State Library of New South Wales - Sydney, New South Wales

Address: 1 Shakespeare Pl, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.
Phone: 292731414.
Website: sl.nsw.gov.au
Specialties: Public library, Library.
Other points of interest: Onsite services, Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Paid parking garage.
Opinions: This company has 1224 reviews on Google My Business.
Average opinion: 4.6/5.

📌 Location of State Library of New South Wales

☎️292731414

⏰ Open Hours of State Library of New South Wales

Monday: 9 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 9 AM–8 PM
Friday: 9 AM–5 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–5 PM
Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM

State Library of New South Wales: A Comprehensive Overview

The State Library of New South Wales, located at 1 Shakespeare Pl, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia, is a magnificent institution that has been a hub of knowledge and culture for over two centuries. Established in 1826, it has grown to become one of the most important libraries in the country, housing an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, photographs, and artworks.

Features and Services

Public Library: With its vast collection of books, the library caters to the diverse needs of the public, from students and researchers to casual readers seeking a good book to lose themselves in.
Library Services: The library offers a range of services, including reading rooms, research facilities, and digital resources, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking information on Australian history, culture, and society.

Points of Interest

Onsite Services: Visitors can enjoy a variety of onsite services, including a café, a shop selling books and souvenirs, and several small art exhibitions showcasing the library's extensive collection.
Accessibility: The library is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all visitors, with wheelchair accessible entrances, parking lots, and facilities throughout the building. Paid parking is available in the nearby garage.

Opinions and Reviews

The State Library of New South Wales has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with a 4.6/5 average rating based on 1224 reviews on Google My Business. Many visitors praise the library for its impressive collection, beautiful architecture, and welcoming atmosphere.

One visitor noted, "A magnificent library that has it all This beautiful building is not only a public library but has several small art exhibitions, a café, shop, and plenty of space to hang out and relax in." Another reviewer commented on the quality and scope of the exhibitions, stating, "The exhibitions were impressive in their quality and scope. The library's permanent collection has many paintings of Australian landscapes and historical figures."

Recommendation

If you're looking for a place to explore Australian history, culture, and the arts, the State Library of New South Wales is an absolute must-visit. With its extensive collection, welcoming atmosphere, and onsite services, it's a destination that truly has something for everyone. To learn more about the library's exhibits, services, and events, be sure to visit their official website. To speak with a staff member directly, you can reach them by phone at 292731414.

👍 Reviews of State Library of New South Wales

State Library of New South Wales - Sydney, New South Wales

Samantha D.

5/5

A magnificent library that has it all! This beautiful building is not only a public library, but has several small art exhibitions, a cafe, shop, and plenty of space to hang out and relax in. The exhibitions were impressive in their quality and scope. The library's permanent collection has many paintings of Australian landscapes and historical figures. Some of the newer exhibits, such as the one on Internment Camps, were informative and well curated.

Elaine M.

5/5

New South Wales State Library has so much going on that you could visit it a million times and still discover something new. I went to the cafe, which was excellent, I only had a drink, but, the salads looked terrific too. I visited the oil painting collection, which was extensive, and the audio tour and video about restoration are a must. The Peter Kingston exhibit is also excellent. I used the communal workspace, which is bright and airy, and the shop is full of delightful things. The rooftop bar and toasties also deserve special mention, it is such a special atmosphere.

jj Z.

5/5

The State Library is not only a library, but also an art gallery and various interesting special and temporary exhibitions, the number of which exceeded my expectations. The collection of landscapes and figures is a permanent exhibition, and you can log in to the website on your mobile phone to listen to the audio introduction, which is free. There are also some interesting temporary exhibitions with different themes.

Lockie H.

5/5

What a lovely library. Of course, any library with a bar on the roof is delightful. (I reviewed that separately). But the library itself is gorgeous. You are greeted with a very knowledgeable person at reception, and there is a beautiful reading room. The real treat, however, is downstairs, where there is a mini-museum of sorts. Wonderful photographs and artifacts of the history of Sydney. Really quite unexpected. We actually went downstairs looking for the reading room and stumbled upon all of the photographs and artifacts. What a treat! I’m a library fan, being a writer, and feel very comfortable among stacks. I have reviewed a few other libraries around the world, but this one… this one feels special. It is now in my top 10 libraries of the world. It’s not overly grand, but it has grand elements. It still feels approachable, and again, with the pleasant people at reception and the bar on the roof, this library becomes well worth a visit!
Were I to live in Sydney for a longer period, I would love to have dived into the stacks and done some research or writing and the reading room.

Amos S.

5/5

A grand complex sprawling several halls. The air within the state library exudes tradition blended the modern technology of everyone’s gadgets. Apart from the reading and study rooms, there are also areas designated for galleries and exhibition purposes. A really nice place to spend some time and appreciate the architecture too.

Dov F.

5/5

The original building is just stunning and it’s as much an art gallery / exhibition space as a library. It’s totally worth an afternoon to see all of the galleries. I loved the map room. We saw an excellent exhibit on the Dunera. The massive reading room is epic.

Kamal K.

5/5

The State Library of New South Wales is a stunning place to visit! The architecture is breathtaking, blending history and modern design seamlessly.

The reading spaces are quiet and comfortable, perfect for studying or exploring.

A must-visit for book lovers, researchers, and anyone seeking inspiration in Sydney!

Firoz A.

5/5

The State Library of New South Wales, situated in Sydney, stands as a cultural beacon, enriching knowledge and preserving heritage. Established in 1826, it holds a vast collection of books, manuscripts, artworks, and historical documents, making it a significant repository of Australian and international history.

Feels like this place is an underrated museum!! They have amazing exhibitions and collections! While I absolutely enjoyed my visit in peace and quiet, I wish more people would come and appreciate the hard work!

With its majestic Mitchell Library, diverse exhibitions, and commitment to education, the State Library serves as a dynamic space for research, learning, and the celebration of literature and culture, inviting visitors to explore the wealth of information that spans centuries within its historic walls!