History
Sydney is a vibrant city and it has an ancient heartbeat. Discover the rich, vivid history of Sydney from early Aboriginal life through to the modern global city.
Library & archive services
How to use our archives collection
History & archive collections
History & archive collections
History websites and digital collectionsWe have lots of rich and interesting online resources to search and explore.Library collections
Local history collectionMembers of the public can take advantage of our extensive archives.History & archive collections
Books about Sydney’s historyWe make an active contribution to original research about the local area.History & archive collections
Civic collectionA rich and varied collection that documents and celebrates our civic history.
Download free: Sydney Culture Walks app
Discover new neighbourhoods while learning about Sydney’s fascinating history, stunning architecture and the stories behind the city’s most loved public artworks.
Historical walking tours
History websites
- Barani: Sydney’s Aboriginal historyThe Barani website provides histories of people, places and events in the local area that are associated with the histories of Sydney's Aboriginal communities.
- Oral HistoriesThe collection showcases the voices of Sydney people past and present.
- Sydney’s Councillors & AldermenAn easy-to-search A-Z biographical guide of almost 500 men and women who have represented Sydney's residents.
- Dictionary of SydneyPut together as a collaborative not-for-profit venture in digital public history, it's an ever-growing resource you can trust.
House and building histories guide
Discover the many resources available to research the history of your house or apartment.