Ask a Librarian

Need help with your research? Have a question that you can’t find the answer to? Ask a Librarian! We love to help!

Ask a Librarian

Library Q&A:

I’m having trouble accessing an eresource at home. What can I do?

Most eresources can be used at home but some are only accessible in the Library. Look for the library building with a card icon to see if the eresources is accessible from home.

Try clearing your cookies and cache, then restart your browser.

Still not able to access? Contact Ask a Librarian with your Library card number and the eresource name and we’ll do our best to help.

Remember you need to be a New South Wales resident and have a Library card or a registered NSW public library card from a participating library to use the Library's eresources at home.

I’ve requested a book but I won’t be able to come in today. Do I need to re-request?

The book that you've requested will be available to collect and use for seven days. After seven days, you will need to request the book again.

See Using the Library’s collections for more information.

I’ve requested some books from offsite storage. When will the books be ready to collect?

Books and other collection material requested from offsite storage are available after 4 pm the next working day.

Offsite material is not delivered to the Library on weekends and public holidays.

Can I borrow books from the Library through my public library?

Yes, you can borrow books from the Library’s collections through your public, academic or work library. Other items such as DVDs can also be borrowed but only through your public library. Some books and other collection material are not able to be borrowed.

See the Interlibrary Lending Policy for more information.

Can I use Ancestry Library Edition from home?

Ancestry Library Edition is only accessible at the Library. You can access Ancestry on a Library computer in the Governor Marie Bashir Reading Room or on your own device using the Library's free wi-fi.