State Library of New South Wales: Company Research Report

Company Overview

Basic Information

• Name: State Library of New South Wales

• Mission: The State Library collects and preserves materials and evidence relating to our place in the world and makes them accessible to everyone in New South Wales and beyond.

History

• Founded: The library traces its roots back to 1826.

• Founder: It opened as the Australian Subscription Library, established by a group of colonials.

• Milestones:

• 1826: The Library opens in Pitt Street.

• 1869: Purchased by the NSW Government and renamed Sydney Free Public Library.

• 1895: Renamed the Public Library of NSW.

• 1907: David Scott Mitchell’s bequest forms the Mitchell Library.

• 1975: Renamed State Library of New South Wales.

Key People

• State Librarian: Dr. Caroline Butler-Bowdon

• Executive Director, Library and Information Services: Louise Anemaat

• Chief Operating Officer: Phil Barter

• Mitchell Librarian & Director, Engagement: Richard Neville

• Director, Digital Experience & CIO: Robin Phua

• Head of Public Library Services: Cameron Morley

Headquarters

• Location: 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.

Employees

• No information is available

Revenue

• No information is available

Recognition

• The library is known for being the oldest continuously operating library in Australia and houses a vast collection of over six million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, paintings, architectural plans, objects, and digital content.

Products and Services

Core Services

• Collections: Books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, paintings, architectural plans, objects, and digital content.

• Digital Services: Online databases, e-resources, and digitized collections.

• Public Programs: Educational programs, exhibitions, cultural events, and learning sessions.

Key Features

1. Open Access: Provides free and open access to its extensive collections, making it an important resource for learning and research.
2. Support for Public Libraries: Works with public libraries across NSW to improve their services and reach.
3. Outreach Programs: Extends services to regional and Indigenous communities, supporting cultural heritage and education.
4. Digital Library: Offers digital access to a wide range of resources, increasing accessibility for remote users.

Notable Facilities

• Mitchell Wing: Home to the Mitchell Library collection, offering a dedicated reading room and access to rare and special collections.

• Macquarie Street Wing: Provides a modern space for the State Reference Library, featuring contemporary design and facilities.

Recent Developments

New Initiatives

• AMAZE: The Michael Crouch Gallery: Opened in 2013 to showcase significant collections and exhibitions.

• John B Fairfax Learning Centre: Opened in 2018 as part of the first major building project in over 50 years within the Mitchell building.

• Digital Transformation: Emphasis on enhancing digital experiences through the leadership of the CIO, Robin Phua.

Partnerships

• Public Library Partnerships: Strengthens ties with public libraries across NSW to share resources and enhance services.

• Indigenous Collaboration: Works with Indigenous communities to incorporate their knowledge and traditions into the library’s collections and programs.

Recent Developments

• 5th Anniversary of the National eDeposit Service (NED): Celebrated in August 2024, enhancing digital deposit capabilities across Australian libraries.

• Acquisition of Governor Phillip’s Journal: A rare fragment of Governor Arthur Phillip's long-lost journal was acquired and made available to the public in July 2024.

• Funding for Public Libraries: In July 2024, the State Government announced $6 million in funding for the infrastructure of public libraries across NSW.

• Completion Appeals: The library launched a campaign in August 2024 to gather missing copies of the groundbreaking magazine "The Dawn".

Event Highlights

• NSW Premier’s History Awards: Hosts annual awards and exhibitions that celebrate excellence in literature and history.

• Landmark Photography Exhibition: Launched a significant photography exhibition online in January 2024, increasing digital engagement.

Conclusion

The State Library of New South Wales serves as a cornerstone for cultural heritage, learning, and research. With an expansive history and continuous growth in both physical and digital realms, it remains a vital institution for the community it serves. The recent initiatives and partnerships underscore its commitment to broadening access and enhancing its services for present and future generations.