This collection consists of material reflecting the history of the gallery from its foundation to the present day. This is a valuable source for those interested in the establishment and development of a national institution in Ireland. The collection includes detailed archives relating to the foundation of the gallery and work of the Irish Institution, a complete set of Minute Books recording meetings of the NGI Board since 1855, information on the Directors and staff of the NGI such as Hugh Lane, Thomas McGreevy, Brinsley MacNamara and James Stephens, documentation and plans relating to the development of the gallery building over the years, records relating to the development of the gallery's collection including register's of paintings, prints, sculpture etc.