventeenth century. It comprises almost 700 volumes of tracts, obituaries, biographies, journals, periodicals, apologetics and seventeenth to twentieth century travels in ministry. The collection reflects the long association of Quakers with the area, as the first meeting in Ireland was held in Lurgan in 1654.

Of great benefit to the local researcher is a growing collection of over 25,000 slides and photographs which record the development of the Craigavon area, it's social history, industries, prominent families and individuals dating back to the 1950's.

These photographic images form two major collections within the Museum -

• The Gracey Collection spans the decades from the 1950's to the 1980's and offers a visual record of Lurgan and the surrounding areas.
• The Craigavon Development Collection covers the period 1966 to 1975 and illustrates the planning and development of Craigavon as a ' new city '.

At present these collections are part of an ongoing digitisation project, which upon completion, will allow increased access for the public.

We hold photographs from various National Collections such as Lawrence, Welch and Hogg, which also illustrate the local area. These photographs are held for consultation only, but the library can advise as to which organisation to contact for any copies that may be required.

Also available for consultation is a large collection of 6" and 25" Ordnance Survey maps of the Craigavon area dating from the early nineteenth century.

In addition, we subscribe to a number of major journals / publications including : Ulster Journal of Archaeology, Archaeology Ireland, Ulster Folklife, Museums Journal, History Ireland, as well as 'Review' the local Historical Society's annual publication and the Journal of the Armagh Diocesan Historical Society 'Seanchas Ard Macha'.

Unfortunately the library does not hold any primary genealogical resources and therefore is unsuitable for such research, although a number of books and indexes are available which will help the reader find and use sources available elsewhere.

A Photocopying service and toilet facilities are available and there is access for wheelchair users.

Please note that as a research library, material is available for consultation only and cannot be borrowed.

The Philip B Wilson Library is open from 10am to 1pm and from 2pm to 4pm Monday to Friday but is closed on bank and public holidays.

Guided tours of the library are also available, but for your convenience it is generally recommended that you call us in advance of your visit.