About the Somerville Reading Room
The Somerville Reading Room in the State Library of South Australia is shared between the library and the National Archives.
For more information about the records collection of State Records of South Australia visit their website at archives.sa.gov.au
Records about South Australia
The National Archives' diverse collection of records relating to South Australia ranges from 19th-century colonial records to substantial holdings on immigration and defence in the twentieth century.
Of particular interest are the Defence Science and Technology Organisation records and material relating to railways and internment in South Australia.
The Defence Science and Technology Organisation records include files, slides and plans of the Woomera testing site. It shows the human side of the missile testing in South Australia through:
- the Gibber Gabber newsletter
- the Bulldust news sheet produced by staff involved in atomic bomb testing.
The railway collection contains files, plans and photographs which capture the broad history of mainland rail and reflect South Australia’s central role in the rail industry, including records about:
- Australian National Railway
- Central Australian Railways
- Northern Australian Railway
- the Trans Australian Railway.
The records of the Loveday internment camp document security service aspects of individual people’s internment. They include:
- personal particulars
- arrangements for appeal and release
- security service
- tribunal notes
- mail censorship material.
Visitor information
National Archives of Australia
Somerville Reading Room, State Library of South Australia
Corner North Terrace and Kintore Avenue
Adelaide SA 5000
Visiting the Research Centre
The Research Centre is open 10 am to 5 pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. We are closed on public holidays.
To view original records, you will need to request the records in advance and then book a time to visit. Please complete an advance request for records and we will contact you to confirm your booking. Alternatively, you can email us or call on 08 9470 7580.
Computer facilities
The PCs in the Research Centre are provided by the State Library of South Australia. You can use them to search our website and records, but won't be able to access other websites, send email or use desktop applications.
The State Library provides free wi-fi for visitors.
Entry
Entry to the State Library of South Australia is free.
Getting here
Car parking
The closest parking station is Wilson Parking at 251 North Terrace, next to David Jones.
Public transport
The State Library is serviced by bus stop G1 on North Terrace. The library is 300 metres from the Rundle Mall tram stop and 500 metres from the Adelaide Railway Station. Maps and timetables are available from adelaidemetro.com.au.
Taxis
Taxis can drop off in front of the State Library on Kintore Avenue. The nearest taxi rank is on the corner of North Terrace and Kintore Avenue.
Onsite accessibility
Wheelchair access
All public areas of the State Library are wheelchair accessible.
Toilet facilities
Accessible toilets are available on Level 1 of the Spence Wing.
Assistance animals
Visitors with recognised assistance animals, including guide and hearing dogs, are welcome.
Further details about disability access
Postal address
PO Box 3563
Rundle Mall
SA 5000