Young artists will create their very own characters with Leigh Hobbs, Australian Children’s Laureate, author and artist, creator of the Old Tom, Horrible Harriet and Mr Chicken books, in this exciting workshop at The National Library of Australia. 

Older audiences (14+) are invited to join Leigh Hobbs – author, artist, and creator of the Old Tom, Horrible Harriet, Mr Badger and Mr Chicken books, for an exciting, hands-on workshop.

Join the iconic author and illustrator Leigh Hobbs in conversation as he explores his artistic evolution and celebrates the publication of his twenty-first book.

*Booked out* Celebrate the launch of one of NLA Publishing's newest children’s books Bird Park, with a morning of stories and wildlife encounters.

Celebrate the launch of one of NLA Publishing's newest children’s books Paddle Steamer Pearl, with a morning of stories, craft and wooden boat races!

Discover the decades-long, remarkable efforts of the Papunya community to record language and culture and keep it alive.

Ahead of NAIDOC Week 2026 we celebrated Torres Strait Islander tradition and culture.

We read 'Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller' on the 27 May!

Topic
Family, kinship, care, responsibility

Topic
What stories do, and why they exist.

Module
This Digital Classroom module invites students and teachers to explore the Papunya readers. Aligned with the Australian Curriculum: HASS, English and The Arts and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures cross-curriculum priority, this resource encourages students to learn about Country, language, storytelling and the purposes stories serve.

Learn with the curatorial team behind the recently refreshed Treasures Gallery and hear some of their favourite stories behind the collections and services of the Library.