News

Margaret Medcalf first joined the State Library of Western Australia’s Archives Branch in 1955.In 1971, she was appointed to the dual role of State Archivist and Principal Librarian of the Battye Library, becoming Western Australia’s second State Archivist.

Authors Gerard McCann and Louise Wolhuter discuss their experiences winning the 2025 Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards and what it meant to them.

The Western Australian Premier's Book Awards, a vibrant celebration of the stories and voices that define the State, has launched for 2026.

The State Library is pleased to announce 15 successful recipients to share in $208,000 through this year’s Better Beginnings Community Grants. The annual grants program supports recipients to deliver early reading and literacy activities tailored to their communities.

The State Library is the place to be this summer. Whether you’re after free entertainment or a quiet escape, we’re open almost every day under our new opening hours.

The State Library of Western Australia has celebrated the 20th anniversary of Better Beginnings by launching new look program resources and a newly published version of the iconic Baby Ways book. 

Four new documentaries inspired by lesser-known Western Australian historical events will be showcased in a series of free screenings as part of WA Reflections.

Share your experiences of the State Library of Western Australia by completing our client survey and go in the draw to win a $100 voucher. The survey opens on 13 October and closes on 26 October 2025.

Better Beginnings baby packs feature a brand-new wordless book, Baby Days, by award-winning Western Australian author Renae Hayward and illustrator Rebecca Mills.

The State Library proudly hosted the 2025 Library Board of Western Australia Awards as part of Library and Information Week — a celebration of excellence in libraries.