The 14 Coolest Libraries To Visit In Australia

These Australian libraries are not just serving books, they’re serving looks.

As far as options go, bookworms in Australia have it pretty good. We’ve got a generous selection of cute bookstores, an array of exceptionally talented Aussie authors and even a self-guided trail dedicated just to reading. We’ve also got some wickedly good libraries, which often fly under the radar.

But as many bookish people know, the library is one of the most underrated places you can visit, whether you’re a reader or not. From award-winning architectural buildings to small community hubs and everything in between, we’ve found some of the coolest libraries in Australia.

1. Katoomba Library, NSW

Only a short drive from Sydney, the stunning Blue Mountains region is full of things to do. But you’ll want to put aside an hour or two for a visit to the local library in Katoomba . Sitting in the heart of town, it’s a beautiful place to disconnect for a while.

When designing the library, CK Design International ensured the building was fit with sufficient thermal mass, so it’s one of the cosiest places to be during winter. Nothing beats grabbing a good book and sitting in the lounging mezzanine, which offers incredible views across the mountains.

Inside Katoomba Library in Katoomba, Blue Mountains, NSW — Head to the second floor for views over the Blue Mountains. (Image: Blue Mountains City Library)

Address: 30 Parke St, Katoomba

2. Payinthi – Prospect Public Library, SA

In 2019, a cool $18 million was injected into the development of Payinthi in Adelaide’s north . And it’s been well worth it; the hub has gone on to become an important beacon for the community. Payinthi is part library, part art gallery, part retail precinct and part cafe – the perfect day out!

The concept is the brainchild of local architecture firm JPE Design Studio. Inside, books live among colourful murals, modern flourishes and heritage brickwork thanks to the fully integrated, heritage-listed Town Hall next door. Come for the cool architecture, stay for the good books.

Exterior of Payinthi – Prospect Public Library in SA — Payinthi – Prospect Public Library is the perfect day out. (Image: JPE Design Studio)

Address: 128 Prospect Rd, Prospect

3. National Library of Australia, ACT

This list wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the National Library of Australia in Canberra. The huge building sits in close proximity to Lake Burley Griffin and Old Parliament House, making it the perfect pit-stop for those wanting to see the sites in Australia’s capital.

But it’s what’s inside that will entice you to visit. In the hopes of preserving national history and culture, the National Library is home to the largest collection of material relating to Australia and the Australian people in the world. Opened by then Prime Minister John Gorton in 1968, it’s a must for history buffs.

The National Library of Australia in Canberra, ACT — The National Library of Australia is surrounded by stunning sculptures. (Image: VisitCanberra)

Address: Parkes Pl W, Canberra

4. Ruth Faulker Library, WA

Head to the picturesque Faulkner Park in the Perth suburb of Cloverdale and you’ll stumble upon Ruth Faulkner Library . You’ll probably spot it before you even enter the park though, thanks to its striking and intricate facade by Bollig Design Group.

The building itself is located within Faulkner Park Civic Precinct’s Belmont Hub, putting it within arm’s reach of other great community spaces. Pop next door to the state-of-the-art museum or sit in the park with your recently borrowed reads to soak in the sun.

Ruth Faulkner Library in Perth, WA — The stunning Ruth Faulker Library is located within the Belmont Hub.

Address: 213 Wright St, Cloverdale

5. Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, Vic

Resembling a futuristic museum more than a city library, the Geelong Library and Heritage Centre is an architectural feat. The dome-shaped building with glass panelling is already photo-worthy, but head inside and you’ll be wowed all over again.

From a sleek and chic lobby to a room fully clad in red (from the carpet to the walls, the bookshelves to the chairs), it’s one of the coolest places to sit with a book. Melbourne-based ARM Architecture designed the building to pay homage to traditional libraries while creating a future-oriented space.

Geelong Library & Heritage Centre in Geelong, Victoria — The building was designed by local firm ARM Architecture.

