Standards and guidelines

Standards

NSW Public Library Objectives and Standards are a set of recommended standards to support high-quality public library services.

people sitting in a library using laptops and standing at library shelves looking at books

NSW Public Library Guidelines

NSW Public Library Guidelines are a set of principles and practices for developing levels of performance which lead to quality library services.

Woman standing at a group of shelves in a room

Library Council guidelines

The Library Council of NSW issues guidelines for local authorities operating NSW public libraries under section 10(5) of the Library Act 1939.

Spiral staircase with a bookcase at the bottom

Best practice guidelines

NSW multicultural library service benchmarks

The benchmarks are best practice standards that libraries can use to evaluate their services to local CALD communities.

Indigenous spaces in library places

A strategy to encourage public libraries across NSW to build greater awareness, support and engagement with Indigenous peoples and communities.

Digital practice guidelines

The guidelines provide an introduction for public libraries that are involved in digitisation projects, including providing access and storage for born digital objects and digital preservation.

Early language and literacy framework

The framework provides guidance for public library staff to ensure these sessions optimise their early literacy and early learning impact.

People Places

A guide to assist library staff with the planning and design of public library buildings. 

Long shot inside a room with plants on the wall and hanging from above

Additional resources

The APLA-ALIA Standards and Guidelines for Australian Public Libraries, May 2021 were developed by the Australian Public Library Alliance and the Australian Library and Information Association. These standards are designed to be used in conjunction with state and territory standards and guidelines.