Can I read newspapers online? Yes! Access to newspapers through the National Library of Australia is better than ever. And you can read many of them online in the comfort of your own home.
So what is one offer and where do I find it? Not everything is online but there’s a lot. It all depends on the date you’re looking for and where it was published.
Let’s start with early historical newspapers. These are overseas newspapers published in the United Kingdom and the U.S. between the 16th and 19th centuries. Many of these are available through eResources so you will need your National Library card.
Now onto early Australian newspapers, 1803 to 1953. Many Australian newspapers of this period can be accessed through Trove. More out of copyright papers are being digitised all the time. Most papers between 1955 and 1990 are still in copyright and will only be available in print and microform. Just make sure you’ve got a date and place in mind before you start.
Good news! Recent newspapers are much more likely to be online. These are also available in e-resources. You can even find newspapers in languages other than English.
Don’t forget your card!
You’ll also find lots of information about specific newspapers in the catalogue. It will tell you if the newspaper is available on micro-film or online or whether you need your card to access it. You can come to us or check to see if your local or state library has what you want.
The National Library of Australia, a home for Australia’s stories.