Leave a bequest
A gift in your will, no matter what size, will make a difference to the work of the Library.
Bequests play a transformational role in helping the Library to acquire, conserve and share our collections, offer free exhibitions and services, and run educational programs and fellowships.
Please consider making a long-term commitment to the future of our great Library through a bequest to the State Library of NSW Foundation.
How to leave a bequest
We know that making a gift in your will is a very important decision. If you would like to have a confidential conversation about our bequest program please contact Susan Hunt, Director of the State Library of NSW Foundation on 02 9273 1529 or foundation@sl.nsw.gov.au.
If you have already decided to include a gift in your will and need more information about different types of bequests, you can download our Bequests to the State Library of NSW brochure. Your bequest can take a variety of forms including a residual gift, a percentage of your estate, a specific amount, or assets such as shares, property, a book collection or work of art. We also recommend you speak to a solicitor about your intentions.
All bequests should be directed to the State Library of NSW Foundation. The State Library of NSW Foundation ABN is 76 343 150 267.
Acknowledging your gift
A bequest is a lasting legacy and we will recognise your gift in a number of ways, most particularly on our Honour Wall in the Mitchell building.
If you make a planned gift, we would like to take the opportunity to recognise your generosity in your lifetime by inviting you to join the Library Circle.
As a Library Circle member, you will meet like-minded people and will be kept in touch with our recent activities. You will also receive invitations to special Library events. You can choose to be publicly recognised on the Library Circle Honour Wall, in our Annual Report and on our website. You can also remain anonymous if you would prefer.
To find out more contact the State Library Foundation Director on 02 9273 1529 or email foundation@sl.nsw.gov.au.
Stories from our donors
We asked four of our wonderful donors to tell us about the role the Library has played in their lives and why they chose to give back. Listen to the personal stories below.
The impact of past bequests
Improving the depth of the collection with significant acquisitions
The earliest printed illustration of the Southern Cross by Andrea Corsali, c 1516
Purchased with a contribution from the Estate of the late Jack Brann, a longstanding Friend of the Library.
Queirós Memorial No. 1, 1607
Purchased with a contribution from the Estate of the late Tony Gilbert AM, a lover of reading and Shakespeare.
Rose de Freycinet journal
Captain James Wallis album
Purchased with a contribution from the Estate of the late Tony Gilbert AM.
John Hawkesworth's ‘Account of the voyages ...’
Purchased with a contribution from the Estate of the late Mimi (Mary Beatrice) Hurley.
Supporting innovative exhibitions and digital experiences
Living Language: Country, Culture, Community exhibition
Partially supported by the Estate of the late Jack Brann.
80hz: Sound Lab
Supported by the Estates of the late Isabel McKinnon, Brian Patrick Nolan and Lady Lowenthal.
Inaugural DX Lab Fellowship: Unstacked
Supported with bequest funds from the Estate of late Gerald Wronker, lawyer and lover of music and literature.
Supporting education and public programs for young people
WordeXpress
Supported with bequest funds from the Estate of the late Joy Marchant, a Friend and Custodian.
My Weekend with Pop
Supported with bequest funds from the Estate of the late Friend and volunteer Thelma Long.
Supporting literary awards and research
Mona Brand Award
Established by the Estate of Mona Brand, the trailblazing author, poet and playwright.
Russell Prize for Humour Writing
Established through the support of the Estate of the late Peter Wentworth Russell, farmer, businessman and passionate reader.
Reader in Residence
Supported by the Estate of the late Nancy Tuck, Friend, donor and volunteer.
Your gift to the State Library allows us to build, protect and share your heritage.