State Library of New South Wales
1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Function Venue
•The Library has venues to accommodate 10 to 500 people, available for seminars and conferences, corporate and government events, product and book launches.
Reviews for State Library of New South Wales
Edrea Panugan
Visiting the NSW State Library was an incredible experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the grandeur of the building—it's a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern design. The Mitchell Library Reading Room, with its soaring ceilings and classic timber furnishings, felt like stepping back in time. It was both peaceful and inspiring, a rare combination that made it easy to lose myself in a good book or deep research for hours. The collections and exhibitions were a real highlight. I was amazed at the range of materials available, from rare historical documents and manuscripts to beautifully curated displays showcasing Australia's cultural and literary history. One of the exhibitions I saw featured original letters and photos from early explorers, which brought a real sense of connection to the past. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming, always happy to point me in the right direction or recommend something new to explore. Beyond just books and exhibits, the overall atmosphere of the library was calm and welcoming, perfect for studying, reading, or simply taking a break from the busy city outside. The onsite café was a pleasant surprise too—great coffee and quiet spaces to relax. I left feeling not only more informed but genuinely uplifted by the experience. I’d highly recommend the NSW State Library to anyone visiting Sydney or locals who haven’t explored it yet—it's a true gem.
Marky mark
Great spot to visit whether you’re a tourist or a local. I came here just to get some work done and ended up being blown away by the place. The building is stunning, the main reading room has an amazing atmosphere, and the stained glass throughout the library is genuinely beautiful. Upstairs they had a paper origami area when I visited, which was a fun and unexpected touch. The whole space feels calm, inspiring and well looked after. It’s one of those places you don’t realise is this impressive until you actually walk inside. Highly recommend dropping in.
Min Min
The State Library of New South Wales is one of Sydney’s most remarkable cultural landmarks. Its historical architecture is breathtaking—grand sandstone facades, elegant reading rooms, and intricate design details that reflect its long legacy. Walking through the building feels like stepping back in time, yet it still serves as a vibrant and relevant institution today. Inside, the atmosphere is serene and very quiet, making it the perfect place to study, read, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The soaring ceilings, ornate columns, and carefully preserved heritage features create a space that’s not only functional but also deeply inspiring. Beyond its beauty, the library houses vast collections, exhibitions, and resources that showcase the history and culture of New South Wales. It’s a destination where architecture, knowledge, and tranquillity come together, and it’s easily one of the most beautiful public spaces in the city.
Nina
I’ve been to a few other libraries, and this one is the best. I love spending time here—it’s quiet and peaceful. Unfortunately, I noticed that some of the security staff were too rough and strict for example with an older man who was eating while using the computer. They were not relaxed and did not treat him with respect. It feels like we were being watched. Because of this, I’m taking away one star.
s vivekananda
It's a large heritage listed special collections, reference and research library open to the public. It's one of the oldest libraries in Australia and was established in 1869. Original building was designed in classic Rococo style and is very attractive to see from inside and outside. It is open 7 days a week and public can study there, borrow books and use the computer. There are toilets and an excellent ground floor cafe on the ground floor in the annexe building. Parking is difficult here so advisable to take public transport. Popular place with locals and tourists.
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