State Library of New South Wales (with kids)
State Library of New South Wales is 87% Kids-Friendly
What are the highlights at State Library of New South Wales (with kids)?
- Free hands-on spaces for kids under 5 and school-age children
- Self-guided trails and audio guides to keep kids exploring
- Monthly Family Sundays and holiday tours with crafts and stories
- Pram-friendly access and accessible facilities for all ages
- Nearby Royal Botanic Gardens for extended outdoor fun
How Kids-Friendly is State Library of New South Wales?
Activity trails, craft Sundays, a digital Learning Centre and tolerant staff keep 5-12-year-olds busy, with accessible toilets easing supervision for parents.
Considerations for visiting State Library of New South Wales (with kids)
Positives:
- Free Wi-Fi and seating: Use the Library’s free Wi-Fi and quiet reading areas to rest or check maps.
- Pram-friendly access: Wide ramps and lifts allow easy movement with strollers throughout the Mitchell Building.
- Accessible facilities: Find baby-change stations and accessible toilets on the ground floor.
Challenges:
- Noise restrictions: Keep voices low in reading rooms to respect other visitors.
- Limited café seating: The pop-up café can get busy; consider bringing snacks or sitting outside.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to explore exhibits, visit the Family Room, complete the kids’ trail and enjoy a snack.
Kids-Friendly Activities in State Library of New South Wales
Mitchell Building Family Room:
Drop-in play area with books, games and puppets for under-5s.
Tip: Go early when seating is available and join the librarian storytime.
John B Fairfax Learning Centre:
Hands-on digital and craft stations for school-age kids.
Tip: Try the interactive screens and building blocks to spark creativity.
Self-guided Kids Activity Trail:
Follow a free map to discover highlights like convict chains and bird whistles.
Tip: Pick up the trail brochure at the front desk and use the Kids’ Audio Guide.
Family Sundays:
Monthly events with crafts, storytelling and hands-on games.
Tip: Check the Library calendar online and arrive early to grab seats.
School-holiday Family Tours:
Free guided tours featuring First Nations stories and special exhibits.
Tip: Book in advance during NSW school holidays for best availability.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entry fees | AUD 0 |
| Café snacks & drinks | AUD 20 |
| Optional Backstage Pass tour | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 40 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit State Library of New South Wales?
Visit during school holidays for extra guided tours. In July, enjoy NAIDOC Week craft activities in the Family Room.
How to Maximize Your Visit to State Library of New South Wales
- Download the Kids’ Audio Guide: Preload the audio guide on your phone to keep kids engaged on the trail.
- Combine with nearby parks: Walk to the Royal Botanic Gardens after your visit for outdoor play and a picnic.
- Arrive early on weekends: Beat the crowds and secure space in the Family Room before midday.
Map of State Library of New South Wales
Address: 1 Shakespeare Pl, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
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Reviews of State Library of New South Wales
Keane Wee
The State Library of New South Wales is a gem in the heart of Sydney. The place offers a free exhibition for anyone looking to admire beautiful pieces of art on concrete walls. The interior is really beautiful especially the middle of it, where you can sit and study for hours on end till you don’t want to anymore. Unfortunately, the stairs to head upstairs were closed off for some reason but I rea...
Alice Moon-Star
Stunning Library and museum with free entry. The library looked like a place Harry Potter would find his books to cast spells. There were several museum room displays and a map room. Great place for research. The kids playroom was very good and there was an array of modern toys and books including a dolls house.
Map Roy
I absolutely loved visiting the State Library! I found that there was so much to do there. It is not just a place to study and read books. There are a number of levels and many rooms to explore. One part of the library contains an art gallery, while another has historical Australian and British artefacts. At the time of my visit, the World Press photography competition was showing too. I found it ...
Julio Yanes
The State Library of New South Wales is an absolute gem in the heart of Sydney. I wasn’t expecting to spend as much time as I did, but this place completely drew me in. The building itself is stunning—especially the historic Mitchell Wing with its grand interiors, classic reading rooms, and beautiful architectural details. It has this quiet, timeless atmosphere that makes you want to sit, read, re...
naveen lobo
Amazing place where you can find history The map on the floor of the entry way is a glimpse into the past and the ways that map-making has advanced in the last two centuries Steeped in history and with an ever changing gallery, the library is a great place to go to experience some local flavor. The main library room is absolutely breath taking, especially if you actually manage to make it insid...
About State Library of New South Wales
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 2 9273 1414See available options
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