Sight guide · Adelaide · Australia
Visiting State Library of South Australia
The Mortlock Wing, opened in 1884, is a two-tiered Victorian reading room of wrought-iron balconies and wood panelling, now used for exhibitions.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Pangalau, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
State Library of South Australia is an architectural landmark in North Terrace, Adelaide. Allow 45 minutes; it is free. Booking ahead is not usually needed.
Key facts
- Type
- Architecture
- Area
- North Terrace
- Time needed
- 45 minutes
- Cost
- Free
- Book ahead
- Not usually needed
- Good for
- free, architecture, rainy day and photo spot
- Best months
- June–August
About State Library of South Australia
The Mortlock Wing, opened in 1884, is a two-tiered Victorian reading room of wrought-iron balconies and wood panelling, now used for exhibitions. It is free to visit and sits next to the museum on North Terrace.
Tip: Climb to the upper balcony of the Mortlock Wing for the classic view down the length of the hall.
Plan your visit
- Time needed: 45 minutes.
- Cost: Free — no ticket needed for the main area.
- Book ahead: not usually needed; buy on arrival.
- Where: North Terrace.
Best time to visit State Library of South Australia
State Library of South Australia is indoors, which makes it a good plan for the wettest months:
- July: 15°C (59°F) highs, about 12 rainy days, quiet crowds.
- August: 16°C (61°F) highs, about 12 rainy days, quiet crowds.
- June: 16°C (61°F) highs, about 11 rainy days, quiet crowds.
When to visit Adelaide has the full month-by-month picture.
Fit it into your trip
Our 3-day Adelaide itinerary visits State Library of South Australia on day 2, together with Glenelg Beach and Jetty and South Australian Museum.
- No. 6 of the 16 sights in our Adelaide things-to-do list.
- Day 2 of the 2-day plan.
- Day 2 of the 5-day plan.
- Listed in free things to do in Adelaide.
- One of the picks in adelaide on a rainy day.
Near State Library of South Australia
Also in North Terrace, so you can walk between them:
- South Australian Museum — 2 hours, free
- Art Gallery of South Australia — 2 hours, free
If you like State Library of South Australia
- Adelaide Central Market — West End and Gouger Street, 1–2 hours
- Haigh's Chocolates Visitor Centre — Parkside, 45 minutes
- Rundle Mall — City centre, 1–2 hours
Staying near State Library of South Australia
Where to stay in Adelaide compares every area by price and who it suits.
Questions travellers ask
+How long do you need at State Library of South Australia?
Plan 45 minutes. With South Australian Museum nearby, it fits a half-day in North Terrace.
+Is State Library of South Australia free?
Yes, it is free to visit.
+When is the best time to visit State Library of South Australia?
June–August, the wettest months, when an indoor sight is most welcome. Climb to the upper balcony of the Mortlock Wing for the classic view down the length of the hall.
+Do I need to book State Library of South Australia in advance?
Usually not: you can decide on the day.