About the Bible Society Collection

Since white settlement, many rare and significant bible editions found their way to Australia in the last 220 years. Many have been donated to the Bible Society. The Bible Society of Australia’s Collection is held at St Mark’s under custodial agreement.

What is in the Bible Society Collection

• Bibles printed before 1500 AD
• The first translations into Aboriginal languages
• A First Fleet bible
• Bibles belonging to the first Governors of NSW
• The Hopetoun Bible which is used to swear in all Governors General.
• Many bibles of great historical importance both nationally and world wide
• Many very rare editions
• A wide variety of translation tools

This collection is of great religious, historical and cultural importance to all Australians and it is fitting that it be kept in the nation’s capital.

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Library Special Collections Form

The Bible Society collection is not available for loan but may be viewed in the Library. 

Requesting access to special collections:

• Access to the Library’s special collections is by application.
• Applicants will receive an email notification once a request has been received.
• Library staff will confirm the availability of material and date and time for a visit.