Where are the books?
What is a reference library
The National Library is a reference library. This means that while we have a lot of materials, like books, magazines, newspapers, maps, photos and other items, you can’t take them out of the reading rooms.
Our collection is massive and grows by 2.5 linear kilometres per year. We don’t have enough space to store it all in the library building in Parkes.
One of the reasons our collection is so huge, is that one copy of everything published in Australia is given to the National Library under the legal deposit provisions of the Copyright Act 1968.
By keeping a copy, the Library is preserving Australia's documentary heritage for future generations.
Where we store books
Most of the collection is kept in three offsite collection storage repositories. All of our collections are stored in secure and controlled areas to keep them in good condition.
We keep our collection in:
- secure, climate-controlled closed stacks onsite
- special offsite storage repositories
These areas are not open to the public.
By using strict preservation standards, we protect these important pieces of Australia’s history and culture. Learn more about how we preserve the collection.
How to access the collection
While you won’t find traditional shelves filled with books, to view specific items, you can request them using the catalogue. Our staff will bring it to a reading room for you to pick up.
When it arrives, you can read it in one of our designated reading rooms. These quiet, comfy spaces are perfect for reading and study.
Find out more about how to make a request.
Find books online
If you can't visit us in person, many of our books are available online. You can access them from anywhere, anytime through our catalogue or on Trove.
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