State Library of Western Australia, Public library in Perth Cultural Centre, Australia
The State Library of Western Australia sits within Perth's Cultural Centre and houses over one million books, manuscripts, maps, and digital materials. The collection spans many subjects and time periods, making it a central resource for research, learning, and browsing.
Established in 1889 as Victoria Public Library to honor Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee, the institution grew into the state's main library. Over time it expanded its holdings and shifted toward serving the entire community with both heritage materials and contemporary resources.
The library holds materials that tell the story of Western Australia's development through Indigenous voices, photographs, and written records. Visitors can explore these collections to understand how the state's diverse communities have shaped its identity.
Free access to e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and newspapers is available to members, with computer stations and research help on-site. Set aside plenty of time to explore the different sections, as the collection is extensive and easy to get lost in.
The library runs the Better Beginnings program, which sends reading materials directly to families across the state. This shows how the institution extends its work beyond its walls to help young children discover books early on.
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