Stories

News & Stories

State Library news and stories from the items in our collection.

female captain in front of ship
by Madigan Landry
Wimmin's Work
Capt. Carol Dooley has been a trailblazer her entire working life, entering into several male dominated fields, often as the first woman to do so.
2025 Library Board Awards
Nominations open
News
The 2025 Library Board of Western Australia Awards for Innovation and Collaboration are now open for nominations until Tuesday 27 May 2025.
Stef Andrews
by Susie Conte and Suzanne Worner
Wimmin's Work
A different and modern look at a female-run sex shop in Perth that authentically welcomes people in to find their own pleasure.
portrait of Pat Hart
by Kate Dunn
Wimmin's Work
The extraordinary journey of Pat Hart, the heartbeat of the Canning River.
portrait of woman with red hair an wearing a green dress
by Frances (Frankie) Gray
Wimmin's Work
With relentless gumption, a massive heart and a sprinkling of cheek, Zoe is the embodiment of a multifaceted woman.
Recipients of the WA Reflections Initiative 2025
News
Iconic rock music masses at St George’s Cathedral in the 70s and a drag king pioneer are among the subjects tackled in four new documentaries that will shine a spotlight on Western Australian history as part of WA Reflections.
2025 Judging Panel
News
Earlier this year, the State Library put out a call for readers with a critical mind and love of Western Australian books to join the judging panel for the 2025 Western Australian Premier’s Awards. 
Crowd at the 2024 Ilford Orloff Photography Awards Night
News
Experience a year of discovery at the State Library. The 2025 line-up now live with a packed program of exhibitions, talks and events celebrating Western Australia’s diverse stories and identity.
gold sticker graphic that reads Better Beginnings Celebrating 20 years
News
To celebrate 20 years of Better Beginnings, the State Library and public libraries are hosting birthday parties across WA.
Mollie Lukis at her desk
Stories
Small towns & regional cities
WA history
As the first Western Australian State archivist and first female State archivist in Australia, Mollie Frances Lukis (1911-2009) played an important role in the development of the State Archives. With great vision and knowledge she built up the collection and agitated for change.
Western Australian Premiers Book Awards pink background and numbat
News
The State Library has announced new categories, outcomes of the industry review and a call out for book judges.
Mock-up of Perth Cultural Centre precinct after the completed rejuvenation project
Rejuvenation Project
News
Construction will begin on 6 January 2025 to transform the Perth Cultural Centre precinct into an open, accessible and vibrant destination.