State Library of Queensland, Brisbane

A photograph of State Library of Queensland — Photograph · Kgbo · CC BY-SA 4.0

Per person	Free entry

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Today: Hours not recorded
Visit duration: 1 hr 30 min
Accessibility: Step-free
Price: Free entry
Standing: Must see
Rank: Rank 24 of 9,969

Plan a day around this Map

About State Library of Queensland

State Library of Queensland is the principal reference and research library of the state, located in the Queensland Cultural Centre on the South Bank of the Brisbane River. It occupies a prominent riverside position adjacent to the Queensland Museum and Queensland Art Gallery. The building features distinctive modern architecture with open public spaces. It serves as both a heritage repository and contemporary cultural institution, holding significant collections relating to Queensland history and Australian literature. Different spaces keep separate hours.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What's inside

The library contains multiple reading rooms, exhibition spaces, and specialist collections. The John Oxley Library holds historical materials documenting Queensland's development. The Australian Library of Art includes rare books and manuscripts. Public areas include the Infozone with computer access, and the kuril dhagun Indigenous Knowledge Centre. There are study spaces, meeting rooms, and areas for quiet contemplation. The building incorporates the Queensland Terrace with river views. Temporary exhibitions rotate through dedicated gallery spaces. Different spaces keep separate hours. Different spaces keep separate hours. Closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Anzac Day hours are 12:00–17:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

How long to spend

Visitors typically spend between ninety minutes and half a day depending on purpose. Casual visitors exploring exhibitions and architecture may complete a walkthrough in under two hours. Researchers and those engaging with specialist collections or attending programs should allow substantially longer. The building rewards unhurried exploration of its spatial design and riverside positioning. Those combining the visit with adjacent cultural institutions should plan accordingly. Individual pacing varies considerably based on interest in library functions versus broader cultural engagement.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Season and crowds

Visitors should consult the official website for current opening times before planning. The library's riverside location means afternoon visits may offer favourable light for exterior appreciation. Climate considerations for Brisbane suggest morning visits during warmer months for comfort when approaching on foot. Special events and exhibition openings may affect typical visiting patterns. Infozone: Mon–Thu 09:00–20:00; Fri 09:00–17:00; Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00. State Reference Library: Mon–Thu 10:00–20:00; Fri–Sun 10:00–17:00. slq Gallery: Mon–Fri 09:00–17:00; Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00. John Oxley Library and Philip Bacon Heritage Gallery: daily 10:00–17:00. Public holidays: State Library spaces 10:00–17:00.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Tickets

Special exhibitions, events, or programs may involve separate ticketing arrangements. Visitors should verify current policies through official channels. Any fees for specific services such as reproduction requests or specialist research assistance would apply to targeted use rather than general visitation. Membership requirements for borrowing privileges differ from casual visitor access. Commercial photography permits may involve separate arrangements. Free general access; State Library describes access as free and equitable, and its public exhibition spaces and artworks are available at no cost. Individually programmed events may carry separate booking conditions. All entrances and public areas at the South Bank building are wheelchair accessible.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Getting there

The library is situated in the Queensland Cultural Centre precinct at South Bank, accessible from Brisbane's central business district via the Victoria Bridge. Public transport options include bus services to the Cultural Centre station and train to South Brisbane station. Walking and cycling paths follow the riverfront. Cultural Centre Busway Station on Melbourne Street is 260 metres away. South Brisbane Station, at Melbourne and Grey Streets, is 500 metres away. The nearest CityCat and City Ferry terminals are South Bank, 800 metres away, and North Quay, 1 kilometre away. The Stanley Place entrance provides underground parking and a taxi or rideshare drop-off point.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

What to watch out for

The library operates as a working research institution; noise levels and behaviour expectations differ from typical tourist venues. Some collection areas may have restricted access requiring advance arrangement. Bag restrictions may apply in certain zones. The riverside location means weather conditions can affect approaches and outdoor spaces. School groups and programmed events may create variable crowding patterns. All entrances and public areas at the South Bank building are wheelchair accessible. Wheelchair-height information desks and accessible public computers are provided. Accessible toilets with tactile and braille signage are available on every level.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Photography

Photography policies vary across the institution. Flash photography is typically prohibited near heritage items. Commercial or promotional photography requires prior authorisation. Visitors should observe posted signage and staff direction regarding current permissions. The building's design offers photographic interest through its spatial volumes and river outlook. Respect for other users' privacy and concentration must guide any photography activity. Specific exhibition photography rights depend on individual lender requirements and copyright status. Accessible toilets with tactile and braille signage are available on every level. Auditorium 1 has a hearing loop; portable hearing loops are available in several venues on request.

Checked 2026-08-31 · Source

Common questions

Is State Library membership required to use a public computer?

No membership is required for Level 1 computers, which may be used for up to three hours daily. Computers on Levels 2 and 3 require membership.

Is free Wi-Fi available?

Yes. The slqwireless network is free throughout the South Bank building, operates 24 hours a day and does not require membership.

Where may visitors eat and drink?

Food and drink are allowed on Level 1, in the Infozone and in outdoor areas on Levels 2–4. Bottled water is permitted in reading rooms on every level.

Is there a cloakroom?

Yes. A cloakroom for small bags and belongings is available at the Level 1 Welcome Desk, and deposited items must be collected when leaving.

May visitors take photographs?

Non-flash photography and filming for private purposes are permitted unless a restriction is displayed. Tripods, monopods, gimbals and lighting equipment are not permitted.

Are baby-changing facilities available?

Yes. The parents room behind the Level 1 Welcome Desk has baby-changing facilities, an accessible toilet, seating and a microwave.