The Fryer Memorial Library of Australian Literature was founded in 1927 in honour of John Denis Fryer and provides a rich store of books, manuscripts, photographs, theses, architectural drawings, oral histories and much more.

The Fryer Library’s extensive collection of published and unpublished material focuses on Australian literature, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander studies, Queensland history, art and architecture.

The Fryer Library builds collections to support scholarship, education and engagement with The University of Queensland community, international students and researchers and the broader public.

The Fryer Library’s current collecting focus is on materials whose form, function and content are likely to advance scholarship or learning in the fields of Australian literature and drama, Queensland architectural history and Australian cultural and social history with particular emphasis on the history of The University of Queensland.

Holdings include:

• Australian literature and drama – Manuscript papers and archives of Australian authors.
• Queensland architectural plans and records – non-government architectural records, plans and drawings, photographs, construction specifications, correspondence and documents related to buildings designed and built in Queensland.
• History of The University of Queensland and the papers of scholars of The University of Queensland.
• Collections that support the holdings of University museums – Materials are selectively acquired that support research into related collections held in the University’s heritage museums.

The FW Robinson Reading Room is a quiet study space open by appointment to researchers, visitors and members of the UQ community using special collections, including those held in the Fryer Library and the University of Queensland Archives.

Non-UQ clients should register for membership before arriving to save time.

You’re required to book an appointment in the FW Robinson Reading Room one week in advance to view Fryer Library collections, UQ Archives materials and certain document delivery items. The process varies slightly in each case: Access the FW Robinson Reading Room