National Library of Australia: A Treasury of the Nation
Explore Australia's stories and heritage at the National Library of Australia, a treasure trove of knowledge and culture in Canberra.
The National Library of Australia in Canberra is the country's largest reference library, holding a vast collection of Australian and international resources. It's a cultural landmark offering exhibitions, tours, and a deep dive into Australia's heritage and stories.
A brief summary to National Library of Australia
- Parkes Pl W, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
- +61262621111
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the National Library's website for upcoming events, exhibitions, and opening hours before your visit.
- Take advantage of the free guided tours to learn more about the library's collections and history.
- Visit the Bookplate Cafe for a drink or a bite to eat during your visit.
- Explore the exhibitions, including the Treasures Gallery, to see some of the library's most significant items.
- Utilize the free internet and computer access in the reading rooms for research or browsing.
Getting There
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Public Transport
The National Library of Australia is easily accessible by public transport. The closest bus stops are located on King Edward Terrace and Commonwealth Avenue. Several bus routes, including lines 2, 4, 6, and 7, stop near the library. Plan your trip using the Transport Canberra Journey Planner. A single bus fare typically costs $2 - $5.
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Walking
The National Library is located in the Parliamentary Triangle, within walking distance of Old Parliament House, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Portrait Gallery. From Parliament House, it's approximately a 20-minute walk along ভালোভাবে Commonwealth Avenue and Parkes Place.
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Driving
If driving, approach via Parkes Place West. A short-stay car park is located near the Library entrance, with hourly parking at $4.00 per hour. A long-stay car park is located on Parkes Place, towards the lake (behind Questacon). Paid parking is managed by the National Capital Authority and is in effect from 8:30 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday (excluding ACT public holidays). Payment can be made at on-site parking machines or via the EasyPark app.
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Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the entrance on Parkes Place West. From Canberra Airport to the National Library, a taxi fare is estimated to cost between $25 and $27. From the city center, a short taxi ride would likely cost around $12 - $15. Keep in mind that taxi fares in Canberra are regulated by the ACT Government.
Discover more about National Library of Australia
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peace Park
0.2 km
Explore the serene beauty of Peace Park, a historical landmark in Parkes, ACT, perfect for relaxation and reflection amidst stunning gardens.
International Flag Display
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant International Flag Display in Parkes, a scenic spot celebrating global diversity with colorful flags from around the world.
Sovereign Tribal Original Embassy of the land now known as Australia (Aboriginal Tent Embassy)
0.4 km
Explore the Sovereign Tribal Original Embassy, a poignant symbol of Indigenous rights and culture in Australia, located in Parkes, ACT.
Commonwealth Ave
0.5 km
Discover the scenic beauty and cultural significance of Commonwealth Avenue in Canberra, a must-visit destination for every tourist exploring Australia's capital.
King George V Memorial
0.5 km
Explore the King George V Memorial in Parkes, ACT, a remarkable historical landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich heritage.
Senate Gardens | Old Parliament House Rose Gardens
0.6 km
Explore the Senate Gardens, a tranquil floral retreat near Old Parliament House, perfect for relaxation and sightseeing in Parkes, ACT.
High Court of Australia
0.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and legal significance of the High Court of Australia in the heart of Canberra's cultural district.
Old Parliament House Gardens
0.7 km
Explore the historic Old Parliament House Gardens, a serene retreat in Parkes, Australia, blending rich history with stunning natural beauty.
Captain James Cook Memorial
0.7 km
Explore the Captain James Cook Memorial in Parkes, a serene tribute to Australia's maritime heritage surrounded by lush parklands.
Old Parliament House (Back entry)
0.8 km
Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Old Parliament House, a pivotal landmark in Australia's political landscape.
Commonwealth Park
0.9 km
Explore the serene beauty of Commonwealth Park, a lush green haven in Canberra perfect for relaxation, picnics, and cultural experiences.
Commencement Column
1.1 km
Explore the Commencement Column in Canberra, a memorial park celebrating Australia's capital's rich heritage and tranquil beauty.
Parliament House
1.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and political significance of Parliament House, the heart of Australia's democracy in Canberra.
National Police Memorial Australia
1.3 km
Visit the National Police Memorial Australia in Parkes to honor the courage of fallen police officers in a serene and reflective environment.
Old Canberra House
1.6 km
Explore Old Canberra House, a historical landmark at the Australian National University, and uncover the rich heritage of Australia's past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Questacon - National Science and Technology Centre
0.2 km
Discover the wonders of science and technology at Questacon, Australia's premier interactive science museum in Canberra, perfect for families and curious minds.
Reconciliation Place
0.2 km
Explore Reconciliation Place in Canberra, a serene memorial park showcasing Indigenous artistry and promoting unity in Australia's cultural landscape.
National Triangle
0.5 km
Discover the National Triangle, where nature meets culture in Canberra's iconic parkland, featuring stunning views and significant national monuments.
