Library tours | National Library of Australia (NLA)

Library tours

Whether this is your first visit to your National Library, or one of many, you can learn more about the history of our building, our services, and explore our behind-the-scenes spaces by joining a free guided tour.
Volunteer Library tour guide smiling and greeting a tour group, made up of people of various ages, in the foyer.

Daily tours

Free daily tours are run by our trained Volunteer Guides who have a passion for storytelling.

  • Step into the stacks and explore our behind-the-scenes areas
  • Uncover the history of the National Library
  • Learn how you can access the collection, that is yours and growing

This tour is suitable for all ages, however, children under the age of 16 must have a parent or guardian with them at all times.  

This tour involves a significant amount of walking. Please contact volunteering@nla.gov.au ahead of your tour and let us know if you have any mobility needs.

Where and when

The tour departs daily* from the Foyer at 11 am and takes 45 minutes. 

The tour will depart promptly at 11 am. To avoid delays, please put any large bags into a locker on LG1 before the tour commences.  

*Tours are subject to volunteer guide availability. In the event of a cancellation, ticket holders will be advised as soon as possible.  

Bookings

Tours are free. You can book online or walk-up on the day (pending existing tour size and availability). 

Book a ticket to the Discover your National Library tour

Group bookings

For groups larger than 10 people, please contact us directly at volunteering@nla.gov.au.

A minimum of 2 weeks notice is required for group bookings.

Page published: 05 Feb 2026

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