Although everyone in Ireland speaks English now, there are still many people who can say that Irish was their first language, and many more who can claim it as their second. Moreover, it is a fact that people all over the world are studying Irish, many to embrace a heritage in a way that only language can offer, others because it gives them access to interesting aspects of Ireland otherwise denied them.

This volume will make a valuable contribution to any reference shelf, opening a window into the treasure-store of Irish language literature and resources. The Irish language has never lacked for documentation. Awealth of material is available, the works of writers both past and contemporary -stories, novels, songs, poetry, plays, histories and all categories of non-fiction -- but most of it is written in Irish, making it largely in Irish making it inaccessible to people who do not know the language.

Here is a solid guide and starting point designed to help even those who as yet have little or no Irish find ways to learn more, whether by reading translations and dual-language books, or by taking up study of the language. Speakers of Irish and those learning to speak it will find practical information, such as textbooks and self study courses, an introduction to Irish language literature and many of its authors, newspapers, magazines and other media, a selection of the best web sites, where to find Irish language summer schools, social outlets and places to meet other speakers and/or students of the language, and avenues to find out more. Students, and readers who have only recently discovered that Ireland has a living native language, will also appreciate the brief historical outline that traces its path from the earliest evidence up to the up to the present> For them, there is also a short introduction to the language itself.