Membership
Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts Membership
For over 190 years, the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts (SMSA) has been welcoming members to their home in Sydney’s CBD to engage in thought-provoking activities and events.
SMSA is a place for people to meet and share with passion their skills, hobbies and interests with other like-minded members and visitors.
Home to Australia’s longest-running lending library and the Tom Keneally Centre, SMSA members with a thirst for knowledge and a love of literature can relish these resources at their leisure.
Members are invited to enjoy our diverse program of talks, screenings, and special events and join our special interest groups that form such an important aspect of our community.
Discover the Benefits of SMSA Membership
Open your mind with an SMSA Membership
Please note, our memberships follow the calendar year – starting on 1 January and expiring on 31 December, regardless of date joined.
Membership | $50
Annual membership that gives you access to all Member benefits.
Concession Membership | $40
Annual membership that gives you access to all Member benefits. Available for Pensioner Concession Card holders only.
Student Membership | $40
Annual membership that gives you access to Member benefits, excluding voting rights.
*Memberships are annual, pricing effective from 1 October 2025
How to join Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts
We invite you to come visit us in person during opening hours, to tour the venue and learn more about our many social groups and activities. Grab a cuppa from our café and explore our warm and inviting community.
You can then join in person at the Library on Level 2 during opening hours or complete the membership application form online. There is no requirement to book an appointment.
SMSA Members Library
Our Library on Level 2 is Australia’s longest running lending library and has been the beating heart of the SMSA since 1833, serving plot twists for over 190 years.
Our collection is very broad, with new books coming in every month but our point of pride is the Mystery and Crime section. It’s our not-so-guilty pleasure and while we don’t like to start rumours, word on the street is that it may the largest private collection in the country.
Your Library Perks:
- A peaceful place in the heart of the CBD to wander, read or connect
- Borrow up to ten items including two new releases
- 8 week loan period for most books; 2 weeks for new books and magazines.
- 24/7 access to eBooks and Audiobooks (21 day loans). Read on your computer, smartphone, eReader or tablet
- Download eMagazines using your computer, smartphone or tablet with Libby
- Free Wi-Fi, computer access and plenty of comfortable spots to read, work or relax.
- Stream films & documentaries on any device with Beamafilm
- Read local, national and international newspapers
- Fuel up with a coffee in Cuthbert’s, our members only café space.
The Tom Keneally Centre
SMSA is proud to be the home of the Tom Keneally Centre. Affectionately known as the TKC, it is Thomas Keneally’s living legacy to Australia, holding books Tom has read and/or used to research his various books.
Devoted to Australian literature and history, the TKC regularly hosts literary events such as readings and author talks, and is Tom’s office in the city.
- Visit the Tom Keneally Centre by appointment only on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10:30am – 2:30pm
- Contact the library team to arrange your visit – 02 9262 7300 or library@smsa.org.au
- Borrow 2 books from the TKC for up to 4 weeks.
- Explore the ‘red dot collection’ that has hand-written notes by Tom Keneally explaining its significance to him and why it has a place in his library.
Talks & Events
The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is a stage for ideas, stories and conversation. Our year round program brings together thinkers, creators and curious minds through talks, screenings and special events.
As a member, you’ll never miss a moment. Enjoy early access to ticket pre-sales, free or discounted entry and a curated calendar designed to challenge and inspire.
What’s on your agenda?
Talks that make you think – From hidden histories to tomorrow’s science, art, literature and current affairs.
Workshops and music – Hands-on learning and performances that move you.
Film screenings – Classic cinema from Hollywood and around the globe, free for members.
Wellbeing and lifestyle – Conversations that nourish your mind, body and spirit.
Whether you’re here for the ideas, the films, or the company, there’s always a seat waiting for you.
Member Groups
In addition to our talks and events, we also run member-only events throughout the year. Members can participate in groups:
- Social Chess Group
- French Conversation Group (Intermediate)
- Canasta
- Mah Jong (Beginners & Advanced)
- Social Bridge Group
- Mystery & Crime Reading Groups
- The BAD Book Club
- Reel Life Movie Matinee each month
- Come along to member-only events held throughout the year
Partner Organisations
Think of your SMSA membership as a backstage pass. Every so often, we receive exclusive discounts and special offers from our partner organisations – and they’re yours to enjoy.
We don’t just hide them in the fine print. You’ll find these curated perks announced in our newsletter, landing right in your inbox. It’s our way of saying: your curiosity deserves a little extra.
Stay tuned. Your next favourite experience could be just an email away.