South Perth Children’s Library celebrates its 80th anniversary

Library 5 February 2025

A nostalgic selection of photos from the local history collection was on display at South Perth Library last month to mark the 80th anniversary of South Perth Children’s Library.

It was the first free children’s library in WA, founded by Phyllis Wild in 1945 and her Children’s Cultural Group of volunteers.

The group set up their library service in the old Air Raid Precautions building on the corner of Angelo and Anstey streets. By the following year the library, which was run entirely by volunteers, had 140 children enrolled as members. 

Children’s Library and its founder Phyllis were significant campaigners for the development of library services in South Perth.

The historical photos were displayed in recognition of this achievement and to acknowledge their 15 years of service to the community.

Those who missed the delightful trip down memory lane can still view the images on the Collection WA page.

Many of the images were recently digitalised as part of the Library Resources and Heritage team’s commitment to preserving and sharing the history of South Perth.