National Portrait Gallery
0.5 km
Explore Australia’s rich history and culture through captivating portraits at the National Portrait Gallery in Parkes, ACT.
Magna Carta Place
0.5 km
Explore Magna Carta Place, a tranquil monument in Parkes celebrating democracy and the historical significance of the Magna Carta.
Old Parliament House
0.6 km
Discover the historical significance of Old Parliament House, a museum showcasing Australia's political journey and rich heritage for all visitors.
Captain Cook Memorial Globe
0.7 km
Discover the Captain Cook Memorial Globe: A breathtaking tribute to exploration and adventure in the heart of Parkes, Australian Capital Territory.
National Capital Exhibition
0.7 km
Discover the rich history and culture of Australia at the National Capital Exhibition, showcasing Canberra's development and significance.
The Big Pears
0.7 km
Explore the whimsical world of The Big Pears in Parkes, a delightful tourist attraction showcasing oversized sculptures and local charm.
Ferry Gate, Floriade
0.7 km
Experience the enchanting Floriade in Parkes, ACT, where stunning floral displays and vibrant festivities celebrate the arrival of spring in Australia.
Lennox Gardens
0.8 km
Explore Lennox Gardens in Yarralumla, a serene urban oasis with beautiful landscapes, captivating sculptures, and peaceful waterfront views in the heart of Canberra.
National Gallery of Australia
0.8 km
Discover the National Gallery of Australia, a premier destination showcasing a vast collection of art from Australia and around the world.
James Turrell "Within without" Skyspace
0.8 km
Experience the enchanting interplay of light and sky at James Turrell's 'Within Without', a breathtaking Skyspace in the National Gallery of Australia.
National Archives of Australia
0.9 km
Explore the rich tapestry of Australia’s history at the National Archives of Australia, where the past meets the present in captivating exhibitions.
National Museum of Australia
0.9 km
Discover Australia's stories and cultural heritage at the National Museum of Australia in Acton, a captivating destination for every traveler.
Essential places to dine
Water's Edge Fine Dining Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover the culinary artistry at Water's Edge Fine Dining Restaurant in Canberra - where modern Australian flavors meet breathtaking waterfront views.
Vincent Restaurant
1.2 km
Experience fine dining at Vincent Restaurant in Barton ACT - where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.
Močan & Green Grout
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Močan & Green Grout in Canberra - where fresh ingredients meet modern Australian cuisine.
Parlour
1.4 km
Discover exquisite flavors and vibrant ambiance at Parlour - Canberra's top restaurant and bar offering unforgettable dining experiences.
Monster Kitchen and Bar
1.4 km
Discover the culinary excellence at Monster Kitchen and Bar in Canberra - where fresh ingredients meet innovative vegetarian cuisine.
Bicicletta Restaurant
1.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bicicletta Restaurant in Canberra, where tradition meets modern flair in every dish.
Capitol Bar & Grill Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience Canberra's premier dining destination at Capitol Bar & Grill, where gourmet grilled dishes meet exceptional service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Rebel Rebel
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Rebel Rebel in Acton – where innovative dishes meet local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.
peonee restaurant
1.5 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Australia at Peonee Restaurant in Campbell - where culinary excellence meets local hospitality.
The Meat & Wine Co Canberra
1.5 km
Experience the finest steaks and exquisite wines at The Meat & Wine Co Canberra - where culinary excellence meets Australian hospitality.
Lanterne Rooms
1.5 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Lanterne Rooms in Campbell - where culinary artistry meets warm hospitality.
Natural Nine
1.6 km
Experience the essence of authentic Chinese cuisine at Natural Nine in Canberra—where every dish tells a story.
Chatham House Restaurant at The National Press Club of Australia
1.6 km
Discover exquisite dining at Chatham House Restaurant within The National Press Club of Australia, blending local flavors with elegance.
Such and Such Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience exquisite dining at Such and Such Restaurant in Canberra, where local ingredients meet innovative cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
Banana Leaf Restaurant
1.7 km
Discover authentic Sri Lankan flavors at Banana Leaf Restaurant in Canberra—an unforgettable dining experience awaits!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
NGA Shop
0.7 km
Explore the NGA Shop in Parkes for unique art-inspired gifts that celebrate Australia's rich cultural heritage, perfect for every traveler.
The Museum Shop
1.0 km
Explore The Museum Shop for unique Australian gifts and souvenirs; a must-visit destination for tourists wanting to capture their travel memories.
Parliament Shop
1.2 km
Explore the Parliament Shop in Canberra for unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate Australia's parliamentary heritage and culture.
Myer Canberra
1.8 km
Discover Myer Canberra: Your ultimate shopping destination for clothing, homewares, and unique gifts in the heart of the capital.
