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Two visitors in the John Oxley Library. One visitor reads a book on a couch while the other is using a laptop.
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John Oxley Library

Discover Queensland's history through the John Oxley Library's unique heritage collections. Explore the collection online, discover stories, or visit us to research original materials.

Explore the collection

Search photographs, manuscripts, maps, artworks, newspapers and other material documenting Queensland's history.
Explore the collection online
Man using a desktop computer at State Library.

Visit John Oxley Library

Located on level 4 of State Library, the John Oxley Library offers spaces for research and quiet study. Explore original heritage materials, including diaries, manuscripts, artworks and maps, or settle into the dedicated study area with views across the Brisbane River.

Accessing collection material

Collection items cannot be borrowed. You can access original material in the Heritage Collections Reading Room, and State Library members can request items through the catalogue.

Reading room guidelines

To protect collection items in the Heritage Collections Reading Room, please note:

A separate quiet study area has views across the Brisbane River. Bottled water and bags are permitted in this space.

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People sitting at desks and walking through the library.
State Reference Library
The State Reference Library is located on levels 2 and 3. It offers a variety of spaces to suit all your needs, from music and films to quiet study and family history. You can also access computers, borrow books and do printing, scanning and photocopying here.Spread across levels 2 and 3, the State Reference Library offers something for everyone, from music and films to family history research, quiet study, and general reading. You’ll also find computers and printing services.
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Visitors looking at a collection item in the Talbot Family Treasures Wall.
Talbot Family Treasures Wall
Discover a changing selection of items from State Library’s heritage collections.
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View of the exterior of the State Library building from the Brisbane River.
Using the library
These extraordinary stories draw upon State Library's collection to tell us more about Queensland and the lives lived here.
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