Throughout 2009, the John Oxley Library has been celebrating its 75 years of existence with a range of programs and events to mark this significant milestone. It has also been a time to reflect on the value of the collection and those who have contributed to its growth. 

It is thanks to the generosity of donors that many of our remarkable collection items are available to researchers in the John Oxley Library Reading Room.

   

In September, a special morning tea, organised by the Queensland Library Foundation, was held in the State Library of Queensland’s boardroom. The Governor-General, Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC and Mr Michael Bryce AM AE joined the State Librarian, Ms Lea Giles-Peters, and her staff to thank the many donors in attendance for their wonderful contributions to the John Oxley Library.

Among the valued guests present were Mrs Joyce Hewitt, who had donated a diary written by Ms Lucy Adams whilst on voyage from Ipswich to England in 1866 and a letter from the bushranger James Macpherson, written from Brisbane Gaol in 1869. Mrs Hewitt’s Great-Great Uncle was the turnkey at Brisbane Gaol at that time.

Well known former Brisbane TV personality, Mr Hugh Cornish, also enjoyed the event. Hugh donated his entire archive to the John Oxley Library and this provides a great insight into his personal and public life.

Hugh is seen pictured above with Ms Shirley Lahey, who has donated artworks, papers, and awards belonging to her aunt, the famous artist Vida Lahey.

We are always interested in collecting materials that document Queensland’s unique history, so if you have something tucked away under a bed, or at the back of a cupboard, please consider the benefit to future generations of donating these precious items to the State Library of Queensland. 

Contact the Heritage Collections Unit on 38407880 for more information.

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