This is a Council led event.

13/05/2026 - Hurstville Library.

Discover how collections are cared for and transformed at The Conservator Is In. Drop in to Hurstville Library to watch the Research & Community History team and Hurstville Museum & Gallery staff as they conserve, rehouse, and digitise items from the community history and museum collections. Throughout the day, visitors can observe live demonstrations using professional tools and materials, learn how fragile documents and objects are stabilised, and see how digitisation supports long‑term preservation and access.

Visitors are also invited to bring a small selection of items from home (photographs or photo albums, paper documents, VHS tapes, or cassette tapes only) for staff to assess and answer questions about their condition or format. While staff cannot provide conservation treatment or detailed preservation advice, they can help visitors understand what they are looking at and discuss general collection‑care considerations.

The session will also feature the library’s new digitisation station, demonstrating how VHS and cassette recordings can be converted into digital files and how flatbed scanning preserves 2D items such as photos and documents.

This free, drop‑in event is ideal for curious visitors, students, families, and anyone interested in behind‑the‑scenes heritage work. The venue is fully accessible; children must be supervised. No bookings required, just come along and explore.

About the Research & Community History Team:
Our Research & Community History Team support the preservation and promotion of the Georges River Council through the research and collection of local historical materials such as maps, photographs and newspapers to gain a deeper understanding of our history, culture, and community.

The team also coordinates Georges River Council’s Historical Markers Program which launched in 2018. The program recognises people and places of historical and cultural importance, as recommended by the local community. Each year Council will fund and install up to five new historical markers and invites the community to submit nominations.

Is there a historic person, or place in Georges River you would like to nominate?

Visit Georges River Council - Historical Markers for more information.

Nominations are open until Monday 18 May 2026.

About the Australian Heritage Festival:
The Australian Heritage Festival runs from Saturday 18 April – Monday 18 May. This year’s theme is Change, inviting communities across the country to reflect on how history has shaped us, and how we, in turn, continue to shape history.

Wednesday 13 May 2026.

 

Address  

Hurstville Library.
Corner of Dora Street and Queens Road, Hurstville.
 

Time  

9.30am – 4.30pm.
 

Ages

All ages.
 

Cost  

Free.
 

Bookings 

Places are limited, so bookings are essential. Book your spot using the button below.

Book Now 

More information 

• All materials and equipment will be provided. 

• ​For participants aged 10 years and under, parents and/or guardians of children must remain in the library for the duration of the program.  

• Bookings are not required but you can register to receive reminders. 

• The library does not endorse or promote any products which may be used in the workshop. 

Accessibility Information: 
Georges River Libraries is committed to providing inclusive library services and programs. Please email library@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au or note down your requirements or support needs in your event registration. 

Georges River Libraries offer a range of programs to support early literacy and foster community connection, please visit our library Programs and Events webpage.

For further information, please contact us on (02) 9330 6111 or email library@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.