State Library of New South Wales

Situated in a neo-classical building with modern extensions, the State Library of New South Wales is a must see for library fans. Its main reading room is attractive, if a little too pale and in need of more warmth. There are several galleries to visit, including one that has a remarkable collection of historical portraits of people who left their mark on Australian history. There's also a cafeteria that has decent food at reasonable prices and a shop that sells books and souvenirs.

A good place for students to study. Axqiluite place to be. At the second floor there was a exhibit of mostly oil paintings well preserved.
A must visit when visiting Sydney.
The State Library serves for research and learning of the literature and culture that spans for centuries.

Visited the State Library of New South Wales near the Royal Botanic Garden. It's an awesome library experience with a wide, quiet area for studying. Loved the traditional vibe, and they have plugs at every table and free drinking water. Outside food or drinks it’s not allowed. Great spot and worth it for studying in central Sydney.

Whenever I am in Sydney I visit this most interesting place. They always put on fascinating exhibitions and the gallery of paintings contains some very interesting paintings.
The cafe there has a good range of items on the menu and there is a very good shop there too.
You could easily spend a couple of hours exploring this place

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!

Very quiet, a good place for students to study. What surprised me was that there was an exhibition hall upstairs that preserved many historical oil paintings. The employees were very friendly and polite. Photography is allowed here, but lighting equipment is not allowed. You can also enter with backpacks and trolley cases.

Fabulous old building. The library has a glass ceiling and has wonderful light. It was so nice to see so many people actually there studying and using the facilities. There is a gallery upstairs well worth a look and exhibitions run on a regular basis. We ran out of time to do everything but will definitely be back.

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. 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.

A truly a historical time capsule.
The antiquated study area (Hogwarts exam looking hall) creates a sense of awe and inspiration. A great preservation of real library culture, with very helpful librarians and gallery guides.
You cannot borrow from this library, as I believe it is mostly archived and reserved items, but you can use some items for study depending on the section.

There are also ample quiet study areas in the modern library's (Mitchell buildings) section attached.
Free lockers for library members and chilled free water and bubblers, also some of the best air con I have found in Sydney's recent heat wave. Hot tip, go to the lowest level to get the best chilling experience, sometimes they also have art installations down there.
This library is a short stroll down to the Botanic Gardens and the NSW art gallery, easy to access from Martin Place, Wynyard or St James stations and seems to be open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

State library of new south wales is a wonderful place to go when you need some quiet and want to leant something.

It’s very quiet and peaceful you could hear a pin drop.

Lots of amazing galleries and exhibitions to see

One of the gems of Sydney. Neo classical building in first class condition housing some superb collections. The main reading room was recently totally restored and there is also the Shakespeare room, various galleries, exhibitions and one of the oldest art galleries from early Australia.
It is only across the street from the Botanical gardens and also on Macquarie St, very historic part of Sydney.

The library is housed in a beautiful building. You are able to wander around the floors.
There are a number of galleries that contain works of art that you can explore.
The library has toilets and on the lowest floor there is a shop.
It is fully accessible to people who have a disability.

Great library that actually has a museum lots to do and see, check out the Shakespeare room

Fascinating building in neoclassical style. You can find a few exhibition ad well as a very large and extremely beautiful reading room with a glass ceiling and a lot of desks. Many little rooms to be visited song the building. Definitely worth a visit.

Today, I went to the State Library of NSW, which left me in awe. It offers a serene atmosphere ideal for studying and reading. Also, for those with children, there is a designated room where they can read books and play. The historical architecture of the entire building is stunning, and it sits right across the Botanical Garden, adding to the list of beautiful places to visit in Sydney. I strongly suggest paying a visit there!

Finally explored more of this amazing place. The map room, shakespeare room and art exhibits upstairs. Beautiful.

I first joined the State Library of NSW in 2015. I was very impressed with the rules and regulations in place at the time. I had my carry bag examined by security each time I visited. I have to admit it was only required for certain parts of the library but even so I felt that the security was justified. I even managed to purchase a set of tea - towels which I still have, from the library shop. That was way back when I first was introduced to the library situation. Everyone was very quiet and studious as I remember. The staff have always been very helpful and succinct in their directions. I really do appreciate staff in an establishment that are not there to socialise. Mind you the State Library is a serious enterprise. Recently I visited only to find the computers have been upgraded and so has the layout of the interior landscape. I wish the State Library of NSW a future of dedication and essential research for all visitors and citizens. Sincerely, Thomas Stevens.

Beautiful Library. Amazing galleries. They are showing right now a fascinating gallery called: Kill or Cure full of comprehensive displays of old medicinal practices. Another beautiful gallery is one called Imagine that is catered for kids displaying books for kids, seated areas, drawings, book narrations. We walked around and spent about two hours walking around town. highly recommended.

Wonderful old building, calm & silent inside in spite of the crowd/students & researchers. Comfortable chairs, table, PowerPoint to recharcharge. I had some inquiries & all the staff Kathi, Alson & Luke who issued my membership card were helpful, friendly & approachable. I will consider to go there when I need to read, study & research. Nowadays Council libraries are sometimes noisy but State Library is different & elegant like old days.

Beautiful library and it was such a nice space to spend a day in! I also visited the map rooms where there are so many cool old maps with history. Totally worth a visit