The State Library of NSW

The State Library of NSW has something for everybody—we're talking a large selection of fun activities, learning programs, online resources and more. Their exciting holiday programs are also renowned for being ultra-engaging and interactive.

Kids & Families 

Introduce your family to the Library with a range of engaging, age-appropriate activities. Visit the Children’s Library, designed specifically for the youngest visitors, or join early learning programs or school holiday fun. There’s something for everyone!

Storytime

Hosted on the last Wednesday of each month from 10.30 – 11 am in the Children’s Library, Storytime sessions are a bonding experience for children and their carers, so why not plan a special day in the city and visit the BIG Library?

Family Sunday

Leave the devices at home and come into the Library for a day full of free fun. Family Sunday events are held on the third Sunday of every month (February - November).

School Holiday Programs

Looking for something to keep the kids busy during the holidays? The Library hosts a range of events for kids of all ages to enjoy.

Gallery and Exhibition Spaces

Find out more about the latest exhibitions and events here. For a family-friendly experience, explore the exhibitions and gallery spaces with the Kids Tour audio guide.

Kids’ Tour and Audio Guides

Join junior guide Olive for a tour of the Library, using the Bloomberg Connects app! As you explore the Library, Olive will share fun activities for young visitors to enjoy at every stop. Or enjoy an audio guide adventure of the Paintings from the Collection exhibition, created by kids, for kids.

Spaces at the Library 

The Children’s Library

Located in the Bashir Reading Room on Lower Ground 1 in the Macquarie Street Building, this is a space for young visitors to discover and enjoy the magic of books.

Family Room

Drop in to this vibrant space to enjoy books, games and activities curated for children under 5-years-old.

The Shakespeare Room

Visit a hidden corner of Tudor England in the centre of Sydney.

Spaces for Research and Study

Come in and explore the variety of spaces throughout the Library that are perfect for research or study. The Mitchell Library Reading Room and Bashir Reading Room provide the perfect quiet space for study. Visit the Special Collections area for help with research and to access the Library collections with the help of specialised librarians. Learn more about the Library’s spaces and plan your visit here.

The Library Cafe and Library Shop

Enjoy a bite to eat, catch up with friends or take time out to browse the Library Shop during your visit to the Library.

Learning

The Library provides a range of resources and programs for school and university students, teachers, families and lifelong learners. To learn more about these offerings, see the Library’s website.

Location
1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney, NSW, 2000

Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday: 9 am – 8 pm Friday: 9 am – 5 pm Weekends: 10 am – 5 pm
Some Library spaces have differing opening hours. Check opening hours to help with planning your visit!

Hero image: The State Library of NSW. Photo by Daniel Boud.

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