About State Library of NSW
The State Library of NSW is Australia's oldest library, located on Macquarie Street in central Sydney overlooking the Royal Botanic Garden and Sydney Harbour. Established in 1826, it comprises the historic Mitchell Library and modern Library buildings. It holds extensive collections of Australiana, books, manuscripts, maps and artworks, and presents free exhibitions, galleries and public programs for visitors.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore grand heritage reading rooms including the Mitchell Library Reading Room, free permanent and temporary exhibitions on Australian history and culture, galleries displaying paintings, photographs and manuscripts, and modern study spaces. The building offers harbour and Domain views, a cafe, shop, and guided tours. The setting is central Sydney adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden, Parliament House and the Domain.
Key highlights
- 01
Mitchell Library Reading Room with heritage architecture
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Free exhibitions including Paintings from the Collection and Amaze Gallery
- 03
Extensive Australiana collections, manuscripts, maps and photographs
- 04
Historic Mitchell Building (1910) and modern Macquarie Street Building
- 05
Views over the Royal Botanic Garden and Sydney Harbour precinct