Canberra - National Library of Australia

The National Library of Australia is, architecturally, at the opposite pole from the National Gallery and the High Court. Built in the style of a Greek temple, it was opened in 1968. The classical effect is underlined by the use of marble and travertine on the columns and the walls, and marble of different origins (Greece, Italy, Australia) and color are also used in the decoration of the interior.

In the foyer are superb stained glass windows by Leonard French and three Aubusson tapestries woven from Australian wool. On the mezzanine floor are a 1:24 scale model of Captain Cook's ship Endeavour and photographs of all Australian prime ministers. On the lower floor are displayed treasures from the library's collection.

The National Library was originally part of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Library but was hived off from that library and given independent status in 1960. It now has a collection, formed by purchase or donation, of over 3.5 million books, rare printed books and medieval manuscripts, newspapers (many of them on microfilm) and autographs and papers left by scientists, politicians and artists, as well as historic and contemporary photographs and over 6000 pictures. Its most valuable possessions are Captain Cook's journal (1768-71) and Wills's diary of his expedition with Burke in 1860-1 which ended in their deaths.

The main function of the National Library is to collect and make available for public use Australian literature and literature on Australia. Under the 1968 Copyright Act one copy of every book produced in Australia must be deposited in the National Library. The Library also does important work in the field of bibliography, producing the Australian Bibliography Network, an integrated record of catalogues.