The C. H. Bertie & Hugh Wright Memorial Library contains a valuable research collection of more than 61,000 items. The RAHS Library specialises in NSW local history and contains an extensive collection of both written and pictorial resources on all aspects of Australian history. The book collection includes 24,000 research and reference titles that specialise in NSW local and community history, as well as general works on NSW history. Several significant contributions are held in our Rare Books Room, which includes first editions and original works dating back to 1772. The collection is held on site at History House, making it very popular with researchers who can easily browse and access these items.

The library collection also includes photographs, postcards and glass slides; manuscripts; press clippings; ephemera; maps; journals and newsletters of our affiliated organisations; a complete set of the Society’s Journal of the Royal Australian Historical Society and History magazine. You can download more information on our collections before planning your library visit.

The Collections

Learn about the three most important items in the collection as highlighted in our 2014 Library Significance Assessment, which was funded by a National Library of Australia Community Heritage Grant.

In addition, we have some other treasures from our collections.