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ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE CORNER STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND FOR KIDS

INSIDE: Everything you need to know about The Corner State Library of Queensland area & activities for children. 

Did you know that Brisbane has a little secret spot for kids hidden in the State Library right next to GOMA (QAGOMA)?  

Lots of people walk right on by, oblivious to this protruding glass box by the Library Cafe!

If you are one of those people who hasn’t yet discovered this SUPER FUN place for children aged 2 to 12, here’s the heads of what you can find inside this South Bank library.

Take a look below for details.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links, we may receive a small commission at NO extra cost to you.

queensland state library kids corner snail

Introducing The Corner State Library Queensland 

Brisbane State Library Kids Corner is a themed activity, imaginative play, and book reading space for kids aged 1-8.

The Corner at the Queensland State Library is in a hidden crook of the public library, out of earshot from the rest of the library goers who prefer the peace and quiet.

In this space, kids can be kids!

There’s room to play, climb, build, explore, discover, make new friends, tell stories, find their favourites in the book collections, and more. 


RELATED: Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to do in Brisbane with Kids

brisbane-state-library-kids-corner-book-selection

Things to do at the State Library for Kids

There are:

  • puzzles
  • books for big kids and for small
  • dress-ups and props
  • puppets
  • art and craft activities
  • kids computer activities aimed at creativity
  • toys, and
  • an activity mat for babies.

Be sure to check out the holiday activities too.

brisbane state library kids corner craft

Secrets of Brisbane State Library Kids Corner

No.1: The Sunken Lounge

Playful, excitable, and a little bit noisy is ok in this unique space that looks and feels like a sunken lounge.

The Corner is staffed by happy assistants who help to tidy up, assist with crafty fun, and point you in the right direction to awesome books.

brisbane state library kids corner lounge

No.2: Cozy nooks

There’s cozy nooks, like the life-size soft snail shell, where kids can read a book or look at pictures. 

Mums and Dads can chat to a new friend, or read a book while sitting around the outer rim of the play area (keeping half an eye on the kids at the same time)

There’s free WIFI too, so catch up on world events, news, write an email, or scroll instagram.

the corner state library of queensland climbing area pic

No.3: The Staircase & Play Area

At the far end, out of sight of library goers, there are giant stairs to climb.

At the top, in that glass box, there’s comfy cushions, an area where kids are drawn to climb and swing like orangutans in a zoo with soft gym mats underfoot. 

This area helps to occupy (and contain) the busiest of children, big and small!

brisbane state library kids corner sunken lounge pic

Current Theme at The Corner for Kids at the State Library Southbank

The Corner State Library is styled around a theme. 

Themes change about every three to four months, with props made by the talented art workers of this glorious city.

brisbane state library kids corner activities pic

State Library of Queensland Events for Kids

There are school holiday events at the State Library every term.

These workshops are inspired by a particular book or illustrator, or Indigenous culture. 

Library staff offer hands on craft activities and making opportunities for kids aged 2-12. 

Check their Facebook Page for details.

Bookings may be required. 

the state library cafe brisbane pic via fb

Image credit: The Library Cafe

The State Library Cafe Brisbane

Wondering where to eat at the State Library of Queensland? 

The Library Cafe and Coffee Shop on Level 1, just around the corner to the left from the main entry door has:

  • delicious meals like poached eggs, hauloumi with salad, or a loaded smoked pulled beef, mac ‘n’ cheese toastie
  • snacks – croissants, fruit salad and more
  • milkshakes
  • macarons and muffins
  • refreshments and
  • yummy Mantle and Moon coffee!

Hot tip: Try their Chai Latte! 

The State Library Cafe opening hours are 7.30am – 6pm daily. 

Can I take food and drinks into the State Library of Queensland?

You can bring bottled water into the library.

If you want to bring your own snacks, you may eat them on Level 1 with no restrictions, or in the outside areas of Level 2, 3 and 4. 

queenslander poster

The Queensland State Library Shop

The SLQ Library shop has a spectacular range of books for both adults and kids, including:

  • latest releases
  • popular children’s books
  • Australian fiction and non-fiction
  • cookbooks
  • design and architecture books
  • Indigenous books
  • Australian and Queensland history books 
  • a wonderful selection of Queensland’s best established and emerging authors.

