![Exterior of large building with blue lights](/sites/default/files/styles/landing_page_banner/public/Mithcell_Exterior.jpg?h=ad658410&itok=xOMWc_pu)
About
The State Library collects and preserves materials and evidence relating to our place in the world and makes them accessible to everyone in New South Wales and beyond.
About the Library
![A group of children and adults on a Library tour.](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/images/naigation-tiles/51393313_10157211734344268_4218701067803688960_o.jpg?itok=Dy68WlrB)
Your State Library
Everyone is welcome at the Library – our inspiring spaces, rich collections, galleries, and cultural and learning programs are open to all.
![Cover of State Library NSW Strategic Plan 2019-23](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/5283_strategic_plan_2019-23_booklet_cover_only.jpg?itok=yltkR7Su)
Strategic Plan
We’re turning the Library inside out to better serve the changing needs of our diverse communities.
![Library desk, Reading Room, Mitchell Building](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/landingpages/images/32331884447_11436f5af5_k.jpg?itok=awEdjifh)
History of the Library
The State Library of NSW began as a small subscription library in the 1820s for colonials who were desperate to read books. From these early beginnings it became the world class, global library it is today.
![Photograph of woman standing in library](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/EXEC_20240112_005_FINAL_4000px.jpg?itok=PxjYvnhc)
Library Executive
Meet the Executive team who are responsible for managing the Library, its collections, services and programs.
![Information and Access Indigeous Map](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/ai_130429_001_crop.jpg?itok=VNQrQ2HL)
Indigenous Engagement
The Indigenous Engagement Branch at the Library work to share and celebrate stories of Indigenous Australia and work closely with Indigenous communities.
![Macquarie Street building foyer and entrance](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/design_150610_019_cropped_1920x1080px.jpg?itok=n4SJg2vt)
Access and inclusion
The Library is for people of all abilities to access and engage with its facilities and services.
News and media
Awards & fellowships
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Awards
The Library’s vibrant awards program continues to bring together writers and readers to celebrate and promote excellence in literature and history.
![Richard Neville in curators office Man standing behind desk in room with many bookshelves and papers](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/BLD_091124_001.jpg?itok=kZGfL7Bt)
Fellowships
The Library offers a number of prestigious and competitive fellowships to support the study, writing and teaching of Australian history and culture.
Policies and publications
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Legislation and policies
The Library's policies inform our services and programs, and provide guidelines on practical matters such as accessing the collections, copyright and photocopying.
![Openbook autumn](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/landing-pages/tiles/home-page/full-screen-slider/image4.jpg?itok=SpUA8Run)
Publications
Here you'll find the Library's annual reports, Openbook magazine, staff papers and legal publication Hot Topics.
![Two people hanging a painting on a purple wall](/sites/default/files/styles/max_width_280/public/exhb_180827_098.jpg?itok=SfcSVCXQ)
Protection of cultural objects on loan
Find information about the Library’s responsibilities as an approved borrowing institution.
Venue hire
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Venue hire
Boasting the grand elegance of the historic Mitchell building and the modern versatility of the Macquarie Street building, the State Library is truly a unique venue.
Jobs and tenders
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School Work Experience Program
The Library is pleased to offer work experience opportunities to students in years 10, 11 and 12.