Stories from the stacks
Explore fascinating stories from the collections of the State Library of South Australia.
The stories that make us.
The Holden Collection
Take a sneak peek into the excitement of our upcoming exhibition with this short teaser of The Holden Collection. Opening in February 2025, to coincide with the Adelaide Motorsport Festival and the Adelaide Fringe, this exhibition will be a must-see cultural experience.
Cornucopia: Gardens and Gardening in South Australia
We invite you to explore a world of blooming beauty and historical wonder. Immerse yourself in South Australia's rich gardening heritage, where gardens are not just landscapes but living, breathing reflections of our past.
Lust for Lifestyle: Modern Adelaide Homes 1950-1965
Lust for Lifestyle offers insights into how the post-World War II generation of homeowners embraced modern family homes, designed by architects, which celebrated the pleasure of everyday life, their personality, and desired social status.
Port Gawler land release: The scandal of 1839
Was the Port Gawler land release of 1839 a hoax? The sandal attracted two court cases and a legacy that troubled the descendants of the families involved for many years after.
‘Kookaburra sits on the telegraph wire…’
How did Australian children connect with the Overland Telegraph? Find out in this unique story that takes a look at how children were involved with the Overland Telegraph Line.
Heroes of the skies
Discover the amazing story of the England to Australia air race of 1919, won by two of South Australia’s favourite sons, Captain Ross and Lieutenant Keith Smith, and their crew.
Great Air Race of 1919: Curator talks
Watch episodes of Stories from the Stacks featuring items from the Sir Ross and Keith Smith collection. Presented by Carolyn Spooner, Librarian at the State Library of South Australia and curator of the Heroes of the Skies exhibition held in 2019.
More stories from the stacks
What's your favourite subject? We've taken a look into the State Library's collections and discovered many tales from South Australia including stories featuring crime and infamy, stories about hotels and pubs, local history, and innovation.
Explore more stories from the State Library's collection from a South Australian perspective.
The State Library of South Australia acknowledges and respects Aboriginal people as the state’s first people and nations, and recognises Aboriginal people as traditional custodians and occupants of South Australian land and waters.
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