The Library shop also stocks amazing Australian gifts and souvenirs.

Including:

  • maps
  • posters
  • prints
  • scarves
  • ceramics
  • brooches
  • bookmarks
  • tote bags, and more.

They also create a unique range of souvenirs and mementos inspired by every exhibition the library hosts – you might find keyrings, stationery, cards, postcards, handmade earrings, and teatowels. 

The Queensland State Library bookshop is open from:

  • Mon – Fri 10am – 5pm
  • Sat – Sun 10am – 5pm

RELATED: Ultimate Guide to the Best Australian Souvenirs

Riverside Green Playground South Bank nets and slide pic 800

Hot tip: GOMA, Streets Beach, & Southbank Playgrounds for kids

The GOMA Museum of Modern Art in Brisbane is to the right when you exit the library.

There’s always at least one exhibition suited to kids here.

Don’t go home without checking it out. 

Hot tip: Locals can book into weekly Art playgroups for babies, toddlers and preschoolers. 

Or turn the other way, and wander towards Southbank.

There, you’ll find the brightly coloured Riverside Green Playground.

If it’s heaving with children, walk on to Picnic Island Green Playground behind the River Quay restaurant.

BYO swimmers and towels for a dip at the interactive water-play park, Aquativity, or a swim at Street’s Beach.

Streets Beach is the only man-made beach with a sparkling blue lagoon surrounded by white, sandy beaches and sub-tropical plants in the middle of the city. 

Local families love it. 

brisbane state library kids corner entrance

THE INSIDE SCOOP: Brisbane State Library Kids Activities

Correct at time of publication on Roam the Gnome. Please check with venue for updates. We apologise in advance if there have been any changes we are unaware of. All prices in AUD dollars, unless otherwise stated

Address: The Corner, Ground Floor, SLQ, Stanley Place, South Bank
Telephone: 07 38407666
Website: Click here
Email: [email protected]

brisbane state library kids corner climbing stairs

Brisbane State Library Opening Hours (The Corner)

  • The State Library building is open from 10am to 5pm daily  (check with staff about opening hours for different areas in the library as these are subject to change) 
  • The Corner is open daily 10am-3pm.  
  • Do visit kuril dhagun on Level One for a range of Indigenous children’s books and activities to help kids connect to country. 

Entry Fees

  • Free entry.
  • Parents must stay with their children at all times to supervise.

brisbane state library kids corner prams sign pic

How to get to the State Library of Queensland in Brisbane

By bus: Cultural Precinct Busway Station in Melbourne Street. Chartered bus temporary set-down in Stanley Place.

By train: South Brisbane Station, corner of Melbourne and Grey Streets.

By CityCat and ferry: The CityCat and City Ferry terminals are located at South Bank 1 CityCat terminal.

Public transport information: For further public transport information contact TransLink on 13 12 30.

By bicycle: The nearest CityCycle station is located in Kurilpa Park close to the barbecues. Any problems, ring the CityCycle hotline 1300 229 253 Mon-Fri 8.30am till 5.30pm.

By foot: The State Library is a short walk from Brisbane’s CBD via Victoria Bridge, Kurilpa Bridge or the William Jolly (Grey Street) Bridge.

By Car: Click here for google map directions

State Library Parking

Parking for the Cultural Precinct is available in three neighbouring carparks under the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG), State Library of Queensland (SLQ) and the Queensland Performing Arts Complex (QPAC), all accessible via Stanley Place.

For more information, phone the QAG carpark on +61 (0)7 3840 7103.

More information is available on the Cultural Precinct.

$17 per car entry per day (subject to change).

QLD State Library Map 

Facilities at Brisbane State Library

  • Free Wifi is available throughout the library
  • Drop your large items at the Cloakroom.  Prams are welcome in The Corner in the designated parking zone.

Toadstool Rating: Queensland State Library Children’s Activities

This one is a top spot for bookworms, but there’s not so much to do for energetic kids.

the corner state library of queensland REVIEW

Looking for more things to do in Brisbane with kids?

Click the blue links below for more Brisbane tips


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