Discover Collections
Discover Collections takes you on an online exploration of selected highlights of the Library's rich historical and contemporary collections. Encounter wonderful historical treasures and read intriguing stories about our history, environment, society and culture. Discover unique maps, paintings and photographs, letters and personal journals, books and newspapers representing just a small selection from the State Library's collections of over five million items.
Intrigued by what you find? Then delve deeper into the Library's collections via the links to related online material, exhibitions and additional resources for education, research and personal interest.
The generosity of the Library's supporters has enabled the development of these online collections by supporting the expansion of our digitisation program.
Discover Collections highlights the Library's role as a cultural destination and a proactive partner in knowledge creation.
Indigenous Australians are advised that Discover Collections may include images or names of people now deceased.
| In development | Benefactor / Partner | |
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The Holtermann CollectionAn internationally significant collection of photographs of goldfield towns in New South Wales and Victoria and views of Sydney and Melbourne, captured between 1871-1876 |
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| Recent additions | Benefactor / Partner | |
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Botanica: illustrating the exoticBotanica: illustrating the exotic explores the history and tradition of published European botanical illustration and the rage for Australian plants. Examples from the State Library's collections of early printed books range from 16th century herbals to the detailed scholarly plates produced in the 18th and early 19th centuries. |
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From Terra Australis to AustraliaExplore the unrivalled collections of journals, logbooks, letters, paintings, drawings and books documenting the adventures and achievements of the first British settlers in Australia. |
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Eureka! The Rush for GoldThe gold rushes and the diggers who worked the goldfields are etched into Australian folklore. Follow the story of the people who sought the glittering prize. |
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