Tasmania has been at the forefront of library services, establishing Australia’s very first library in 1825. We are also the first state in Australia to deliver an integrated library and archive network – today delivering services from over 50 sites statewide, as well as online.
We are Tasmania’s statewide publicly-funded library and archive service; part of the Tasmanian Department of Education.
We enable personal learning, growth and community connections. It provides contemporary library services through its accessible, inclusive and welcoming places for everyone – people of all ages, interests and needs. This includes offering:
- an extensive collection of lending items, including books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, audio-books, and eResources
- online sources of information, including databases and heritage collections
- research and information services
- computers, free access to the internet and support in their use
- flexible spaces for individual study, recreation and group activity
- a variety of programs, services and events for adults, children and young people.
Through the Tasmanian Archive and Heritage Office, we preserve the documentary heritage of Tasmania’s past and future generations, and serve as the continuing memory of Tasmania’s government and people. Our archival material is so extensive it could line the road from Bridgewater to the Hobart CBD. We are committed to digitising our heritage items to make them more discoverable online, to anyone around the world.
As well as providing opportunities for lifelong learning, social interactions and cultural inspiration, our services and programs directly contribute to our state’s growth, with an economic impact of over $130 million annually.