Fryer Library and FW Robinson Reading Room

The Fryer Memorial Library of Australian Literature (Fryer Library) was established in 1927 and named in memory of UQ student John Denis Fryer. 

The FW Robinson Reading Room is named for Professor Frederick Walter Robinson, the founder of the Fryer Library. It is a quiet study space open by appointment to researchers, visitors and members of the UQ community using special collections, including those held in the Fryer Library and the University of Queensland Archives. 

Opening hours

Appointments are typically available Monday to Thursday from:

• 9:30am to 12:30pm (note the Reading Room is closed on Wednesday mornings)
• 1:30 to 4:30pm. 

Availability may vary due to events and UQ courses held in the Reading Room. 

View all our opening hours

Using the reading room

Like the collection it holds, the Reading Room is special. A warm, open space with a librarian available to assist you, the environment is ideal for anyone wanting to research or study with special collections materials.

The cabinets around the room house rotating exhibitions, and the purpose-built Teaching Space regularly hosts classes and events.

Reading Room rules

Because our special collections need a little extra care our rules are different from other study spaces on campus.

The Reading Room is for quiet research and study only. Please:

• put your belongings, and all food and drinks in the storage provided
• mute your mobile devices
• use pencil only – no ink.

Using special collections

Rules for handling rare, unique or fragile materials are critical to their preservation:

• Wash and dry your hands before handling items. Ensure they are free of hand lotion and moisturiser.
• Handle items with care and ensure they're properly supported. We will provide book supports, page weights and gloves as needed and guidance for handling fragile items.
• Retain the original order of items in folders and boxes. This is an important practice. Only 1 container (box, parcel or other) will be issued at a time to help with this.
• Request an archival bookmark if you need one. To flag a page of interest to your research, use a piece of clean white paper or see Fryer staff if you don't have one. Avoid using post-it notes or bulky objects as place markers.

Please bring any item damage or deterioration you notice to our attention. This helps us act to preserve collections in need sooner. 

Document delivery

If a document delivery item that you requested has arrived and the pick-up location is 'Fryer Library', you must use it in the Reading Room as the item may not leave the Library.

Book an appointment to view your document delivery materials.