The State Library of NSW | Book a session at the Mitchell Library Reading Room

The State Library of NSW | Book a session in the Mitchell Library Reading Room 

The Mitchell Library Reading Room in the Mitchell building is open to the public with limited services and reduced hours, from 10 am to 6 pm, Monday - Friday.

Access is via the Mitchell Building entrance on Shakespeare Pl. 

Once you have secured your booking, please ensure to bring your booking ticket with the QR code for entry. This can be a printed copy or displayed on your mobile device. The ticket will be emailed to you after you register for a session. 

Please Note: This ticket is for a seat in the Mitchell Library Reading Room where you can study and access the free wi-fi (using your own devices). If you are wishing to access collection material please book a seat in the Special Collections area.

Session Times 

Morning session: 10 am to 1.30 pm 

Afternoon session: 2.30 pm to 6 pm 

More information

To help plan your visit, please read our FAQ.

Special conditions of entry from Monday 1 June (Stage 1)

To ensure the health and safety of our readers, visitors and staff, we will be strictly complying with the NSW Health guidelines to protect everyone who comes through our doors. As a condition of entry, you must read and agree to the following conditions of entry: 

• if you are feeling unwell, please do not enter the building 

• readers and visitors exhibiting signs of illness may be asked to leave by Library staff or security 

• there is a limit of one person per online booking per day 

• please ensure that you have your booking confirmation with you when you arrive — either as a print-out or displayed on your phone 

• safe physical distancing of 1.5 metres must be maintained at all times, even if arriving with family or friends 

• you must not move the location of desks or chairs; you may leave your desk to go to other areas, but you must return to the desk that you initially occupied 

• readers and visitors who do not comply with physical distancing measures may be asked to leave by Library staff or security 

• you must exit the Library immediately at the end of your booked session so the reading rooms and other areas of the Library can be thoroughly cleaned 

• aggressive and abusive behaviour will not be tolerated — read our Reader and Visitor Code of Conduct