Requesting, collecting and reserving Library items
Where do you keep the books?
Stack
Most of our books and other collection items are kept out of sight in ‘stack’ storage. You need a Library card to request items to be collected from stack. This takes us up to 45 minutes. It may take longer if we have received a large number of requests.
See How can I request items? for more information.
Reference shelves
Some of our books and journals are on the Reference shelves in the Mitchell Library and in the State Reference Library on Lower Ground 1 and 2. The Library Catalogue will show if an item is on these shelves.
Offsite storage
We keep some of our collection in offsite storage in western Sydney.
When you request these items, they will be available after 4 pm the next working day in the Mitchell Library. There are no deliveries on weekends and public holidays but you can still request on these days.
How can I request items?
Books
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You can request books from stack or offsite storage through our Catalogue using your Library card. Don’t have a Library card? Sign up now.
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You can request items up to one hour before we close. Any requests made after this time will be ready one hour after we open the next day.
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You can request books up to seven days ahead of your visit. These will be ready an hour after the Library opens on the day of your visit.
Journals, newspapers, manuscripts and other items
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You can request these items by completing a stack request slip for each one. You will need a Library card. Hand in your completed slips at the Request desk.
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You can request items up to one hour before we close. Any requests made after this time will be ready one hour after we open the next day.
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You can call our Telephone Inquiry Service on (02) 9273 1414 during business hours to request items up to seven days ahead of your visit.
Where do I collect items?
State Reference Library items
Collect these items at the Request desk on Lower Ground 2 of the State Reference Library.
Mitchell Library and offsite storage items
Collect these items at the Request desk in the Mitchell Library.
Can I reserve an item to use again?
You can reserve items for up to seven days if you haven't finished using them. Take them to the Request desk.
