Each National Archives file has a unique code for citations and researchers should always use this code. Codes on departmental files from the last 20 years consist of three numbers.
These files should be cited as follows: NAI, 2017/11/478.
This refers to file 478 from the 11th body set for release in January 2018. It was named “Product Safety Bill” in 1987 and was transferred by the Department of the Taoiseach in 2017.
For earlier records, use an alpha-numeric or descriptive code eg NAI, TSCH/3/S855.
This code points to a file from the Central Registry of the Department of Taoiseach and its predecessor, the Department of the President of the Executive Council. The time frame is 1922 to 1982 and the file is titled “Teaching of the Irish Language in National Schools: Public Notice No. 4, Feb 1922–Mar 1922”.
NAI, ED/1/23/9: this refers to an application to the Commissioners of National Education for inclusion in the newly-established national school system by Ballylawn male and female national school in county Donegal dating from 1832.
NAI, OPW/5HC/4/1: this refers to architectural drawings of proposed married quarters in Islandbridge military barracks [Clancy Barracks] signed by officers of the Royal Engineers in 1860.
NAI, CS/HC/Summary Summons 1936/file 1051: this refers to file 1051 which is a Summary Summons file from the High Court in 1936.
NAI, CS/CP/GY/Publicans’ Licences: notices; registers, 1909: this is a record of pub licences from the Galway Crown and Peace Court in 1909.
NAI, CS/CP/GY/Civil Bill Book 1889/case name: this refers to a civil case in the Galway Crown and Peace Court in 1889.
Citing a document within a file
Researchers should provide the document’s title and the file’s full reference code eg “Letter dated 23 July 1963 from President John F Kennedy to Taoiseach Seán Lemass. NAI, TSCH/3/S17401.” This is President Kennedy’s thank you letter to Seán Lemass for his hospitality during his visit to Ireland in June 1963 (NAI, TSCH/3/S17401).
Using the correct reference code
When using the National Archives, always cite the reference code from our catalogue or finding aids. This ensures accuracy and smooths your research. Avoid using codes from publications unless they match our catalogue as incorrect citations can complicate file orders. The definitive reference code is the one provided by the National Archives. If you’re unsure, our Duty Archivist is always available to help or you can contact us directly at query@nationalarchives.ie.
Locating a file quoted in a publication
If you’re having trouble finding a file cited in a publication, it might be due to an incorrect reference code. This is a common issue but easily resolved. Verifying your citations before publishing can save you time and effort. A publication may reference a document within a file and you might need to search the file for it.
You may also need to check if the record is held in the National Archives or another institution, either in Ireland or abroad. This is crucial for records before Ireland’s state formation or private collections, such as estate records. Sometimes materials listed in Dublin may be in the UK National Archives in London or the National Library of Ireland.
If you have any issues, please ask our Duty Archivist or Reading Room staff as we’re here to help you enjoy a smooth research journey.