Fairfield City Open Libraries is marking two remarkable milestones this year: 75 years of library services across our libraries and 50 years of the widely cherished Whitlam Library Cabramatta.
For half a century, Whitlam Library has been a place where friendships form, imaginations grow, and every visitor belongs. On Monday 20 October, Fairfield City Open Libraries invites the community to celebrate 50 years of Whitlam Library, a golden milestone featuring a great line up of special guest speakers including State Librarian Dr Caroline Butler-Bowden, Architect and Urban Planner Dr Glenn Harper, and Author Claire Cao followed by a historical tour of the library.
Designed by Michael Davies of Harry Seidler Associates and opened in 1975, Whitlam Library has proudly served as a hub for learning, connection, and creativity. A notable example of Brutalist architecture in Sydney, it was renamed in 1982 in honour of former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, the library remains as vibrant and community-focused today as it was five decades ago.
The event at Whitlam Library Cabramatta is part of a celebration across Fairfield City Open Libraries, marking 75 years of dedicated library services in Fairfield City and aligning with the State Library's Year of Architecture initiative, which highlights significant architectural landmarks across New South Wales.
Fairfield City Mayor Frank Carbone reflects on the legacy of the library service, one of the first public library services in Sydney, saying "Our libraries have always been places where people come together – to learn and connect, to broaden our imaginations and most importantly, to have fun." he said.
"Libraries play a vital role in enriching individual lives and strengthening communities. "
The Mayor also shared, "A child visiting today may be browsing the same shelves once explored by their great-grandparent and that's the kind of legacy we're proud to celebrate."
Fairfield City Open Libraries has continually adapted to the evolving needs of our community. Our libraries are welcoming environments that foster connection, reduce loneliness, and provide inclusive spaces where everyone - regardless of their means - can join in and truly feel part of something special.
Our dedicated volunteers and staff continue to play a role in delivering diverse programs and services, including creative arts groups, educational workshops, language and literacy support, community assistance and personal development activities.
From career expos and youth skills events to the Human Rights Leadership Forum, libraries continue to empower young people. The much-loved Home Library Service delivers books and companionship to those unable to visit, even hosting an annual Christmas celebration. Beyond books, libraries are hubs of wellbeing, where seniors paint, children discover stories, the crochet and knitting group crafts more than 200 trauma teddies each year for local hospitals. Every story begins at the library.
Local residents agree:
"The library provides a great environment for safe community connections. Through different activities, it opens opportunities for people to connect." and "The staff are like a big family" one visitor shared. "They always welcome you, and I love how you can just come and sit and read, and you don't feel lonely anymore because there are always people around".
Join us as we celebrate a legacy of stories, learning, and connection.
To find out more about our upcoming events at our libraries, or to book your place at our milestone event visit: http://www.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/OpenLibraries
How times have changed:
- In January 1961, Council advertised for a Chartered Librarian for an annual salary of £1,694 pounds and 8 shillings (approx. $3,400) for a male and £1,503 pounds and 6 shillings for a female.
- In December 1965, two borrowers were ordered by the magistrate to pay a late book return fine of £7 pounds and 10 shillings or serve 15 days hard labour.
