10 reasons to visit Green Square Library

1. The architecture

The stunning design of this award-winning underground building will change the way we think about library spaces. Stewart Hollenstein's inventive design has created a beautiful space to read, work and play.

An impressive glass entry pyramid leads you down into the main library space. This huge open plan living room is filled with light from a central sunken garden, amphitheatre and large circular skylights.

A striking 6-storey glass tower emerges above the plaza and lights up with pretty colours at night.

2. The baby-grand with views

Up on the 4th floor of the tower, take a seat at the baby-grand piano. With views sweeping over Green Square and a chance to see spectacular sunsets, this would have to be one of the most inspiring spaces for any pianist.

The music room and piano is available for anyone to hire for practice or small rehearsals.

3. Borrow a guitar or keyboard

We have a collection of acoustic, electric and bass guitars you can use for free when you book the music room.

Get a group together to jam or enjoy a solo practice.

You can record, compose and perform with virtual instruments using our fun mini-keyboard controllers.

4. Go retro with our classic video game consoles

Long before Candy Crush Saga, there was Donkey Kong, Frogger and Sonic.

If you’re a fan of old school or a video game enthusiast, you’re going to love our collection of classic video game consoles for members to borrow. Pioneered in the 80s and 90s, choose from Atari, Sega, Nintendo and the C64Mini.

All the consoles come pre-loaded with plenty of games, ready to plug and play at home.

5. Borrow a robotic or electronic kit

Inventive and creative minds will love exploring robotics and programming with our take-home makerspace kits. Create instruments with a modular synthesiser kit or turn a banana into a touchpad to play online games. There’s a range of kits for ages 5 and older.

6. Get comfy with a book in the reading room

If you’re looking for a quiet place to escape with your latest novel, head to the light-filled reading room in the tower. We’ve given our weeded books a second life to create a pretty art installation on the shelves.

You’re welcome to pick a book at random or bring your own from the library downstairs.

With views over plaza and comfy armchairs to relax in, you may never want to leave.

7. Room for the kids to run and play

Kids have their own dedicated space inside the library to read, play and create. You’ll find the shelves stacked with all their favourite books and DVDs – and comfy places to sit and enjoy them.

Outside they can play in the sunken garden or run wild in the plaza. On a warm day, the water play zone is sure to be a huge hit.

8. Enjoy Art?

Cloud Nation is a playful, enchanting and imaginative, a repurposed vintage aircraft suspended inside the library. Its surface transformed into a meticulously crafted miniature world. Visible from above and below, it’s well worth investigating.

The Jigsaw Rabbit has found its new home, after residing on Dixon Street during the 2023 Lunar New Year festivities. The rabbit’s on the ground floor to greet you as you enter the building. In Chinese culture the rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity.

9. Free wifi

Who doesn’t love free wifi? Throughout the library and amphitheatre you can log in and connect to our wifi on your own device. It’s great if you want a change of scenery from your office or to do a bit of research in the sunshine.

10. Free meeting rooms for students and members

Rooms are available on a walk-in basis for up to 2 hours a day. Come in to study in peace or knock over that group project. Talk to one of our friendly team to access the room. Bring your library card.

Green Square Library is at 355 Botany Road, Zetland. If you're not already a City of Sydney library member, join now. Membership is free if you live in NSW.