Language & Literature

Collection of paintings in the art stacks
Exploring the State Library’s Picture Book Illustration Collection
Step into the magical world of picture books with these special behind-the-scenes tours of the State Library’s children’s book art collection.
yellow background with black text that reads Stories from the West Discover the Premiers Book Awards shortlist at the State Library
Discover the Premier's Book Awards Shortlist
Join us for an afternoon of panel conversations with the shortlisted authors from the 2025 Western Australian Premier's Book Awards.
Author and illustrator Kelly Canby
with Kelly Canby
Join award-winning author and illustrator Kelly Canby for a fast, fun and fabulously un-serious illustration workshop. Kids will paint along and see how stories really come to life… mess and all.
book cover for A First Nations Perspective Stories of Nanda Resilience as Told by Elders by Steven Kelly
Stories of Nanda Resilience

There are no upcoming dates to display.

Join Nanda Elders and Dr Steven Kelly in-conversation about the resilience and perspective of a Nanda person and people.
comic illustration to promote Perth Comic Arts Festival
PCAF is back for 2025! Western Australia's premier comic arts event will take over the State Library for a packed weekend of storytelling, talks, workshops and markets.
Story Time - Dad with son

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Interactive story fun for pre-schoolers and their carers. Followed by a half hour Play Time where families can explore literacy and learning through reading, talking, singing, writing and playing together.
Better Beginnings Rhyme Time

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Songs, rhymes and stories for babies and their families, followed by an hour of Play Time to help develop early literacy and learning skills.
Reading at book on a smart device
Online digital book club. Every month, join author David Allan-Petale in conversation with a new author to discuss their book.
English Conversation session at the State Library
Practise English at the State Library
Weekly on Tuesday and Wednesday, 1:30 - 2:30pm until Wed 24 Sep 2025
Join our English conversation groups, a friendly place to practise your language skills and make new friends.