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10 things you didn’t know you could do at the Library

By Ellen Newcombe, Librarian, Library and Client Services | 9 February 2022

Exterior of State Library building.

There’s more to libraries than just books. Don’t get us wrong, obviously we love books but there’s so many other great things you can do at State Library. We’ve come up with a list of a few you might not know about:

1. Practise the piano

Members of State Library can book into the Piano Room on level 3 for one hour a day and get in some piano practice. Don’t forget to check out our music score collection, also on level 3, if you’re looking for something to play. Just keep in mind the Piano Room isn’t fully soundproof, so if you’re not exactly Rachmaninoff you can always bring along a pair of headphones.

Piano and sheet music

2. Search historical newspapers on microfilm

Have you ever wanted to feel like a hardboiled private detective in a film noir? Searching through historical newspapers definitely feels a lot more exciting if you imagine yourself solving a cold case. If you’ve never used a microfilm reader before the staff at the level 3 desk will be able to give you a hand to get started.

3. Discover Extraordinary stories

Stories worth telling. Stories worth hearing. Stories worth collecting. These extraordinary stories draw upon State Library's collection to tell us more about Queensland and the lives lived here. Enjoy a changing selection of items from State Library’s heritage collection. Each item is on display for a limited time, bringing you new stories throughout the year.  

4. Learn to use maker equipment in the Innovation Lab

Learn to make, create and design at The Edge! Once you’ve done an equipment induction you can book our resources and get creative. We have laser cutters, 3D printers, sewing machines and more.

5. Start a new creative project in the Digital Media Lab

Access creative and industry standard software for design, 3D modelling, web and app development and image, audio and video editing, as well as a range of audio and design equipment in the Digital Media Lab. Check the full list here. You can also access equipment, including midi keyboards, Wacom design tablets and much more to assist in the development of your project. Members can book a space for up to 4 hours a day here.

6. Record a podcast in the Recording Studio

Have an idea for a podcast that you think could be the next big thing? Don’t have the equipment to get started? Record, edit and mix sound like a professional in the Recording Studio. Once you’ve completed an induction members can book the Recording Studio here.

Woman mixing sound in the Edge recording studio

7. Bring the kids to Rhyme Time and Play Time at The Corner

The Corner is a creative space designed especially for children under 8 and their families. Aimed at young children, Rhyme Time is a session focused on engaging young children to share rhymes, songs and stories as well as encouraging interaction with other children and families. Play Time is an open-ended play session for children of all ages with specially selected resources to explore. Find more information and session times here.

8. Discover the history of your house

Have you ever felt as though your house had a story to tell? Discover and explore resources for tracing the history of your house and the land it's built on. We have maps, photographs, directories and more that might help you uncover your house’s past. The staff at the Level 4 desk can help you get started.

9. Support local authors and artists at the Library Shop

Looking for a gift for that tricky to buy for loved one or just after the latest release from your favourite author for yourself? Why not pop into the Library Shop and browse the selection from Queensland authors and artists. The Library Shop also stocks prints of vintage posters from State Library’s heritage collections.

Woman browsing books at the Library Shop

10. Explore our exhibitions on the Gallery Walk

If you’re a lover of art, history and culture then take a self-guided tour through State Library’s Gallery Walk. Pick up a guide on level 1 and explore our exhibitions and showcases as well as a variety of other unexpected and fascinating treasures along the way. Or to get some more in-depth information about our exhibitions why not book in to one of our curator tours.

You don’t need to be a State Library member to access many of these resources and spaces, but you can access so much more, both in person & online, if you do! Membership is free, quick & easy, so why not join today?

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