Timeline
09:00
Arrive at the National Library of Australia as it opens. The library is primarily a research centre but houses a permanent display of historically significant items and temporary exhibitions. It is an accessible space, entirely comfortable for anyone to visit. Enjoy the neo-classical architecture and the quiet atmosphere before the afternoon crowds arrive.
09:25
Walk two minutes to the Bookplate, the cafe at the National Library. Order a coffee or a light lunch. The cafe serves breakfast till 11:00 and lunch is also available, making it a convenient spot for a mid-morning break inside the library complex.
09:40
National Library of Australia Bookshop
Head to the National Library of Australia Bookshop, just one minute away. Browse the excellent range of Australian books. The prices tend to be higher than other places, but the selection is worth it for a unique souvenir or a new read.
09:55
Take a four-minute walk ENE to Canberra Peace Park. This park is beside Lake Burley Griffin, between the lake and the National Library. It is a pleasant spot to go for a stroll and enjoy the views of the water and the library from the outside.
Local tip
The library is open Monday to Thursday until 21:00, but arriving at 09:00 ensures you have the space to yourself. The Bookplate is open Monday to Thursday from 08:30, so it will be ready for your visit.
Check before you go
- National Library of Australia: Open Mo-Th 09:00-21:00; Fr,Sa 09:00-17:00; Su 13:30-17:00.
- Bookplate: Open Mo-Th 08:30-18:00; Fr 08:30-16:00; Sa-Su 11:00-15:00.
Worth knowing
- Bookplate is open at 09:25 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Canberra (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).