Country Road - Canberra City
1.8 km
Explore stylish clothing and homewares at Country Road in Canberra City, a fashion destination for the entire family.
Universal Store
1.8 km
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Canberra Centre
1.8 km
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UNIQLO Canberra Centre
1.9 km
Explore UNIQLO Canberra Centre for stylish, affordable fashion for men, women, and children in the vibrant heart of Canberra.
David Jones - Canberra Centre
1.9 km
Explore David Jones in Canberra Centre for a premium shopping experience featuring fashion, beauty products, and homewares all under one roof.
Bailey's Corner
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant Bailey's Corner shopping mall in Canberra, brimming with unique shops and delightful dining options for every taste.
Witchery
1.9 km
Explore Witchery in Canberra for the latest women's fashion, accessories, and shoes, perfect for the stylish traveler seeking quality and elegance.
Country Road - Canberra Centre - David Jones
1.9 km
Explore the stylish world of Country Road at Canberra Centre, where fashion meets quality in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
The Pen Boutique
1.9 km
Discover unique gifts at The Pen Boutique in Canberra, featuring exquisite pens and elegant stationery that celebrate the art of writing.
Nespresso Boutique Canberra
1.9 km
Experience the world of premium coffee at Nespresso Boutique Canberra, where flavor and quality come together in a stylish setting.
Blue Illusion Canberra Centre
1.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jetty
0.5 km
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High Jinks
1.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at High Jinks, where expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere await.
Cicada Bar
1.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at Cicada Bar, known for its creative cocktails and inviting atmosphere.
The Shaking Hand
1.7 km
The Shaking Hand: Canberra's Lively Bar for Live Music and Unforgettable Nights Out.
Leyla Bar
1.7 km
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Canberra Centre Pop Up Bar by Contentious Character
1.8 km
Experience the charm of Canberra's vibrant wine scene at the delightful Canberra Centre Pop Up Bar by Contentious Character.
Transit Bar
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at Transit Bar, offering live music, delicious cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Luna
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Luna, Canberra's premier bar with innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere for all visitors.
Highball
1.9 km
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Bar Rochford
1.9 km
Discover Bar Rochford: Canberra's stylish bar and restaurant offering exquisite drinks and delectable dishes in a cozy, hidden venue.
Molly
2.0 km
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88mph
2.0 km
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Squeaky Clean
2.0 km
Discover Squeaky Clean in Canberra, where fantastic food, delightful drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.
Blackbird bar
2.0 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Blackbird Bar in Canberra, offering live music, a disco atmosphere, and a superb drink selection.
Fun Time Pony
2.0 km
Experience Canberra's vibrant nightlife at Fun Time Pony, where live music, comedy, and delicious pizza come together for unforgettable nights.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Canberra Services Club
1.5 km
Discover Canberra Services Club: A vibrant bar in Barton offering delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Mile High Club Canberra
1.9 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Canberra at Mile High Club, the ultimate disco destination for dance lovers and party enthusiasts.
Cube
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Canberra at Cube Nightclub, where unforgettable experiences and electrifying music await every weekend.
Mooseheads Canberra
1.9 km
Discover Mooseheads Canberra – an iconic pub and nightclub offering a lively atmosphere, great drinks, and unforgettable entertainment in the heart of Australia’s capital.
sideway
1.9 km
Discover Canberra's nightlife at Sideway, a captivating bar blending disco vibes and live music for an unforgettable experience.
Reload Bar & Games
1.9 km
Experience the excitement of Reload Bar & Games in Canberra, where delicious food meets thrilling entertainment in a lively atmosphere.
One22
1.9 km
Experience Canberra's nightlife at One22, a vibrant bar offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere that promises unforgettable nights out.
Sunny Ent.
2.0 km
Discover the ultimate disco experience at Sunny Ent. in Canberra, where vibrant music and energetic dance await you.
Fiction Club
2.1 km
Discover the pulse of Canberra's nightlife at Fiction Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.
Hellenic Club in the City
2.3 km
Discover the Hellenic Club in the City: Canberra's vibrant social hub offering dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences for every traveler.
30 Plus Dance Event
3.2 km
Discover the ultimate adult dance experience at 30 Plus Dance Event in Turner, where music, fun, and friendship come together for an unforgettable night.
The Canberra Wine House
5.1 km
Experience the essence of Canberra's wine culture at The Canberra Wine House, where exquisite selections and a cozy atmosphere await wine lovers.
The Tradies
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant community spirit of Dickson at The Tradies, where dining, drinks, and entertainment await!
Soundbox Karaoke & Bar
5.2 km
Experience the ultimate karaoke night at Soundbox Karaoke & Bar in Dickson, where every visitor can unleash their inner star and dance the night away.
Wanderlust Gentleman's Club
8.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Mitchell at Wanderlust Gentleman's Club - a thrilling adult entertainment destination filled with captivating performances.
