The Humans of the Library project was inspired by the social media hit Humans of New York. Now an ongoing initiative of the State Library, Humans of the Library helps us connect with the people who breathe life into library spaces. Our ‘living treasures’ from Western Australia's unique and diverse community.
The Activist
Humans of the Library
"I am in the library because I missed my train home to Toodyay. I’m a disability and human rights activist. I’m on the Board of Disability Australia and have a regular spot on ABC The Drum.
The Library Detective
Humans of the Library
"History makes me happy. It’s cool. Since I was five I’ve been collecting old photographs, articles, books, objects and maps from my local area. Now I’m 13.
The Student
Humans of the Library
"I’m scared of the ocean. I have a recurring dream where I wake up alone in the sea with no land in sight. Perhaps it’s because I’ve watched too many shark movies.
The Monk
Humans of the Library
"I am studying to achieve a Certificate in English at TAFE. I come to the Library in the afternoons to read, do assignments and homework. I am also preparing for my Australian citizenship.
The Pilot
Humans of the Library
"I have the soul of a tomboy. I sky drive. Kick box. I ride a motor bike. I am fearless and competitive. I came to Perth from Paris (via London) three years ago on a student visa to do my dream of flying small and vintage planes like Tiger Moths.
The Believer
Humans of the Library
"These two beans from Victoria took off up north to Queensland. Ended up in ‘Cairns” (cans). Serious now, if it wasn’t for the Library I don’t know where I’d have ended up.
The Kid
Humans of the Library
"I am 10 in two days. Double figures! I like coming to the Library because I want to read and I need a quiet place to do this.
The Scientist
Humans of the Library
"As a scientist and researcher I spend a lot of my time in libraries. The library is a comforting space where I feel at home. A place to work, study and meet.
The Justice Warrior
Humans of the Library
"I work as a law clerk for a personal injury firm representing survivors of childhood sexual abuse. I’m in the Library uncovering information and images that will help our clients identify their abusers.
The Bookseller
Humans of the Library
"I grew up in a very rough part of London where you had to fight for your right to walk in the street. It was so terrible I used to hide in the library.
The Student
Humans of the Library
"One night I was studying at the State Library when a student suddenly stood up at her desk and started crying. After about two minutes she stopped, sat back down and went back to her study.
The Writer
Humans of the Library
"I have been writing since I was small. Fiction, short stories, slices of life. I don’t look back at what I have written only forward. Now I want to write longer stories and I’m in the Library reading books for inspiration.