Open Doors to Discovery: Visit City of Sydney Libraries

Looking for a free family outing these school holidays? From Monday 27 July to Friday 31 July, City of Sydney Libraries are throwing open their doors for a week-long celebration as part of Library and Information Week, inviting families, book lovers and curious minds to discover everything their local library has to offer.

With activities taking place across all nine City of Sydney library branches, this is the perfect opportunity to explore your local library, meet the passionate staff, enjoy interactive activities and discover why libraries are much more than just shelves filled with books.

Whether you’re introducing little ones to the joy of reading, looking for family-friendly activities, or simply wanting to reconnect with your local community, there’s something for everyone.

Explore Sydney’s Libraries

Libraries participating include:

Customs House
Darling Square
Glebe
Green Square
Kings Cross
Newtown
Surry Hills
Ultimo
Waterloo

Each library will host a variety of activities throughout the week, making every visit a little different.

Meet the Librarians

Have you ever wondered how librarians choose new books, uncover hidden treasures or help people find exactly what they’re looking for?

From 27 to 30 July (3:30pm–4pm), visitors can join special Ask a Librarian sessions at every branch. These informal conversations offer a behind-the-scenes look at library life, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and discover fascinating stories about the collections and services available.

Bookings are recommended.

Collect All Nine Library Stamps

Families can turn their library visits into an adventure with Imprint: A Library Journey.

Each of the nine libraries features its own unique laser-cut and 3D-printed stamp inspired by a historic 1983 photograph of the City of Sydney’s Home Library Service Van. As you visit each branch and collect the stamps, a larger image is gradually revealed, encouraging families to explore libraries across the city.

It’s a fun challenge for children and adults alike.

Share Your Love of Libraries

Throughout the week, visitors can contribute to Love Letters to Libraries.

Pick up a postcard at any branch, decorate it, write why libraries are special to you and add it to the growing community display. The main installation will be located at Darling Square Library, but contributions are welcome at every branch.

It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the important role libraries play in bringing communities together.

Keep an Eye Out for the Home Library Van

As part of the celebrations, the City of Sydney’s Home Library Service Van has received a fresh new look featuring a historic image from 1983.

If you’re out and about during the week, see if you can spot the van travelling around the city—a tribute to a service that has been connecting residents with books and resources since 1955.

Special Branch Events

Several libraries will also host additional activities during the week, including:

Darling Square Library

Thursday 30 July
Full day of activities from 10am–9pm

Green Square Library

Thursday 30 July
Full day of activities from 10am–6pm

Kings Cross Library

Come and Get Techie – Monday 27 July, 3pm–4pm
eResources Information Session – Wednesday 29 July, 2pm–3pm

Newtown Library

Social Knitting Group – Monday 27 July, 2pm–4pm

Step Back Through 200 Years of Library History

Visitors can also explore the 200 Years: Library Exhibition, on display at Customs House, Kings Cross, Glebe and Surry Hills libraries.

Featuring fascinating archival photographs and stories, the exhibition celebrates two centuries of Sydney’s library service and highlights how libraries have evolved into vibrant community hubs that continue to inspire generations.

Event Details

📅 Dates: Monday 27 July – Friday 31 July

⏰ Opening Hours: Generally 10am–6pm (branch programs vary)

📍 Locations: Nine City of Sydney library branches including Customs House, Darling Square, Glebe, Green Square, Kings Cross, Newtown, Surry Hills, Ultimo and Waterloo.

💲 Cost: FREE

Whether you’re borrowing your next favourite book, introducing your children to the magic of libraries or simply looking for a free day out, Open Doors, Open Books, Open Minds is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate one of Sydney’s most valuable community spaces. With activities for all ages, interactive experiences and plenty of opportunities to explore, it’s the perfect excuse to visit your local library this July.