What's new at our libraries: May 2026

Libraries aren’t just a place for books (but we love them too!). This month we’re highlighting all the wonderful services, programs and resources that you might not know your local library provides.

From basic digital support services, learning about your family history online, or joining our drop-in Job Ready sessions, our libraries are a rich source of information and support for all ages.

Also don't forget to share your thoughts in our Library Survey before 4pm 7 May. Your feedback goes a long way to help us improve the services we provide.

Jump to:   Music & Games |  Heritage | Events, Programs & Clubs  |  Services  | Notices

Books & Magazines

Featured eBook

Come Together Again: A Celebration of First Nations Music, Song and Dance
Isaiah Firebrace and Jaelyn Biumaiwai (illustrator)
This delightful picture book teaches young readers about the integral role music and performance have played in 60,000 years of First Nations history and culture.

Featured adult book

Ngirramanujuwal: The art and country of Jimmy Pike
Paris Norton, Leah Wilson and Pat Lowe
Take action towards reconciliation by exploring the significance of Country to First Nations peoples through the art and cultural knowledge of renowned Walmajarri artist Jimmy ‘Kurnti’ Pike.

New book release

The baby play guide: practical ways to introduce developmental play with your baby in their first year
Emily Kearns
Enhance your parenting journey with our libraries' parenting collection. This practical, illustrated guide offers fun and stimulating daily activities to encourage bonding and support your baby’s development.

Featured children's book

Luna Roo the kangaroo baller
Adam Jackson, Adrian Lloyd and Jake A. Minton (illustrator)
Join Australia’s community of young readers for National Simultaneous Storytime. This year's featured title delivers an inspiring message about the power of courage and determination.

Featured magazine

Choice magazine
Confused by reviews and ratings? Visit our libraries to access the interactive Choice Magazine website to compare our 5000 products and understand your consumer rights. Talk to the team about log in details. 

Music & Games

Featured board game

Pictionary: Quick Sketches, hilarious guesses
Plan your next family activity with a classic board game that everyone can play! Includes adult and junior options.

Heritage

Ancestry Library Edition
Visit our libraries to find out about your family history. With access to Ancestry Library Edition, you can search the world's largest online family history resource of billions of records including census, birth and migration data. 

Events, Programs & Clubs

Popcorn and Pictures at the Library: This Beautiful Fantastic
21 May 2026 1pm
South Perth Library, FREE
Grab a cuppa and join us fora charming modern fairy tale about a reclusive young woman whose life is transformed through an unexpected friendship and a neglected garden. 

Staying Safe Online: Banking
28 May 2026 10am
South Perth Library, FREE
Learn how to stay safe against scams and fraud, create strong passwords, securely access online banking and stay digitally safe while travelling. 

Get Job Ready
Wednesdays during school terms, 11.30am - 12.30pm
Manning Library, FREE
Jump-start your career with support to write resume and cover letters, conduct job searches, address selection criteria and prepare for interviews with our experienced Career Advisors. Drop-ins are welcome.

Services

Digital Support
Need a hand with basic online tasks? We can assist with general tasks to get you started, like accessing your email, downloading forms or using our digital catalogue. Feel free to ask any of our team members.

Kooyar Youth Zone
Check out our brand-new youth space at Manning Library, fit with couches, board games and a charging station, so you can bring your friends and devices to relax, chill and connect. Available for free use on weekdays after 2.30pm.

Library Notices

• Have your say about your libraries: Members and non-members aged 14 and over are invited to provide feedback by completing a quick survey online or a hardcopy in the libraries before 7 May.
• This is your last chance to enter your creative story in this years' South Perth Young Writers Award (SPYWA)! Boost your writing skills, learn from established authors, a go into the running to win great prizes. Entries close 18 May.

Visit our Libraries page for more information, resources and upcoming events. You can also subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter mySnapshot.