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To support ongoing preservation and enhance your experience of one of South Australia’s most iconic spaces, the Mortlock Chamber will be temporarily closed from Monday 2 June 2025 for essential carpet replacement. 

We expect the Mortlock to reopen from September 2025, subject to the timely completion of works. Any changes to this schedule will be shared via our website, social media, and email newsletter. 

This project is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a welcoming, accessible and safe environment for all who visit, study, and work in the Library. 

The current carpet has served the Mortlock Chamber well for many years, but time and heavy foot traffic have taken their toll. Replacing it is an important part of maintaining both the safety and experience of this much-loved space. 

We understand the Mortlock is a special place for many, and we thank you for your patience and understanding as we undertake this improvement. 

During the closure

  • The Research Library remains open for study: 
    Monday: 10am to 5pm
    Tuesday: 10am to 7pm
    Wednesday to Friday: 10am to 5pm
    Saturday and Sunday: 12 to 5pm. 

  • All other Library spaces and services continue to operate as usual. 

Things to explore

While you're at the Library, there’s plenty more to discover including the Circulating Library in the historic Institute Building, plus the following exhibitions:

We look forward to welcoming you back into the Mortlock Chamber soon. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Mortlock be closed? 

From Monday 2 June to September 2025, the Mortlock Chamber will be temporarily closed from for carpet replacement.  

We expect the Mortlock to reopen from September 2025, subject to the timely completion of works. Any changes to this schedule will be shared via our website, social media, and email newsletter.  

Why is the carpet being replaced? 

The current carpet has served the Mortlock Chamber well for many years, but time and heavy foot traffic have taken their toll. Replacing it is an important part of maintaining both the safety and experience of this much-loved space.  

This project is part of our ongoing commitment to providing a welcoming, accessible and safe environment for all who visit, study, and work in the State Library.  

Who is involved in the project? 

Award winning architectural firm Swanbury Penglase are undertook the design work. Swanbury Penglase are recognised as an authority in architecture and design work with heritage buildings, and their work encompasses buildings and places included on local, state and national heritage lists and registers.  

The project is being managed by Ventia, one of the largest essential services providers in Australia who have extensive experience running government projects.  

G-Force Building and Consulting have been appointed as the contractors responsible for the installation. 

How much carpet is being replaced? 

The total area is approximately 730 square metres. The new carpet will be installed in all public areas of the ground floor of the Mortlock Chamber and stairwells. 

What will the new carpet look like? 

The State Library has worked closely with architectural firm Swanbury Penglase to develop a new design for the carpet which will complement the heritage nature of the Mortlock Chamber. 

The carpet selected is from Ege Carpets, who specialise in the design, development, and production of distinctive, high-quality carpets, crafted with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability.  

How is the project being funded? 

The project is funded by the Department of Premier and Cabinet. 

What about the collections in the Mortlock? 

No items of historical significance will be at risk during the process. Original collection items on exhibition display on the Mortlock Chamber ground level have been removed for protection, including toys and games from our Children's Literature Research Collection. All other collections housed in the Mortlock Chamber will be carefully protected during the project.  

Where else can I study at the Library? 

If you need a place to study during this time, visit the Research Library on Level 1 of the State Library’s Spence Wing, view the opening hours. 

What else can I do at the Library? 

During the Mortlock closure, there is plenty to see and do at the Library.  

  • All other Library spaces and services continue to operate as usual.  
  • The Circulating Library in the historic Institute Building will give you a taste of the heritage Mortlock Chamber. 

Exhibitions on display

How can I stay updated? 

Updates will be shared via our website, social media, and onsite signage.  

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we carry out these important improvements to enhance your future visits to the Mortlock.