West Australian Authors
Centre for the Book - 4 February to 16 March 2005
A tribute to past and present West Australian Authors whose published books are in the JS Battye Library of West Australian History collection. Prolific authors such as Dorothy Hewett, Elizabeth Jolley, Jack Davis, Randolph Stow, Mary Durack, Leslie Rees, Xavier Herbert, TAG Hungerford, Nene Gare, Katharine Susannah Prichard are featured.

Chinese Script —from Oracle Bones to Computer Bytes
Mezzanine Level – 01 February to 13 March 2005
For thousands of years, thoughts and ideas have been conveyed around the globe through the use of written languages. According to legend, one of these languages was invented over 5,000 years ago by Cangjie, a Chinese official who was inspired by the footprints of animals and birds he saw around him. These images moved him to create the characters that became the basis of Chinese script. Today, Chinese script is one of the oldest and most widely used writing systems in the world. This exhibition explores the history behind this written language and the impact it has had on the world. Entry to the exhibition is free and you can read the media release for further information.

The State Library Shop 30% off Everything Sale
Every item in The State Library Shop has been discounted - find a bargain today!

Treasures of the Battye Library
Explore some of the many treasures from the fascinating collections of the Battye Library. The Battye Library has a vast array of publications including books, newspapers, periodicals, maps, ephemera, as well as original records such as oral history tapes, photographs and artworks, films and video, and non-government records kept in the library's Private Archives collection.

WA Musical Memories Online
WA Musical Memories Online provides access to the digitised musical scores that the State Library has contributed to the National Library's MusicAustralia project. These scores reflect the mood of the nation in the early part of the 20th century. Many of the scores are written by West Australians, including the three-time Governor of WA, Sir William Robinson. Print friendly copies of the scores are available.

New CEO and State Librarian
The State Library of Western Australia has a new CEO and State Librarian, Ms Margaret Allen. The Hon. Sheila McHale, MLA, Minister for Community Development; Women's Interests; Seniors and Youth; Disability Services; Culture and the Arts has announced the appointment of Ms Margaret Allen as State Librarian.

Encyclopedia Britannica Online
Members of Western Australia’s public libraries and people visiting the Alexander Library Building now have access to Encyclopaedia Britannica Online, a web-based product with information suitable for all ages.

2004 @ your library
Libraries throughout Western Australia have been invited to participate in a State-Wide Marketing Campaign. Check out the website and be a part of the action!

Western Australian Premier's Book Awards
Entries for the 2004 WA Premier's Book Awards have now closed, with 134 entries received. The shortlist will be announced in April and the presentation dinner and announcement of the winning entries will be in late May. A new award, the Western Australian History Award, has been added for the 2004 Awards for a significant historical work that makes a major contribution to the understanding of Western Australia's past. The Minister for Culture and the Arts, Hon Sheila McHale has released a media statement announcing the Western Australian History Award. You can find out more about this year's awards or the past winners.

Information Gateways
Three new Hot Topics have recently been added to the State Library's Information Gateways. The Business of Art Hot Topic, Career Information Hot Topic and Unclaimed Money Hot Topic have been produced to guide people to key resources in this subject area.

Exhibitions and Displays
A range of exhibitions and displays are presented throughout the Alexander Library Building.

Film Screenings
The State Library regularly presents film screenings in the comfortable surroundings of the Alexander Library Building theatre. Screenings are hosted by the State Film and Video Library in conjunction with other organisations such as the Film and Television Institute, the International Film Theatre and the Consulate-General of Japan.

The Wednesday Matinee screenings are presented from February to November at 12.30pm for your enjoyment. Admission is free. The 2005 programme is now available for you to view.

Media Releases
Find out what is happening from our recent media releases.

Publications
A range of publications are produced to promote our services and collections and to assist clients in using the collections.

Friends of Battye
Library The Friends of Battye Library is a society to assist and promote the interests of the J.S. Battye Library of West Australian History and the State Records Office, with particular concern for the acquisition, preservation and use of archival and documentary materials. They hold regular meetings and publish a newsletter.