Loading

Tired of the doomscroll? Unplug at the State Library

26 May 2025

Tired of the doomscroll? Unplug at the State Library

This Vivid Sydney, the State Library of NSW invites you to Unplugged at the Library — three atmospheric Friday nights of screen-free creativity, quiet connection and old-school fun in one of Sydney’s most beautiful heritage buildings. 

According to State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowdon: “We’re excited to be opening the magnificent Mitchell Building after hours — the much-loved reading room, galleries and the Shakespeare Room. We invite you to join us for purely analogue experiences including reading, drawing, playing and crafting from 6–9 pm on 30 May, 6 and 13 June.” 

“There’s something really powerful about stepping into a magical place like the Library at night and swapping your screen for a sketchbook, a story, or a moment of stillness,” says Dr Butler-Bowdon. Settle into the historic Mitchell Library Reading Room, where time slows and the digital world fades away. Bring your own book, knitting or sketchbook, or simply let your mind wander. 

Add your thoughts or doodles to the Dream Scroll, a collective artwork capturing the reflections of all who pass through. Discover some of the Library’s most beautiful and dreamy objects in a curated display in the Special Collections area. 

Wander through the Paintings Galleries, explore puzzles, art materials and hands-on activities that invite creativity and shared experiences. See engaging live art by local makers, and enjoy DJs spinning vinyl. 

In the Shakespeare Room, make an appointment to meet with a bibliotherapist who’ll guide you to the ‘book of your dreams’. What’s more, there will be a pop-up bar and the ever-popular World Press Photo exhibition will be open for rare Friday night viewings. 

“Come on your own or with friends, family, your book club or art class — everyone is welcome to enjoy this rare opportunity to unplug and just be in the moment at the Library,” says Dr Butler-Bowdon. 

Unplugged program details: 

  • Friday 30 May, 6–9 pm Live Artist: Lew Keilar DJ: Mazzacles Bibliotherapist: Jenn Martin
  • Friday 6 June, 6–9 pm Live Artist: Barbara Dias DJ: Setwun Bibliotherapist: Yasmin Greenhalgh
  • Friday 13 June, 6–9 pm Live Artist: Andrew Yee DJ: Reenie Bibliotherapist: Jenn Martin
  • Unplugged is a free, Vivid Sydney event at the State Library of NSW.
  • View the Vivid Sydney program and book your free tickets here: sl.nsw.gov.au/whats-on 

Media inquiries: Vanessa Bond, Manager, Media & Communications, State Library of NSW 

0411 259 898, vanessa.bond@sl.nsw.gov.au

ALL ASSETS FROM THE DESTINATION NSW MEDIA CENTRE ARE FOR EDITORIAL USAGE ONLY AND MUST BE USED IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS.


For all non-editorial usage, please
visit the Destination NSW Content Library.

REGISTER
NOW

Access assets curated for media and content creators.

For all non-editorial usage, please
visit the Destination NSW Content Library.

Already have an account?

Permission Request


Destination NSW wants to access your Destination NSW Media Centre account.


This application will:

  • View your basic account information
  • View your email address
  • View your phone number, if provided
  • View your street address, if provided
  • View basic information about your organization, if provided
  • View your site usage
  • View your asset download activity

This access will help Destination NSW manage copyright owner rights, provide you with digital assets, keep you updated with new information and improve your user experience.


Do you agree to allow this access? If yes, click the REGISTER button.


You can unsubscribe at any time.

Permission Request

Destination NSW wants to review your registration for your Destination NSW Media Centre account.

This review will:

  • View your basic account information
  • View your email address
  • View your basic information about your organisation, if provided
  • View your site usage
  • View your asset download activity

This will assist Destination NSW manage copyright owner rights, provide you with digital assets, keep you updated with new information and improve your user experience.


By clicking REGISTER, you agree that you have read and agree to the TERMS & CONDITIONS and Destination NSW's PRIVACY POLICY


You can unsubscribe at any time.