Celebrating 10 years of the City of Perth Library building

Visit Perth23 Feb '263 min read

City of Perth Library

For the past ten years, the iconic City of Perth Library at 573 Hay Street has been a safe, welcoming and inspiring space for people of all ages – a place to learn something new, connect with others, and take a well-earned moment to unwind.

This month, we’re proud to celebrate a decade of hosting stories, discovery and community, marking ten years of our much-loved Library building being at the heart of the City.

To celebrate this special milestone, the Library will come alive from late February through March with a vibrant program of events, activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy.

The birthday festivities begin with a free Family Day on the anniversary date of Sunday 1 March, with 3D library craft, stories, and an illustration workshop inside, and storytelling out on the Cathedral Square Lawn from 12.30pm to 2.30pm. Bring along a picnic rug and settle in for a relaxed afternoon filled with reading, storytelling, live entertainment and family-friendly fun. Buy one of the new library bags designed by a local artist or become a member to receive a special silver ’10-year anniversary’ card.

View the full program of Library events

With a wide variety of workshops, talks and activities on offer, there’s truly something for everyone – so come along and be part of the celebration.

Of course, the City of Perth Library wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible community that supports it. You are the ones who fill the space with care, curiosity and connection every day.

To our patrons, partners, event speakers, staff, and everyone in between – thank you.

We’ve loved receiving your feedback over the years, hearing what you love most about the Library and what it means to you. It’s always a wonderful reminder of just how special this space is. From our friendly customer service and extensive collection to clean and welcoming meeting spaces – your feedback truly warmed our hearts.

Check out some of our favourite ‘warm fuzzies’ below:

“I've been coming to City of Perth library for the past 6 months to write my PhD Thesis (just submitted!) and would like to extend my appreciation to all the staff that have made this such a wonderful experience. I also borrowed a bunch of books! and DVD's! Libraries are such wonderful and magical places, and your efforts and lovely attitudes/vibes all contribute to that.

P.S. That large table in the foyer is stunning. Thank you, thank you, thank you! (I will be taking measurements of the desk/chair). My appreciation for libraries was already enormous, but now it is 10X that.”

“A library for everyone. Best place to study and focus. Wide variety of location to study. Level 5 has study rooms that are available to use for Young Adults. Always clean and attentive staffs. Easy to become a member and can borrow books fast. The Terrace is also open for everyone to sit outside with a nice view.”

“Without a doubt the thing I actually love the most about the City of Perth Library is its world class design! Inside and out, the building showcases something all Perth city residents and workers, like me, can be very proud of. Its circular footprint curved internal staircase and slanted open rooftop are spectacular features and collectively set an inspiring mood for all visitors, whether local or international, entering the library for whatever brings them there. It’s a really pleasant place to visit.”

“I visit the first floor a minimum of once/week as I enjoy learning and without the constraints having retired, then I immerse myself with almost everything on offer including the pleasure of being read to by one of the cast of Theatre 180. Easily accessible, helpful attentive staff and a range of activities the number and breadth of keeps me entertained and learning.”

“I LOVE your events. Haven’t been to a bad one yet. I especially like the ones that start at or after 6, as they allow me to attend after work. The events are either free or very cheap, and if you increased the fee to 20 bucks, we’d still come. Love the free food and drinks. Great job all around.”

“The Perth City Public Library is a truly wonderful place and always a joy to visit. From the welcoming atmosphere, the kind & friendly staff, to the fabulous book collection and beautiful interior design. It's a facility I'm very grateful for. I sincerely appreciate the work you and your colleagues do to make the library such a special place. My teenage son and I thoroughly enjoy visiting it together every weekend.”

“The activities arranged in the Childrens level at the library during school holidays have been fantastic this year. The most recent, Birds of Prey and Reptiles, has allowed great learning opportunities and hands on experience for my daughter. The staff are always friendly, knowledgeable and always willing to help. The craft activities are fun, creative and always something new and exciting. My daughter loves attending Story Time and the activities arranged during school holidays.”

“We have loved delivering our four Community Health Talks at your library this year. The venue has been perfect, and even when the weather has not been ideal, attendance has remained strong.”

“I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for the excellent support I received from your team. I wanted to give special recognition to the gentleman who works at the reception on the ground floor today. He was extremely thoughtful and supportive during my visit and made my work much easier. I would like to thank you and your team for the fantastic work you do in serving the community. Your dedication and hard work are truly appreciated.”

“Beautiful library, I really like that they have a dedicated space for young people, where older people can visit but are asked not to stay. The artwork is lovely and the architecture too! It’s very easy to navigate.”