Comics, zines and graphic novels are having a moment right now. This month we’re celebrating Australian graphic storytellers and comic makers with a live performance event, a panel discussion on material acquired for the Library’s comics collection, and a hands-on comic adventure for kids.

Legendary children’s book creator Leigh Hobbs joins us for an in-conversation event reflecting on his creative journey, and he will also present two exclusive drawing workshops. Also on the program, iconic illustrator and cartoonist Judy Horacek brings her comedy cartoon stage show Everyone on the bus fell down (not just me) to Canberra.

With an abundance of author talks, book launches and two opportunities for the public to see rarely shown treasures from our collections, the Library is the place to be in November.

Celebrating Australian comics

Read to Me: live graphic storytelling

13 Nov | 6:00pm | Free, in-person and online

An evening of genre-defying stories with big pictures from national and local comic makers and graphic storytellers. 

Folio: Stories of Australian comics

14 Nov | 10:00am | Free, in-person and online

A group of academics were given the heady task of visiting as many comics and zine fairs in the country as possible. 

Drawing with Georgina Chadderton

15 Nov | 2:00pm | Free

Graphic novelist and author Georgina Chadderton hosts a hands-on comic adventure for ages 7+.

Collection viewings

Birds of a Feather: Friends 2026 collection viewing

4 Nov | 5:30pm | $35-$40

Marvel at the beauty of birds and the many ways they are represented in the Library’s collection. 

Special event: New acquisitions showcase

20 Nov | 12:00pm - 3:00pm | Free

A rare opportunity to view recently acquired material for the Library’s collection and chat with curators.

Author talks and book launches

Going Digital: The Transformation of the ABC

5 Nov | 6:00pm | $21 - $24

Author Margaret Simons discusses her latest book on how the ABC has re-invented itself.

Book launch: Bird Park

7 Nov | 10:00am | Free

Join us for a morning of stories and wildlife encounters. Featuring special guests from Canberra Walk in Aviary.

Judy Horacek: Everyone on the bus fell down (not just me)

10 Nov | 6:00pm | $25 - $30

This fun-filled 50 minutes of cartoons features stories about Judy’s life as a cartoonist and children's book creator.

Book launch: Lachlan Kalari Bila - Sweet Water to the Sea

18 Nov | 6:00pm | Free, in-person and online

Learn about this First Nations-led collection of stories celebrating the Kalari Bila, the Lachlan River.

Leigh Hobbs: A creative life

19 Nov | 6:00pm | Free, in-person and online

The creator of the Old Tom, Mr Chicken and Horrible Harriet books explores his artistic evolution.

Leigh Hobbs: creative workshops

21 Nov | 10:30am & 1:30pm | $20 - $45

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a drawing workshop with the acclaimed author and illustrator. There is a morning workshop for ages 8 – 12 and an afternoon workshop for older participants 14+.

Book launch: Paddle Steamer Pearl

21 Nov | 10:00am | Free

Meet the authors and stay on afterwards to build and race your own wooden paddle boat!

Exit Party by Emily St John Mandel

25 Nov | 6:00pm | $21 - $24

Canberra Writers Festival presents bestselling author Emily St John Mandel discussing her latest book.

The Craft of Science Fiction

26 Nov | 6:00pm | $25 - $30

Award-winning Australian science fiction authors explore the ways science fiction writing tangles with real life.

What else is on?

Teacher professional development workshop

12 Nov | 3:30pm | $15

Explore treasures from the Library’s collection and learn how students can access reliable sources.

Lunchtime concert: Voicing the feminine

17 Nov | 12:30pm | Free, in-person and online

Enjoy a delightful salon-style concert featuring arias and music celebrating feminine identity.

Story Dogs on Sunday

29 Nov | 11:00am | Free, no bookings necessary

Drop in for story time with trained volunteers and their accredited dogs. 

Media enquiries

Lauren Conron, Media Liaison, National Library of Australia

Phone: 0401 226 697

Email: media@nla.gov.au