Due to scheduled maintenance, the National Library’s online services will be unavailable between 8pm on Saturday 7 December and 11am on Sunday 8 December (AEDT). Find out more.
The Library is located on Parkes Place in the central Canberra suburb of Parkes in the Parliamentary Triangle.
On this page
Map
Parking
There are several car parks surrounding the Library. A large all day car park can be found further along Parkes Place, towards the lake. Accessible parking bays can be found immediately south of the Library, in the car park closest to the front entrance. A smaller all day car park is also located south of the Library, near the loading bay, off King Edward Terrace.
For information on parking prices, please visit the National Capital Authority website.
All car parks are regularly patrolled by parking inspectors so we advise that you ensure you are displaying the appropriate ticketing before leaving your vehicle.
Travel by foot, bike or e-scooter
The Library is adjacent to Questacon and only 10 to 15 minute walk from Old Parliament House, the Australian Electoral Commission, the National Gallery of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery and the National Archives of Australia.
The Library sits on the Lake Burley Griffin bike route and near others through the Parliamentary Zone. Bike parking is available on the south side of the front entrance and in the car park adjacent to the loading dock off King Edward Terrace.
Shared e-scooters can be hired and used within the Parliamentary Zone.
Travel by bus
Transport Canberra provide regular buses throughout the area. The closest bus stops are located along Commonwealth Avenue and King Edward Terrace.
Travel by taxi
Canberra Elite
Phone: 13 2227
SMS: 0481 072 700
SMS name, pickup address and time required.
ACT Cabs
Phone: 6280 0077
School and group visits
School buses and coachlines
There are drop-off and pick-up zones for school and group buses in front of the Library. However, there is no street parking for buses near the Library. Please note parking zones are available in front of the Questacon building, adjacent to the Library.
Visit our learning page for more information on planning your visit to the Library.