The exhibition bays in the historic Mortlock Wing open a window into the history and culture of South Australia, featuring the people, places, issues and events that have contributed to the state's development. The exhibition bays showcase the richness and breadth of State Library collections, with historical and contemporary materials used to illustrate particular themes.

The Treasures Wall exhibition showcases historical and contemporary materials drawn from the collections of the State Library of South Australia. It celebrates the remarkable depth and diversity of the collections by presenting a selection of items drawn from the wealth of State Library holdings, including rare books, manuscripts, archival materials, artworks, artefacts, photographs, and printed ephemera. Ranging from an Akkadian Dynasty clay tablet from the ancient world, to recent 'Adelaide Alive!' Australian Formula One Grand Prix memorabilia, these objects reflect the richness of the State Library's collections.