Tasmanian heritage collections

What we collect

The State Library of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Archives collect a wide range of contemporary and historical material that documents the story of Tasmania. Tasmanian publishers are legally required to give the State Library one copy of everything they publish.

Our collections include:

  • ephemera
  • films and sound recordings.
  • government records
  • manuscripts
  • maps and plans
  • newspapers and journals
  • photographs
  • printed and electronic books
  • websites
  • works of art

The Tasmanian Archives preserves Tasmania’s documentary heritage. Material is collected for its historic associations, research value, social and cultural significance.

Our collections include the records of Tasmanian:

  • business
  • community organisations
  • government
  • individuals and families

We also manage two significant donated collections:

Tasmanian Government records

We keep records that:

  • provide evidence of legal status and entitlements of individuals and groups. For example: birth, death and marriage registrations, land ownership and probate
  • are evidence of the authority, foundation and machinery of government and public sector bodies
  • record significant government decisions and their impact
  • protect or help the well-being of the community
  • are a valuable cultural resource

We provide access to government records in line with the Archives Act 1983 (Tas). The Office of the State Archivist has detailed guidance and advice.

Access to archival and heritage collections

Clients can access the collections:


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