Founded in 1896, the State Library of Queensland is the leading reference and research library in Queensland. State Library is responsible for collecting and preserving a comprehensive collection of Queensland’s cultural and documentary heritage, providing free access to information for all Queenslanders and for the advancement of public libraries across the State.

A wide range of content both contemporary and retrospective is collected to reflect events, people, places and ideas that continue to shape Queensland. These collections are a resource for current and future generations wishing to understand Queensland.

Materials are collected for their research value and historical significance. Other factors that are considered are provenance, context, representation, uniqueness, condition, completeness, integrity and interpretive potential.

Material may be acquired in a range of formats, from traditional paper-based materials and photographs to digital images and files. We collect both original materials such as diaries, letters and oral histories and published materials with a link to Queensland.

Named for the explorer, John Oxley in 1934, the John Oxley Library documents the history of life in Queensland and includes:

• original manuscripts
• diaries
• business and station records
• artworks
• photographs
• maps
• architectural plans
• books, magazines, newspapers, and ephemera.

See also the State Library of Queensland Catalogue.

Clients must become a member to access the physical, onsite content.

To preserve the heritage of the state, the John Oxley Library collections on level 4 are not for loan. Visitors can access the physical and online collections in the Library. State Library members are welcome to request items using their One Search catalogue.

Open daily 10 am-5 pm on Level 4, State Library of Queensland.

Postal Address:
PO Box 3488 South Brisbane Qld 4101