The history of the University of Sydney

The University of Sydney Campus

This collection contains historical photographs and ephemera relating to the University of Sydney from the Rare Books and Special Collections.

Photographs show the construction of faculty buildings, classes and events at the University of Sydney from around 1950–1970. One highlight includes the University of Sydney centenary celebration ceremony, which was held at Sydney Town Hall on 7 June 1950. The collection also includes ephemera of the University Carillon, campus maps, and an etching of the Great Hall at the University of Sydney by the artist Molly O'Shea. 

The Library holds many items relating to the history of the University of Sydney, including:

Access these items

Rare Books and Special Collections (RBSC) can be accessed by staff, students and academics (using existing University credentials), as well as the general public (by registering for a free RBSC community membership). 

The items in this collection can be located in the Library catalogue. Make a request to view an item, under "more options" (at least 2 business days in advance). Then visit the Rare Books and Special Collections Reading Room during opening hours to view.

Items in this collection have also been digitised. View and download scans through the Digital Collections website: The history of the University of Sydney.

Teach with this item

The Library's extensive Rare Books and Special Collections are available to support research and education, through activities including: 

  • Academic-led classes
  • Library-led classes / Object Based Learning (OBL)
  • Using digitised content

More information on teaching options