From brutalist monuments to tiny local spaces, visiting libraries while traveling can be as culturally illuminating as exploring local markets. The Australian Library and Information Association's Deputy CEO Trish Hepworth is an avid library explorer who has dragged her family into libraries big and small across five continents. Trish will explore how libraries offer unique windows into local cultures-- revealing what communities value through their collections, programs, and spaces.

From architectural marvels at university libraries to specialized collections that tell distinctive stories, this talk will inspire you to add libraries to your travel itineraries. Discover how these intellectual havens can provide authentic insights into communities that typical tourist attractions simply can't match.

Perfect for bibliophiles, cultural explorers, and curious travellers seeking deeper connections during their journeys. Join us for an enlightening talk on the joy of library tourism.

A light refreshment of afternoon tea will be provided at the end of the talk as well as opportunities for conversation.

Unable to attend in person? This event will be livestreamed. Purchase an online ticket to participate in the livestreamed event.

Inspired to sightsee and travel? Check out Hidden Libraries: The world's most unusual book depositories at the Library Bookshop. This event is presented by the Friends of the National Library of Australia. 

Image: James N. Vickers, Public Library, Melbourne, Victoria, 1879, nla.gov.au/nla.obj-501530595