Held from 15–23 August 2026, National Science Week connects communities with scientists, researchers and stories that showcase the impact of science in everyday life.

As one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions, the National Library plays a vital role in sharing the stories of scientific discovery. From rare books and manuscripts to digital resources for children and adults, the Library offers unique insights into Australia’s scientific history and contemporary innovation.

Whether through events or digital resources, the National Library invites everyone to discover the many ways science shapes our past, present and future.

Listen to our new podcast

The final episode of our newly released podcast The Memory Tapes celebrates the curiosity, creativity and determination that have driven Australian innovation across generations.  

Bright Sparks: The Story of Australian Innovation brings together voices from the National Library’s Oral History and Folklore Collection, and explores how Australians have tackled complex challenges, expanded human knowledge and shared cultural wisdom in ways that have transformed lives both here and around the world.

From ancient knowledge systems to Nobel Prize-winning discoveries and the next frontier of space exploration, Bright Sparks: The Story of Australian Innovation showcases the many ways Australians have imagined, created and innovated, leaving a lasting impact on the world. 

Women in the Space Industry collection

If you want to know more about space, why not take time to discover the Women in the Space Industry project; the first combined oral history and photographic archival collection to document the experiences of women working in the space sector.  

Captured by Louise Whelan, these interviews and photos highlight the work of astrophysicists, engineers, Australia’s first astronaut, and many more.