State Library Unplugged

Libraries have long been sanctuaries of reflection, where people of all ages can find themselves in quiet company, surrounded by books. In our hurried world of digital distractions, the unplugged movement calls us back to this timeless experience.

In the historic Mitchell Library Reading Room, time slows and the hum fades. Bring a book, a sketchpad, your curiosity — or take time to simply be. Sketch a pondering, a doodle or anything in between on our Dream Scroll, an interactive collective experience. See some of the Library’s most dreamy items on display in the Special Collections Area, open until 7.30 pm each week.

In our heritage Paintings Galleries explore puzzles, art materials and hands-on analogue activities inviting creativity and shared experiences. See engaging live art by local makers, and enjoy DJs spinning vinyl through the evening.

In the stunning Shakespeare Room, have a chat with a librarian and let them guide you to the ‘book of your dreams’.

Share the joy of discovery in the Library’s magical spaces. Come by yourself, with your family or friends, and reconnect with yourself, others and the physical world.

This event is held in partnership with Vivid Sydney.

If you have any accessibility requirements in attending this event, please contact us at bookings@sl.nsw.gov.au. You can find more information about accessibility to our events here.

Friday May 30:

• Live artist: Lew Keilar

• DJ: Mazzacles

• Find the book of your dreams with: Jenn Martin

Friday June 6:

• Live artist: Barbara Dias

• DJ: Setwun

• Find the book of your dreams with: Yasmin Greenhalgh

Friday June 13:

• Live artist: Andrew Yee

• DJ: Reenie

• Find the book of your dreams with: Jenn Martin