This display of items from the Solange and Stephen James Joyce Collection uses translations of James Joyce’s work to explore his place as a European and a citizen of the world. The exhibition opens on the European Day of Languages and closes on Joyce’s birthday.

The University of Reading Special Collections has acquired a major collection of books, documents and artefacts relating to James Joyce, one of the most important and influential literary figures of the 20th century.

Stephen Joyce considered the “strong and important” connection between his grandfather and Samuel Beckett as a factor in considering the University as a suitable recipient, feeling that the co-location of the two collections would “considerably enhance” both.

Published items from the Solange and Stephen James Joyce Collection will be available for use by researchers from 26th September 2023. The archival elements of the collection are being catalogued, updates will be posted to the collection A-Z page. Please contact us for more information.

The exhibition is available to view within The MERL opening hours: 

Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 5pm

Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 5pm

Closed on Mondays (including Bank Holidays)