- How can I get a Library card?
- What can I do with my Library card?
- Will my Library card expire?
- I've lost my Library card. What should I do?
- I found something in the catalogue that I want to look at it person. How do I get it?
- How do I find online journals and resources?
- I'm visiting the Library from outside Australia. Can I get a Library card?
How can I get a Library card?
Remember to read the terms and conditions for having a Library card – with great power comes great responsibility!
What can I do with my Library card?
Use your Library card to request physical collection material for use in our reading rooms, and to access books, newspapers and periodicals from anywhere in Australia using our eResources service. Learn more about eResources.
To request items to use at the Library, login to our catalogue. Once you have logged in, you can request items, track your requests, mark favourites and create lists for future research. You can request up to 15 items at a time.
Get started with the catalogue
Will my Library card expire?
I've lost my Library card. What should I do?
Our team of librarians can help you get a new one online, over the phone or in person in our Main Reading Room.
I found something in the catalogue that I want to look at in person. How do I get it?
Collection delivery times vary according to the type of material you need. Check our detailed collection delivery information to confirm the applicable timeframe.
How do I find online journal articles and resources?
Your Library card provides access to online journals and resources through our eResources portal. Login with your Library card details to browse full-text electronic journals, newspapers, academic papers and more. NewsBank (a collection of newspapers from over 200 countries) and PressReader (which has 7,000 newspapers and magazines) are two of our most popular eResources.
When you're looking at eResources, keep an eye out for the yellow key symbol. If you see it next to a resource, you'll know you can access it from wherever you are. Some resources can only be accessed when you're in the Library building in Canberra, and these are marked with a small building symbol.
Want to know more about how to use the eResources? Our research guides on eResources at the National Library and eBooks might help.
I'm visiting the Library from outside Australia. Can I get a Library card?
Further questions? Ask a Librarian
Not sure where to start your research? Stuck somewhere along the way? Ask a Librarian. Our librarians are here to provide suggestions, research tips, resources and strategies to all Australians, as well as anyone looking for information relating to Australia or the Library's collections. If we can't help we will recommend someone who can.