In conversation with Pip Williams and Peter Zajicek

Description

Join us for a conversation between Pip Williams, author of the internationally acclaimed novels The dictionary of lost words and The bookbinder of Jericho, and Peter Zajicek, Senior Conservator at the State Library of South Australia.

Our discussion will delve into how Pip has engaged with the State Library's collection and Peter’s role as advisor and bookbinding mentor for her recent novel.

Pip Williams

Pip Williams was born in London, grew up in Sydney, and now lives in the Adelaide Hills with her family and an assortment of animals. She has spent most of her working life as a social researcher, studying what keeps us well and what helps us thrive, and she is the author of One Italian summer, a memoir of her family's travels in search of the good life, which was published by Affirm Press to wide acclaim.

Her first novel, The dictionary of lost words, based on her original research in the Oxford English Dictionary archives, was published in 2020 and became an international bestseller. The bookbinder of Jericho is her second novel, a companion to The dictionary of lost words, and again combines her talent for historical research and beautiful storytelling.

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.