Historical information

1860: Kew's first library was the Kew Literary and Scientific Society, which opened on 6 August 1860.
1884: Kew Town Hall was extended and the library transferred to a room on the upper floor. This was not an ideal arrangement as the room was required for Council purposes.
1904: A cottage adjoining Kew Town Hall was purchased for use as a library.
1937: The library was closed for a major overhaul of stock and renovation of the building. It reopened in December 1937 and remained there for more than 35 years.
1973: When the Civic Centre opened in Charles Street, Kew, the library moved in.
1987: Kew Library moved to its current location in the converted city hall, overlooking the beautiful Alexandra Gardens. The library was officially opened at this site on Friday 23 October 1987 by the Mayor of Kew, Cr James Tutt.
(Source: Boroondara Library Service)

Significance

Early original photograph of a children's library service taken by a notable Melbourne photographer

Physical description

Original photograph, in original frame, of the Junior Section of the Kew Public Library in Walpole Street, Kew. The photograph was taken by Stuart Tompkins who was the photographer of choice by the City of Kew from the 1930s to the 1960s. The details of the photograph are inscribed on the water-damaged mount, with the photographers signature at lower right. .

Inscriptions & markings

"Junior Section, Kew Public Library, May 15th 1945"