Cook, Flinders and First Fleet documents and other extraordinary pieces from the State Library’s world-renowned collection are heading to six areas in NSW’s Central West region from 27 to 30 May as part of the Library’s exciting initiative, Far Out! Treasures to the Bush.

“Students from 16 primary schools in the Central West will get to see some of Australia's most prized historical items first-hand, thanks to the support of  the Caledonia Foundation,” said Alex Byrne, NSW State Librarian and Chief Executive.

“The State Library is committed to connecting regional communities with the original documents of Australia, including items relating to the British discovery and exploration of our nation,” Dr Byrne said.

Following the success of Far Out! in 2012 and the ongoing support of The Caledonia Foundation, students in regional areas across Molong (27 May), Canowindra (28 May), Eugowra (28 May), Condobolin (29 May), Trundle (29 May) and Peak Hill (30 May), will be given the opportunity to view the actual handwritten letters of Mary Reibey and First Fleeters for the very first time.

“We’re adding more and more riches to our website every day, and providing remote access to a wealth both of our heritage material and today’s high quality online resources, seeing these original and unique historic items has a special appeal!” says Dr Byrne.

See the full media release attached.

Dr Alex Byrne is available for interviews

The NSW Premier’s Literary Awards were announced tonight at the State Library of NSW, with a total of $305,000 offered across 12 prizes.

NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell said: “I am once again delighted to see a wealth of varied and innovative works in this year’s Premier’s Literary Awards. The winners are indicative of the high standard of Australian literature and writing which is so highly regarded, both here and internationally.”

Minister for the Arts, George Souris MP, commented:  “The NSW Premier’s Literary Awards are an opportunity for NSW to celebrate and encourage Australia’s literary community. While providing financial support to some of our nation’s best writers – both established and emerging – we recognise that reading books and writing are an important part of the arts and creative industries, and of great value to our culture.”

According to Senior Judge, Dr Kathryn Heyman: “Australian writers are engaging fiercely and lyrically with issues of contemporary importance, and bringing new insights to past stories.”

“It’s fantastic to see winning titles from both small presses and main house publishers,” said Dr Heyman.

Awards highlights:

Book of the Year: Ruby Moonlight by Ali Cobby-Eckermann (Magabala Books)
Christina Stead Prize (Fiction): Mateship with Birds by Carrie Tiffany (Pan Macmillan Australia)
People’s Choice: Animal People by Charlotte Wood (Allen & Unwin)
Special Award: David Ireland AM, one of only four Australian writers to win the Miles Franklin Award more than twice.

See the full list of winners and judges’ comments attached.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Vanessa Bond, Media & Communications Manager, State Library of NSW
(02) 9273 1566, 0411 259 898, vbond@sl.nsw.gov.au
                                   

Minister for the Arts, George Souris, has announced grants of $2.5 million for public libraries across the state in the annual Library Development Grants and Country Libraries Fund programs.

Mr Souris said 34 local councils will receive grants for projects, providing significant public benefit and improving public library services for NSW citizens.

"Public libraries play a critical role in our communities by providing access to collections, information and technology that help people at all stages of their lives. The NSW Government is committed to working with councils to enhance library services and facilities across the State," Mr Souris said.

"I am particularly delighted that $2 million of the funding allocation will be directed to rural and regional libraries as part of the Country Libraries Fund Grants.

"It is essential that regional residents enjoy the same services, access to information and levels of connectivity that are offered by public libraries in metropolitan areas".

Mr Souris said this latest funding allocation brings the total of State Government support for NSW libraries in 2012/13 to $26.5 million and more than $53 million since March 2011.

See the full media release attached.