Address: 51 Little Malop St, Geelong

6. Mona Library, Tas

You may not be able to borrow books from the Mona Library , but it’s still a must-see when visiting Hobart. Why you may ask? Well, because you can browse the owner’s entire collection of books, of course!

David Walsh, owner of the Museum of Old and New Art, has put his beloved books on display for the public. Housed in an extension of the Round House, Mona Library boasts rare editions, signed copies, coffee-table books and celebrated classics, all under one roof. When you finish browsing, pop into Mona – it’s one of many must-do activities in Hobart.

Museum of Old and New Art (Mona) in Hobart, Tasmania — You’ll find Walsh’s book collection inside Mona. (Image: Jesse Hunniford)

Address: 655 Main Rd, Berriedale

7. Woollahra Library, NSW

Much like a well-loved cafe or shop, there’s a queue at the door before Woollahra Library in Sydney’s Double Bay opens each day. But it’s not because there’s something to be purchased here, people just want to exist in this quiet, calming space.

Designed by BVN, the library is full of greenery. It’s a metaphor for growth and a nod to the site’s previous iteration as a heritage garden, from dangling vines of Devil’s ivy to ferns tucked beside bookshelves. The best part? There’s a hidden slippery slide inside, see if you can find it!

Inside Woollahra Library, Double Bay in Sydney, NSW — The interiors are designed to feel like a garden. (Image: Amy Piddington)

Address: 1/451 New South Head Rd, Double Bay

8. Craigieburn Library, Vic

At Craigieburn Library on Melbourne’s outskirts , it’s all about natural light. A wall of double-height, two-storey windows welcomes the outside world in. Completed by architecture firm fjcstudio , the idea was to blend the building into its surroundings and connect it with the natural environment.

Sit on one of the north-facing balconies with a book in the sun, hang out at the cafe downstairs or get a cultural fix at the onsite art gallery. There’s also a childcare centre and computer training centre, making it a hive of learning with a community-driven focus.

Craigieburn Library in Melbourne, Victoria — The library was completed by architecture firm fjcstudio.

Address: 75-95 Central Park Ave, Craigieburn

9. City of Perth Library, WA

You can’t go to the Western Australian capital without dropping by the futuristic-looking City of Perth Library . Sitting near Perth Town Hall in the newly refurbished Cathedral Square, it’s a quiet reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city while still being a beautiful place to visit.

Known among Perth locals as an icon of the city, the library was designed by Kerry Hill Architects and opened in 2015. It has since gone on to attract over one million visitors, which is enough proof I need to add it to the bucket list.

City of Perth Library in Perth, WA — The library has gone on to welcome over one million visitors.

Address: 573 Hay St, Perth

10. State Library of Queensland, Qld

It’s high time a state library got a mention! We all knew it was coming; Australia is home to numerous stunning state libraries, with one of the best being the State Library of Queensland . It’s been a stalwart of Brisbane since it opened to the public in 1902 (it was established privately in 1896).

There’s always plenty going on here, too. From art exhibitions to reading groups, this beautiful library is always welcoming locals and tourists through its doors. It’s worth just popping in for some peace and quiet, with great views across the Brisbane River and city.

The State Library of Queensland in Brisbane, Qld — The library was opened to the public in 1902. (Image: Wojtek Gurak)

Address: Cultural Precinct, Stanley Pl, South Brisbane

11. State Library of South Australia, SA

A well-loved icon of Adelaide’s cityscape, the State Library of South Australia has been serving the public since 1884. And with its wrought-iron balustrades, heavy wooden bookshelves and medieval-looking columns, it looks straight out of Hogwarts.

There’s so much to be seen here that you can even take a one-hour guided tour with one of the library’s passionate volunteers. Or opt to visit during an exhibition or event. Either way, this is a place that should definitely be on your list of things to do when visiting Adelaide.

The State Library of South Australia in Adelaide, SA — The interiors of the State Library look straight out of Hogwarts. (Image: Jake Wundersitz)

Address: Corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue, Adelaide

12. Marrickville Library, NSW

If you live in Sydney, you’ve at least heard of it. If you live in Sydney and love books, you’ve definitely visited. Of course, we’re talking about Marrickville Library in Sydney’s inner west.

