By ANNA USHER

Mosman Library and Stanton Library in North Sydney will open their doors, their archives and even their back rooms for a free Open Day on Thursday 30 July.

For one day only, the two libraries will run behind-the-scenes tours, hands-on activities, one-on-one book chats and story time sessions, with a chance for little ones to meet the Mayor.

It is all free, and no one needs to be a member to come along.

Both are taking part in Open Doors, Open Books, Open Minds, a coordinated day across NSW public libraries during Library and Information Week.

North Sydney: behind the scenes at Stanton

The pick of the day at Stanton is a guided tour of North Sydney Council’s archive, artwork and artifact store, led by the council’s Historical Services staff.

Most of the collection is kept out of public view, with only a small slice on display at any one time.

The tour promises everything from artworks to archaeology, and clothing to old cooking equipment, each piece carrying a story about North Sydney and its people.

The archives tour runs from 10am to 11.30am. Bookings are essential and slots are limited.

Babies and toddlers get their own moment at 9.30am, with rhymes, music, singing and puppets to build early literacy. North Sydney Mayor Zoe Baker will be there too.

The Rhymetime session suits children aged 0 to 2, but all ages are welcome, and carers need to stay and join in. No booking required.

Readers can also book a free 15-minute session with a librarian to build a personalised reading list and learn what else the library lends.

The one-on-one chats run in three windows: 10am to 12pm, 3pm to 4pm and 5pm to 6pm. Slots are limited, so book online or call the library on (02) 9936 8400.

New members who join Stanton on the day will get a special gift.

Mosman: badges, story time and a passport challenge

In Mosman, the library will run free activities from 10am to 5pm.

Families can get hands-on in the library’s Creation Space, where all ages can play with creative technology and make their own button badge.

Young children have their own event at 10.30am, a Great Library Adventure Storytime built to introduce them to the world of libraries.

There is also a Library Passport Challenge. Visitors work their way around the different library services, meet Library Manager Chris and go in the draw for prizes.

No bookings are required.

Part of a statewide push

Open Doors, Open Books, Open Minds runs across NSW public libraries on the one day.

The idea is to show off what local libraries offer, from spaces and collections to the community role they quietly play.

Stanton Library is at 234 Miller Street, North Sydney. Mosman Library is at 605 Military Road, Mosman. Both Open Days run on Thursday 30 July.