About the Library

About the Library

The State Library collects and preserves materials and evidence relating to our place in the world and makes them accessible to everyone in New South Wales and beyond.

Your State Library

Everyone is welcome at the Library – our inspiring spaces, rich collections, galleries, and cultural and learning programs are open to all. 

 

A group of children and adults on a Library tour.

Strategic Plan

We’re turning the Library inside out to better serve the changing needs of our diverse communities.

Cover of State Library NSW Strategic Plan 2019-23

Major Building Plan

Learn about our plans to make our much-loved Library fully accessible and more enjoyable to all.

Mitchell Library Building exterior

History of the Library

The State Library began as a small subscription library in the 1820s for colonials who were desperate to read books.

Library desk, Reading Room, Mitchell Building

Library Council

Meet the members of the governing body of the State Library.

The Hon George Souris AM on the steps of the historic Mitchell building.

Library Executive

Meet the Executive team who are responsible for managing the Library, its collections, services and programs.

State Librarian Caroline Butler-Bowdon

The Foundation

The Foundation is the principal fundraising body for the State Library of NSW.

Audience members sitting in chairs listening

Our cultural partners

Learn about our cultural institution partners.

Sydney Opera House

Media Centre

Find the State Library's latest media releases, download publicity images, view expert profiles and request an interview or film shoot.

Media interviewing State Library curator Maggie Patton.

Publications

Here you'll find the Library's  Annual Reports, Openbook magazine, staff papers and legal publication Hot Topics.

Openbook autumn

Tenders

Information about current tender opportunities

State Library NSW at night

Protection of cultural objects on loan

Find information about the Library’s responsibilities as an approved borrowing institution. 

Two people hanging a painting on a purple wall

Jobs at the State Library

Find out the latest job opportunities at the State Library

Two women showing large books to seated men

School Work Experience Program

The Library is pleased to offer work experience opportunities to students in years 10, 11 and 12. 

Three students

Awards & fellowships

Awards

The Library’s vibrant awards program continues to bring together writers and readers to celebrate and promote excellence in literature and history.

Image for awards

Fellowships

The Library offers a number of prestigious and competitive fellowships to support the study, writing and teaching of Australian history and culture.

Man standing behind desk in room with many bookshelves and papers

Using the Library

Legislation and policies

The Library's policies inform our services and programs, and provide guidelines on practical matters such as accessing the collections, copyright and photocopying.

Person reading paper in cafe

Services

Find out about the Library's wide range of services that are free for visitors and NSW residents.

woman discussing map with two people

Access & Inclusion

The Library is for people of all abilities to access and engage with its facilities and services. 

Macquarie Street building foyer and entrance