The library, which was designed by Australian firm BVN, has won multiple awards over the years, and it’s not hard to see why. The building itself is worth a visit, but add in the flower-studded courtyard and onsite cafe serving up mean menu delights and it’s easy to spend all day here.

Marrickville Library exterior — Marrickville Library has won multiple awards over the years.

Address: 313 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville

13. Bunjil Place Library, Vic

Bunjil Place is a vibrant community hub in Casey, an outer south-eastern suburb of Melbourne. Not only is it home to the local library, but you’ll find a function centre, theatre, study, gallery and cafe onsite, as well as a public plaza connecting it all.

Unlike other communal facilities that often physically divide people by interest or culture, Bunjil Place has been designed by fjcstudio to bring people together. The library is a wonderful example of this, with plenty of wide-open spaces and natural light. Plus, what unites people more than a shared love of books?

Inside Bunjil Place Library in Narre Warren, Victoria — Bunjil Place has become a vibrant community hub. (Image: Helen K)

Address: 1A/2 Patrick NE Dr, Narre Warren

14. Alice Springs Public Library, NT

Look up the definition of community in the dictionary and it may just read: Alice Springs Public Library . Near the Todd River and in close proximity to Olive Pink Botanic Garden, this little library may be small in stature, but it’s big in delivery. It’s a place for people to come together and learn, play, grow and belong.

One length of the library wall is covered in All them Tourists goin’ to look at Countryside, a hand-painted mural by talented Luritja/Pitjantjatjara artist Billy Tjampijinpa Kenda. Part of an incredible public art trail through town, it’s not to be missed.

Alice Springs Public Library exterior — Alice Springs Public Library is a place for people to come together and learn, play, grow and belong.

Address: Corner of Gregory Terrace and Leichhardt Terrace, Alice Springs

From cycling and comedy to boating and begonia appreciation, there’s an event in regional Victoria that’s sure to have you circling dates on your calendar.

1. Festival of Sails

the Melbourne to Geelong passage race, Festival of Sails 2025 — The Melbourne to Geelong passage race will be held for its 183rd year. (Image: Salty Dingo)

When: 24–26 January
Where: Melbourne and Geelong

This five-day regatta of sailing and onshore entertainment at Geelong’s waterfront includes Australia’s oldest sporting event, the Melbourne to Geelong passage race which, in 2026, will be held for its 183rd year. But you don’t have to be a yachtie, sailor or boat-enthusiast to enjoy the nautical excitement; there’s also a three-day line-up of entertainment, food and live music, including the anchoring of tall ships – ever a firm family favourite.

2. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

cyclists during the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race — Catch the best cyclists as they wind through Victoria’s coastal towns. (Image: Visit Victoria)

When: 31 January – 1 February
Where: The Bellarine Peninsula

Meandering (at pace) along the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast is this annual cycling event that welcomes everyone from families to serious athletes. Since its beginnings in 2015, the race has become a huge hit with spectators flocking along to cheer on Lycra-clad competitors. Starting and finishing in Geelong’s Velo Village, this is the hub of the non-race activity with food and drink, roaming performers, lawn games and face painting.

3. Riverboats Music Festival

the performers at Riverboats Music Festival, Murray River — The annual music festival is staged under majestic red gums by the Murray River.

When: 13–15 February
Where: Echuca–Moama

Get along to bop and sway under the canopy of red gums at this annual music festival . Hosted by the twin towns of Echuca–Moama, the stage is set for Murray River-adjacent revelling as historic paddlesteamers peacefully chug alongside the event. As well as music, there’s dancing, food trucks and plenty of atmosphere to absorb.

