The State Library of New South Wales is a public reference library on Macquarie Street in central Sydney, near the Royal Botanic Garden. Founded in 1826, it is Australia’s oldest library and holds more than six million items, from books and manuscripts to maps, photographs and digital material. The Mitchell Library’s sandstone exterior, bronze doors and glass-roofed Reading Room are reasons to step inside even if you are not researching. Free exhibitions add a changing cultural stop, and the library also has spaces and activities for children.
A library founded in 1826
The State Library of New South Wales began in 1826 and is Australia’s oldest library. It is a public reference and research library, with a collection of more than six million items. Books sit alongside manuscripts, maps, photographs, paintings, architectural plans, objects and digital resources.
The library preserves material connected to New South Wales and makes its collections available to the public. Some items are for research rather than borrowing, so plan to consult them in the library. The scale and range of the holdings give the building a purpose beyond its striking interiors: it is a place to explore records, images and objects tied to the state’s history and culture.
The Mitchell Library and its reading room
The Mitchell Library is the older, more imposing wing, on the corner of Macquarie Street and the Cahill Expressway. Its classical sandstone exterior and bronze entrance doors lead to a light-filled Reading Room, with a glass ceiling above rows of books. The room is one of the clearest reasons to visit, whether you have come to read or simply to see the historic interior.
The Shakespeare Room has a different character, with Tudor-style details that evoke an old private library. The Mitchell Wing also contains a mosaic map depicting Tasman’s journeys. Together, these spaces give a sense of how the library’s architecture and collections have grown alongside one another.
Exhibitions, tours and family activities
Exhibition spaces show material from the library’s holdings and host changing displays. Past subjects have included Aboriginal stories, World War I and special collections. Art and photography displays are also among the areas to look for as you explore. Entry to the library and its exhibitions is free.
A volunteer-led tour runs on Fridays at noon, with a focus on the library’s history. The library also schedules events and activities for children, including school-holiday workshops, drop-in activities and tours. Family Sunday takes place several times a year and has included gallery tours and creative sessions. Check the library’s website for current exhibitions and event dates before setting out.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the State Library of New South Wales free to enter?
Yes. Entry to the library and its exhibitions is free.
How long should I spend at the State Library of New South Wales?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours to see the Mitchell Library spaces and browse exhibitions.
Are there guided tours at the State Library of New South Wales?
A free tour led by volunteer guides runs on Fridays at noon.
Is the State Library of New South Wales suitable for children?
Yes. The library has areas for children and schedules activities such as school-holiday workshops, drop-in sessions and tours. Family Sunday events take place several times a year.
