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The Library's reading rooms are open. Before you visit, please read Visiting the Library. 

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What’s got us talking

Aboriginal Lives Matter collecting call-out

We are currently collecting posters, protest signs, flyers and mail-outs connected to the Aboriginal Lives Matter events in NSW. 

Photo by Marley Morgan, peaceful Black Lives Matter protest in Coffs Harbour, 6 June 2020

The world turned upside down

A punchbowl made of silver is an unusual piece of tableware to commission for a three-year voyage in search of the elusive Great Southern Land.

A true place of belonging

As part of our vision to be 'A library where you don't need to fit in to belong', the State Library has published a new Accessibility Action Plan for 2020-23.

Keeping readers safe when visiting the Library

Here's what we're doing for the health and safety of our staff, readers and visitors.

Collection buzz

Evocative scenes of everyday life

The Library has recently acquired a unique oil painting by Australian artist Herbert Badham.

'The Town Band' by Herbert Badham

Limited edition photographic artists’ books

Three artists’ books — Signs & wonders by Stephen Dupont and Jacques Menasche, Farewell Angelina by Anna D’Addario and Duende by Peter Lyssiotis — were recently added to the Library’s collection.

An open book.

Researching the Pacific: The Pacific Manuscripts Bureau

We asked Kari James, Executive Officer of the Pacific Manuscripts Bureau, to answer some of your questions about the history, significance and future plans of this collection.

collage of images from The Pacific Manuscripts Bureau

Cook commemoration sparks 1970 protest

On 29 April 1970 protestors marched through Sydney's CBD before making their way to La Perouse. 

Tribune negatives including meeting of FCAATSI leaders at Sydney Town Hall and protestors at Day of Mourning memorial gathering and procession in Sydney, 28 April 1970-29 April 1970

The making of Slater’s Field Guide to Australian Birds

The Library has recently acquired the extraordinary archive of  Peter Slater, one of Australia’s best-known ornithologists.