Sydney's First Free Subscription Library - Bent Street - Sydney - New South Wales 

Sydney's first major public library. The organisation formed in 1826 and the Library opened in rented rooms in Pitt Street, 1 December 1827, with 1,000 volumes. In 1845 the Library moved into a purpose built building on the corner of Bent and Macquarie Streets. The organisation was renamed the Australian Library and Literary Institution in 1853. After financial difficulties, in 1869 the collection and building was bought by the colonial government and became the first Free Public Library of Sydney and has since evolved into the State Library of New South Wales.

The Australian Subscription Library, located at the corner of Macquarie and Bent Streets in Sydney, played a significant role in the city's intellectual and cultural life during the 19th century. It was one of the earliest libraries established in Sydney and was a vital institution for fostering education and literary pursuits. Here's an overview of its history:

Founding and Early Years:

• The Australian Subscription Library was founded in 1826 by a group of prominent individuals, including barristers, merchants, and professionals.
• It was established as a private subscription library, where members paid a fee to access the library's collection.

Purpose and Collection:

• The library's primary purpose was to provide a range of books, periodicals, and other reading materials to its members.
• It aimed to cater to the intellectual interests of Sydney's educated elite and provide access to knowledge and culture.

Location:

• The library was initially located on Macquarie Street, near the corner of Bent Street.
• The central location made it accessible to the city's residents and professionals.

Cultural Significance:

• The Australian Subscription Library played a crucial role in promoting learning, literature, and cultural pursuits among the city's residents.
• It provided a space for members to engage in intellectual discussions and access a variety of written works.

Expansions and Changes:

• Over the years, the library underwent expansions and changes in its operations to adapt to the evolving needs of its members and the community.
• Its collection grew, reflecting the changing interests and literary trends of the time.

Closure and Legacy:

• The Australian Subscription Library faced challenges in the latter half of the 19th century, including competition from other libraries and cultural shifts.
• The library eventually closed its doors, and its collection was transferred to other institutions.

Impact and Heritage:

• The Australian Subscription Library's legacy lies in its contribution to Sydney's cultural and intellectual development during the early colonial period.
• While the library itself no longer exists, its historical significance as a hub of learning and literature is remembered.

The Australian Subscription Library at the corner of Macquarie and Bent Streets represented a place of intellectual enrichment, community engagement, and cultural exchange during Sydney's early years. Its establishment and operation reflect the city's commitment to education and the advancement of knowledge in the 19th century.