Sometimes a good read can feel so elusive! That's why we have created Swift Reads, a collection of popular and recommended reads that will move quickly from one keen borrower to the next.
These titles have multiple copies and can be loaned for three weeks.
Named after our special and rare Swift parrot, we hope these books will fly off the shelves and into people’s hearts.
Hobsons Bay Libraries are dedicated to the collection and preservation of the history of Hobsons Bay and its peoples. Areas of Heritage focus are:
- Local History
- Maritime
- First Nation
- Australiana
- Military
- Rare books
- Council reports (the Cities of Altona, Williamstown and of Hobsons Bay)
Heritage collections are primarily located at the Williamstown branch where specialised staff are also available to assist with your research needs. Contact Hobsons Bay Libraries to make an appointment with a member of the Heritage team.
Have a listen to this podcast
episode made in our Create a Podcast - Pirates on Hobsons Bay program during Hobsons Bay Heritage in April/May 2025!
Key titles on Hobsons Bay's history
- The History of Williamstown
by William H. Elsum
Covers 1834-1934.
Written by a former journalist with the Williamstown Chronicle.
- Port of many prows
by Wilson P. Evans
Contains a number of details important to local history and family history, including information relating to street name changes in Williamstown.
- Altona: a Long View
by Susan Priestley
The first authoritive history on Altona.
- Deeds Not Words
by Wilson P. Evans
Documents the significance of Williamstown in the formation of the Australian Navy
- Buried by the Sea: A History of Williamstown Cemetery
by Andrew Lemon
A history of the Williamstown cemetery from its original location at Gellibrand Point to its current location at Champion Road.
- Altona, Laverton & Newport Heritage Study
Identifies and evaluates buildings of historical or architectural significance in the Altona, Laverton and Newport areas.
- City of Williamstown Conservation Study
Identifies and evaluates buildings of historical or architectural significance in Williamstown area. Profiles can include name of original grantee, original builders, year built and prior owners.
Paton Cabinet
Located in the heritage room of Williamstown Library is a large collection of records related to family and local history research that includes newspapers, voter rolls, rate books and more.
Local newspapers held on CD-ROM and microfilm include:
- Altona Star Newspaper 1966-1977 (3CD-ROM set)
- Newport Times 1888-1941 (microfilm)
- Williamstown Advertiser 1875-1993 (microfilm)
- Williamstown Chronicle 1856-1964 (microfilm)
- Williamstown Independent 1859-1861
You can also search for archived newspapers online via Trove, from the National Library of Australia.
Find help with Heritage Research