4. Neerim ArtsFest

the Neerim ArtsFest south sculptures — Admire stunning works at Neerim ArtsFest. (Image: Nicky Cawood)

When: 28 February – 15 March
Where: Gippsland

This biennial Gippsland festival celebrates sculptural artists with an esteemed award in two categories, large outdoor and small indoor. The public is invited to enjoy the works over the exhibition period as they’re placed throughout Neerim South and surrounding venues. For 2026, the theme ‘The Spirit Soars’ leads artists to create stunning pieces that explore the expression of freedom in a thrilling visual capacity.

5. ChillOut Festival

a street parade during the LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival — Think colourful street parades and burlesque performances.

When: 5–9 March
Where: Daylesford

Pride in the country has been cheered on every March in Daylesford since 1997 with the riotous annual LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival . This colourful regional spectacle is an inclusive celebration of diversity that plays out across a vibrant parade, burlesque performances, a bush dance and a carnival. Get bedazzled, find a wig and stick on the false eyelashes for this fun party.

6. Port Fairy Folk Festival

Missy Higgins at the Port Fairy Folk Festival — Celebrate folk music at the Port Fairy Folk Festival. (Image: Lucinda Goodwin)

When: 6–9 March
Where: Port Fairy

In 2026, this beloved festival will be one year shy of its 50th anniversary. From folk fans to festival-lovers, this long-running event brings plenty of good vibes to guarantee an incredible experience. While music is at the heart of the festival, there’s also a range of workshops, exhibitions and family entertainment across dance, film and folk art. For its 49th year, the line-up so far includes Blair Dunlop, Elephant Sessions, and the musical duo Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham.

7. The Ballarat Begonia Festival

a woman admiring flowers at The Ballarat Begonia Festival — Gasp at delicate blooms at The Ballarat Begonia Festival.

When: 7–9 March
Where: Ballarat

In bloom since 1953, this horticultural event places a collection of rare begonias at the centre of festivities, honouring the flower’s presence in Ballarat since the 1800s. During its history, the event has been visited by Queen Elizabeth II and, in 2015, it featured the launch of the largest outdoor Lego flower. Apart from a display of around 500 species of the flower of the moment, there’s also a begonia parade, entertainment, live music, food and presentations.

8. The Bendigo Easter Festival

Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance at The Bendigo Easter Festival — The majestic Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance is an annual tradition at The Bendigo Easter Festival.

When: 3–6 April
Where: Bendigo

Held in the city’s Rosalind Park, the annual Easter Festival has been a highlight of Bendigo’s calendar of events since 1871. A carnival of colourful activity, the festival welcomes everyone and rolls out the good times with everything from a Good Friday Easter egg hunt to live music and performances, a Rotary market and Gala Parade. Don’t miss the world’s longest imperial dragon rhythmically roaming the historic streets as part of the Easter Sunday festivities.

9. Grape Escape

a glass of wine at the Grampians Grape Escape — Enjoy a wine tasting experience. (Image: Anthony Evans Photography)

When: 1–3 May
Where: The Grampians

Backdropped by gorgeous Grampians/Gariwerd National Park, this much-loved bacchanalian-inspired festival of food, wine and music is a high-priority for gourmands. Held at Halls Gap Reserve, a Tasting Ticket includes a tumbler that unlocks free wine, beer and cider tastings and, if you are partaking, there’s a shuttle bus to get you back to your digs afterwards. Be sure to book your accommodation early for this one – its popularity is undisputed.

10. Comedy in the Vines

Comedy in the Vines at Cherryhill Orchards — Get the good times rolling at Cherryhill Orchards. (Image: Saige Prime)

When: 24–26 October
Where: Yarra Valley

The premise of Yarra Valley’s Comedy in the Vines , held at Cherryhill Orchards, is that wine and laughs pair well. Few arguments can be made, so get along this month (or next year), to have a giggle and a gamay. This year, taking the stage is the likes of Merrick Watts, Tommy Little, Ray O’Leary and Takashi Wakasugi. There are also masterclasses, a riesling and oyster shot bar, and plenty of food and music between gigs.

The 14 coolest libraries to visit in Australia