Item 02: Australian Subscription Library minutes and proceedings, 1826-1833

The State Library of NSW is the oldest continuously operating library in Australia and traces its origins back to 1826 when the Australian Subscription Library was established in Pitt Street, Sydney. This collection contains minutes from 1826 – 1833 and includes names of the founders and notes from the first meeting in early February 1826 at the Sydney Hotel. Also included are the rules and regulations for the Library, along with listings of the first books and periodicals ordered for the new library from Britain. Transcribing this material will contribute to many anniversary projects the Library will be unveiling in 2026.