Join the library
We’re committed to equity of access and provide free membership to anyone, no matter where you live or how long you’ll be visiting Sydney.
Related to Libraries
Membership is free
When you need to do this
Community members can access our spaces, services and physical collections in the library without being a member.
Choosing to become a member provides access to more services, the ability to borrow items and access our online collections form home.
We have 3 types of membership:
- Full membership for 3 years with proof of your residential address in NSW.
- Visitor membership for 3 months if you live outside of NSW, are visiting from overseas or staying at a temporary address in Sydney.
- Temporary membership for 12 months if you’re experiencing homelessness, living in a refuge or do not wish to disclose your address for safety reasons.
What you need to do
-
Join the library online
-
Visit a library to confirm your identity
After you’ve joined, you’ll need to visit a library branch and provide proof of your identity.
Identification can be presented in a physical or digital format. Examples include current driver licence, identity card or passport. You can supply a rental agreement, bank statement, pension card or utility bill as proof of address.
If you’re under 16, you’ll need your parent or guardian to visit the branch with you to complete your application.
After you finish
If you experience challenges accessing your nearest library due to illness, injury, reduced mobility or caring responsibilities, our home library service is available for residents of the City of Sydney local area.
Institutional membership is also available for businesses and organisations based in our local area.
If you have an overdue item, we don’t charge late or overdue fees, but your membership will be suspended until the item is returned.
We do charge for lost or damaged items, and memberships are suspended until outstanding fees or charges are settled.
For more information on our memberships available:
