You might be a regular at your local library, but have you ever visited the State library in Perth? The library forms part of the Perth Cultural Centre, along with the Art Gallery of WA, the WA Museum and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts.
More than just a lending library, the State Library is the place to go for information about Western Australia and offers access to valuable resources for both study and personal research. If you are needing a Justice of the Peace to sign documents, you will find a JP signing service available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10am – 2pm. There is a Genealogy Centre on the 3rd floor; and the Western Australian Genealogical Society (WAGS) are in attendance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays 9.30am – 1pm to assist members with researching their family history in Western Australia and around the world.
The library hosts exhibitions throughout the year and is also home to the discovery zone, featuring artefacts from the WA Museum whilst the museum undergoes building and renovation work. When we visited there was an exhibition in the ground floor gallery based around a story titled Cicada by author and illustrator Shaun Tan. The exhibition featured original artwork, sculpture and draft illustrations from the book. The free exhibition is running from 8th February until 24th April.
On each floor there are lounge areas where you can sit and browse over the books, whilst on the ground floor, there is a dedicated computer lounge where you are able to book the use of a computer or take advantage of the free wireless access. Throughout the library there are study areas, so its always easy to find a quiet space.
On the first floor is a children’s section where children are encouraged to choose and read a book whilst relaxing on cushions scattered around the colourful area; or play with the puppets and dress ups. It’s a great way to introduce children to the magic of books and stories.
The museum also has a cafe, so you can grab a coffee and a snack whilst taking a break from studying, and for those of you who can’t resist a bit of retail therapy, there is a gift shop where you can pick up a great selection of books and interesting gifts.
There is wheelchair and pram access to the library from James or Francis Streets and lifts to all floors. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available on each floor and a parents room on the ground floor. There are also facilities provided for vision or hearing impaired people.
Details:
Address: Perth Cultural Centre, Northbridge.
Opening Hours: Monday–Thursday 9:00am–8:00pm
Friday 9;00am – 5;30pm
Saturday & Sunday 10:00am – 5:30pm
Closed Public Holidays
Parking: 24 hour undercover parking is available directly beneath the building in the No 11 Perth City Council Car Park. Entrance to the carpark is from Francis Street. Bicycle racks are available at the front of the building.
Public Transport: The Library is a short walk north of the Perth Railway Station and the Wellington Street Bus Station. Blue CAT buses travel close to the building with stops in Beaufort, Aberdeen and William Streets.
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