Nedlands Library Local History Collection is dedicated to collecting, preserving, displaying, and sharing the history and culture of the City of Nedlands.
The collection spans Aboriginal heritage through to current events and covers the current and historical boundaries of the City of Nedlands Local Government area.
Our Collections
Nedlands Local History Collection comprises of books, photographs, oral histories, local newspapers, newsletters, maps, historical Council information (usually pre 2000s), memorabilia and more.
Photographs
We have both original and digital images in the collection, and we are always looking for more.
Photographs are not currently available on the library catalogue as we are engaged in a revision of this part of the collection. We are working toward placing images back on the catalogue soon and apologise for any inconvenience. Please ask for assistance if you are trying to locate any images in the meantime.
Reference Collection
Some books are available for loan on the library shelves via the library catalogue, while others can only be used within the library and may not be taken out (usually the only copy available).
If the item you are looking for is not available for loan, please contact the Local History Librarian for assistance.
As some items are rare or one-of-a-kind, if you have access to these items, we request that you treat them with every respect and care.
Oral Histories
Freemen of the City, ex-councillors, descendants of pioneering and early families, local celebrities, residents, and business owners have recorded their memories of life in Nedlands spanning from the 1920s through to modern day. These interviews are available for borrowing as part of the library’s audio collection!
If you, or someone you know has stories to share please let the Local History Librarian know and they will guide you in how to capture these precious memories.
Online Resources
Ancestry Online, FindMyPast and My Heritage can be accessed on the library’s computers through Online Resources or within the library. For other useful databases contact the Local history Librarian.
Events
Check out the Upcoming Events Calendar or grab a Nedlands Library Subjects of Note pamphlet to see what’s on in your Library this month.
Researching your Family History?
Local History runs genealogical database workshops in the Library Training Room on the second Wednesday of every month.
Bookings recommended – contact the Library to secure your spot!
Can you help?
Donations: Nedlands Local History welcomes donations of local photos, memoirs, and memorabilia. Potential donations are assessed for relevance & suitability and added accordingly to the collection. Although we actively collect material we also rely upon public donations and are always looking for photos and information about historical families/individuals, events, homes, and businesses.
Volunteering: We also welcome (subject to available schedules) volunteers to help us with preservation, digitisation, archiving and other various projects. Training is provided.
If you would like to donate items or a few hours of your time to our collection please contact the Local Studies Librarian on 9273 3644 or via the make an enquiry below.
Useful links and downloads
A Short History of Nedlands
Origins of Street Names
City of Nedlands Timeline
Our partner Western Suburbs Libraries and Museums also have some great resources:
Contact Us
Nedlands Local Studies
Nedlands Library
60 Stirling Hwy, Nedlands 6009
9273 3644
Make an enquiry