Exhibitions

Ella and Faulkner Mackay looking at photograph album
Cherished Family Mementos from the Collection
Dates
The Keepsake exhibition examines why mementos and everyday objects often hold the key to family history and ultimately shape who and how we identify ourselves. Showcasing cherished family moments from the State Library’s collection.
Ilford Orloff Awards Exhibition 2024
Pro Photography WA
Dates
Photography exhibition revealing the finalists in the second annual Ilford Orloff Awards. Named after one of WA’s pioneering photographers, Izzy Orloff, the Awards celebrate the best in contemporary professional photography across the State.
May Holman ca 1917
Roll of Honour
Dates
The WA Women’s Hall of Fame recognises more than 300 women for their inspiring work and achievements. This exhibition spotlights inductees whose legacy lives on through the Roll of Honour and in the State Library’s collection.
Mechanical fitter apprentice Alex Remkes with production technicians Sammy Petrucco and Jo Anne Secker working at the BHP Billiton port facility in Port Hedland 2017
Dates
Suited, booted and ready for anything. A collection of photographs charting the way women have used their wardrobes to stamp their identity working inside or outside of the home.
On the Way to Nanas cover artwork spread
Dates
Hop into a four-wheel drive and embark on a 1000km road trip through Western Australia’s breathtaking Kimberley landscape. Visit the Story Place Gallery on the Mezzanine Level for our latest kids’ exhibition.
Sam Lovell standing beside his tour vehicle in the Kimberley c1987
Dates
An in-depth look at Kimberley icon Sam Lovell’s trailblazing contribution to WA’s cultural tourism industry. Discover Sam’s life as a drover, road builder, storyteller, tour guide and country musician.

Upcoming Events

Performers on stage 1930 Ambassadors Theatre
The evening will feature poetry, dance and narrative touching on the themes of grief, identity and legacy, showcasing the works of Western Australian poets Lisa Collyer and Kerry Greer and musician and dance artist Brigitte Underwood-Legeron.
Performing on ponies Hylands Circus at Katanning 1907
A new series of audio, audio-visual and photographic stories exploring the contribution of women living and working in WA. Meet the journalists and creators for a discussion about women and work.
Jessica Gethin
Jessica Gethin is an award-winning conductor, musician, artistic advisor and fierce advocate for women in music. Jessica was the inaugural Chief Conductor of the Perth Symphony Orchestra (2011-2019) and has held many significant roles.
Perth Cultural Centre 10 August 1987 including State Library of WA
The State Library is celebrating 40 years since the opening of the Alexander Library Building with behind-the-scenes tours and talks.
people sitting at table looking at comics from above
PCAF is back for 2025! Perth’s premier comic arts event will take over the State Library for a packed weekend of storytelling, talks, workshops and markets.

Awards, Grants, Fellowships & Projects

Tom Jewell and sister Joan at the Royal Show 1949
Information on Battye Fellowships, Premier's Book Awards, scholarships and Library Board awards.
Child and parent looking at Kids Kanopy on laptop screen
Find out about available community, public library and Better Beginnings Grants.
Physical exhibitions turned into virtual tours and digital exhibitions.