Heritage Collections Reading Room

This is the official reading room where the Library's heritage materials are consulted and read. Rare, fragile and historically significant, these materials can only be viewed under supervision. They include a range of manuscripts, ephemera, newspapers, pictures, maps and rare books which have been retrieved from storage and brought to the reading room at pre-arranged times. 

Where is the Heritage Collections Reading Room?

Visited by appointment only, the Heritage Collections Reading Room is located on the southern side of the Library, adjacent to the Cowen Gallery. Access is via the South Rotunda and through two sets of double glass doors. When you arrive for your appointment, ring the bell on the left and a member of staff will let you in. For the exact location of this room consult the Library floor plan.

What is in this room?

This elegantly proportioned light-filled room has several reading tables which can comfortably accommodate a range of materials from large format maps and pictures to archival boxes of manuscripts. The room also contains:

• microfilm and microfiche readers
• computer workstations
• photocopier
• wireless hotspot
• laser printer. 

Special conditions of use

Because heritage materials need to be stored and handled in a way that prevents damage and deterioration, there are certain requirements attached to accessing and using them:

• items must be pre-ordered
• materials can only be viewed in this room
• restrictions on photocopying
• only pencils can be used for note taking
• cotton gloves must be worn when handling certain delicate materials.

Information desk

Immediately to the left of the entrance is the information desk where you sign in and collect your pre-ordered items. Specialist members of staff at this desk can also help you with using equipment in the room or locating particular heritage items.

Wireless hotspot

Free wireless broadband access is available in the Heritage Collections Reading Room to registered Library users working with heritage materials. Known as WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) or Wireless LAN, it allows you to connect to the internet without cables or wires. For more information see Using Wireless Services at the Library.

When is this room open?

The Heritage Collections Reading Room is open during standard Library opening hours.