Register for a Readers card
You will need to be registered and hold a Reader's Card to access many State Library services and collections. The Reader's Card can also be used as a State Library Copy Card.
You will need a State Library Reader’s Card if you wish to:
- Access the research collections of the State Library of New South Wales. The State Library is a reference and research library and does not lend its collections directly to individuals.
- Access a wide range of electronic resources available in the Library, including the Internet and databases
- Access selected subscription databases from home (NSW residents only)
- Request advanced set aside of material and retrieval of material from offsite storage
- Access future services such as online ordering of images, document and interlibrary loans, personalised accounts and alert services.
A Blue Reader's Card will give you access to post 1980 Mitchell Library published items and State Reference Library services such as electronic resources and stack retrieval services. You can apply for a Blue Reader's Card.
A Gold Reader's Card: Special Collections will give you access to all of the collections covered by a Blue Reader's Card, plus manuscripts, pictures, oral history and rare maps and rare books from the Mitchell and Dixson Libraries and the State Reference Library. You can apply for a Gold Reader's Card online however you must visit the Library to collect your Gold Reader's Card.
You can apply for a Reader's Card at the Information desk in the State Reference Library or the Mitchell Library. Clients using the Family History service can apply at the Family History service desk. Please bring at least one form of ID preferably with an address or photo identification with you.
You can begin registration for a Reader's Card at the Library or wherever you have access to the Internet.
