“Lost already?” someone asks. The State Library of NSW stands before you. It is more than just books. It is a treasure trove of history and stories.
The State Library of NSW is the oldest library in Australia. Its roots stretch back to 1826. A group of wealthy Sydney citizens started the Australian Subscription Library.
In 1869, the NSW Government bought it. They paid 5,100 pounds. It then became the Sydney Free Public Library. This was a library for all the people of NSW. In 1895, it was renamed the Public Library of New South Wales. The name changed again in 1975. It became the State Library of New South Wales.
The Mitchell Library is part of the State Library. It is special. It only collects Australian content. The Mitchell Library opened in 1910. David Scott Mitchell collected Australiana. He left it to the people of NSW. He wanted it to be known as the Mitchell Library.
Walter Liberty Vernon designed the Mitchell Wing. H. C. L. Anderson assisted him. Construction lasted from 1905 to 1910. Howie Bros added more in 1939. FWC Powell & Sons made additions in 1959. Mellocco Bros added to it in 1964.
The Macquarie Street Wing started in 1983. It opened in 1988. Queen Elizabeth II opened it.
The State Library holds millions of items. There are over 2 million books. It also has 1.2 million microforms. You can find 1.1 million photographs. There are newspapers and maps. Architectural plans and manuscripts are here too.
The library collects items related to Australia. It obtains them by purchasing material. It also uses legal deposit. This is for all books published in New South Wales.
The State Library of NSW is special. It has a unique cultural institution. Its collection is internationally renowned.
Step inside the Mitchell Library Reading Room. Also see the Shakespeare Room. They show beautiful architecture. The Library Shop sells Australiana books. You can buy fine art prints. Cafe Trim is open every day.
The State Library also has an underground gallery. It features the Shot photographic exhibition. This shows three decades of Australian life. There is also a First Nations exhibition. It is called Wadgayawa Nhay Dhadjan Wari. Thirty belongings reflect Indigenous ways of life.
Did you know there is a rooftop bar? The Library Bar offers craft beer and wine. You can also order cocktails. It serves dishes that celebrate NSW produce. The bar has views of Hyde Park. You can also see the city skyline.
The State Library of NSW has a long history. It has connections to important people. They include Walter Liberty Vernon and David Scott Mitchell. The library reflects changing ideas about library planning. It is a recognised symbol of Sydney.
The State Library of NSW continues to serve the community. It provides library services to New South Wales. It also offers online services. These include access to electronic resources for NSW residents. The library enriches the community. It is a valuable resource for everyone. So, next time you seek knowledge or a quiet escape, remember the State Library of NSW. It is waiting to be explored.