Playful architecture, innovative design, a makerspace, dinosaurs and of course books, there’s plenty to explore at Darling Square Library.
Darling Square Library is housed on 2 floors of The Exchange. The spiral-like building wrapped in more than 20km of timber ribbon was designed by Japanese firm Kengo Kuma & Associates. Creating a unique façade with a playful likeness to a birds nest, the handcrafted panels also filter natural light into the building.
Get comfy with a book on the lounges or settle in for a study session. Explore the 2 floors to find your perfect spot and collaborate or bury yourself in work or study.
Take a closer look under the stairs at the colourful Toysaurus sculptures by Japanese artist Hiroshi Fuji. Created during Jurassic Plastic as part of Sydney Festival in 2018, the works are made from discarded and broken plastic toys.
The Ideas Lab on level 1 is home to Sydney’s newest makerspace and a multipurpose room for workshops and events. With 3D printers, a laser cutter and tools and gadgets galore, it’s the place to be if you love to create and tinker.
On level 2, there’s a fun space dedicated just to little library lovers. With plenty of colourful books and reading spots to explore, you might find it hard to get them to leave.
There are outdoor terraces with tables and seating on both levels of the library. It makes a nice change to work, read or study in the fresh air.
The library is open 7 days a week and until 7pm Monday to Friday. Take in the views of The Exchange lit up at night from the plaza.
Darling Square Library is now open at level 1–2, Darling Exchange Building, 1 Little Pier Street, Haymarket. While you don’t need to be a member to visit, if you’re a NSW resident it’s free to join the City of Sydney Library.
Published 12 November 2019, updated 25 June 2024
