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Unknown Family in Botanic Gardens Woods Collection [B 70999/5]

Family History

The State Library of South Australia has a bounty of information to assist you to discover your family history.

If you are unable to visit the library in person, you may lodge a research request through our Ask Us service.

What's inside

About the collection

The State Library Family History Collection specialises in South Australian resources and we have a range of records from other Australian states, England, Wales and Ireland.

The collection emphasises South Australian and Australian indexes to birth, death, marriage, probate and similar records, augmented by indexes from primary countries-of-origin, where these can be obtained. 

A few popular family history research guides are:

Check out our full suite of research guides.

Research guides
A man seated at a table writing [B 47072/49]

Getting started

Knowing where to start researching your family history can be daunting, so we've compiled this starter guide to get you on your way to discovering your past.

View the guide

Need help?

Ask Us, Roland Eime, librarian in charge of Youth Lending, assisting a customer [B 72589/3]

Ask Us

For all your research or reference queries our librarians are here to help you!

Using our collection materials, view of customers in the reading area.

Using our collection material

View our policies, procedures, conditions of use and frequently asked questions about using and accessing our collections. 

Youth Lending Service, circa 1970 [B 68890]

Join the State Library

Did you know that State Library membership is free? Being a State Library members provides you with greater access to the collection. Check out the benefits and sign up for a card today.

Plan your visit

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.