Our History
The SMSA is the oldest operating Mechanics’ School of Arts and operates the longest-running continuous lending library in Australia.
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Established in 1833, the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts has played an integral part in the fabric of Sydney’s cultural society. With deep roots in adult learning, SMSA is a member community for curious minds, literature lovers, and lifelong learners.
SMSA is a place for these people to meet and share with passion their skills, hobbies, and interests with other like-minded members and visitors.
Located within the heart of Sydney’s CBD, SMSA is home to Australia’s longest-running lending library and the Tom Keneally Centre. There is a range of meeting rooms and event spaces for hire that are perfect for hosting book tours, presentations, AGMs, workshops, and meetings.
SMSA is a not-for-profit organisation, wholly owned by our members. We are proud to have Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales and Mr Dennis Wilson as Joint Patrons.
Come explore our history and be a part of our thriving future…
Annual Reports
The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 2021 Annual Report and Audited Accounts is now available as per the By-laws in hardcopy from the Library.
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Board of Directors
The Board of the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is made up of thirteen Directors elected by the members.
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Governance
The SMSA is governed by a set of By-laws which were adopted at a General Meeting of the Members on 29 October 2019.
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Contact
If you have any questions about SMSA venue hire, library services, membership, events or accounts please fill out our contact form and we will get back to you shortly.
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