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.

In a major coup for the State Library of NSW, iconic images of Hollywood stars from the legendary Magnum agency will be seen by Australian audiences for the first time during the Head On Photo Festival from 18 May to 23 June 2013.            

“In 2013 we’re celebrating photography in Australia and around the world, and we’re thrilled to be the exclusive Australian host of Magnum: On Set – A Magnum Photos Touring Exhibition, presented in partnership with the Head On Photo Festival,” says NSW State Librarian and Chief Executive, Alex Byrne.

“Our Galleries are a spectacular public space and this must-see exhibition will highlight the visual and cultural experience the Library offers local and overseas visitors,” says Dr Byrne.

Magnum: On Set – A Magnum Photos Touring Exhibition, at the State Library from 18 May to 23 June, showcases 116 intimate portraits of iconic movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe, James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor, captured on film sets and behind-the-scenes by Magnum photographers. Highlights include Elliot Erwitt’s remarkable shots of Marilyn Monroe during the filming of The Seven Year Itch.

See the full media release attached