News

Libraries and library professionals from across the state were honoured at the 2026 Library Board Awards, held at the State Library of Western Australia on 2 July.
The 2026 Library Board Award for Innovation and Collaboration for Metropolitan and Large Regional Libraries was awarded to the City of Kwinana for Kwinana Public Librarys Kids Clothes Swap
Fantastical worlds, grim underbellies and stories of place and identity make up this year’s shortlist, which reflects the richness and complexity of WA storytelling.
2026 Western Australian Premiers Book Awards Shortlist stack of books
The CWA Cookbook and Country Cooking
Grab a cuppa, pull up a comfy chair and watch a panel of experts explore the enduring influence of both the Country Women’s Association (CWA) and its iconic cookbook.
Yearling CWA members and friends in front of new building 1955
Inspired by State Library heritage collection items, these films explore topics ranging from the Rock Masses held at St Gerges Cathedral in the 1970’s, to the founding of Australia’s first Guide Dog school.
man standing in cemetery holding a banjo
April 2026
Help us improve by completing our survey. We want to hear from you, no matter how you use the State Library. The survey closes at 5pm on 26 April 2026.
Client Survey April 2026 promotional image
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.
Margaret Medcalf OAM visiting the State Library 2026
Gerard McCann and Louise Wolhuter
Authors Gerard McCann and Louise Wolhuter discuss their experiences winning the 2025 Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards and what it meant to them.
Authors Gerard McCann and Louise Wolhuter
The Western Australian Premier's Book Awards, a vibrant celebration of the stories and voices that define the State, has launched for 2026.
Premiers Book Awards
Round 5
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.
Child at City of Melville Library
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.
red crab on edge of ledge that has a license plate on it License plate reads Christmas Island A 12