The Wollaston Library is home to a significant theological collection with deep roots in collaboration between the Anglican Diocese of Perth, the Uniting Church in Western Australia, and Murdoch University.
The origins of the contemporary collection date back to January 1994, when resources held individually at the Perth Diocesan Library (Anglican Diocese of Perth) and the Ada Purnell Library (Uniting Church WA) were combined and transferred to Murdoch University. This partnership created a broad, ecumenical collection designed to support theological education and research across Western Australia. The joint initiative represented a shared commitment by the Anglican and Uniting Churches to cooperation in theological education, ensuring the collection became a valued academic resource within Murdoch University’s Theology program for nearly three decades.
In 2024, following the discontinuation of Murdoch University’s theology curriculum, the Wollaston Theological College became the new home of this important collection. Under a shared agreement between the Anglican Diocese of Perth, Uniting Church WA, and Murdoch University, ownership of the theological collection was formally transferred to the Anglican Diocese of Perth. The relocation of the books, journals, and other materials to the College ensured the collection remains accessible as a unified and enduring resource for future generations of students, clergy, and researchers.
The Wollaston Library was formally opened and blessed by The Most Reverend Kay Goldsworthy, Archbishop of Perth, on 23 February 2025.
Today, the library houses over 35,000 physical items, encompassing a wide range of theological disciplines including Christian Leadership, Biblical Studies, Church History, Pastoral Care, Systematic Theology, Christian Spirituality, Ministry Practice, Missiology, and Philosophy. The collection continues to grow through ongoing acquisitions and donations, ensuring it remains a dynamic and relevant resource for contemporary theological scholarship and ministry formation.
A notable feature of the Library is the Peter Carnley Collection, comprising approximately 3,000 volumes from the personal library of The Most Reverend Dr Peter F. Carnley AC, former Archbishop of Perth. This special collection reflects Dr Carnley’s lifelong commitment to theological inquiry and his significant contribution to Anglican thought and leadership.
The library collection includes over 35,000 physical items, covering key theological disciplines such as Christian Leadership, Biblical Studies, Church History, Pastoral Care, Systematic Theology, Christian Spirituality, Ministry Practice, Missiology, and Philosophy. The collection continues to grow through new acquisitions and donations, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for contemporary theological scholarship and ministry training.
A significant addition to the library is the Peter Carnley Collection, the personal library of the former Archbishop of Perth, Dr Peter F Carnley, AC.
This collection comprises approximately 3,000 volumes, reflecting his extensive scholarship and contributions to Anglican theology.
By becoming a Friend of The Wollaston Library, you are investing in theological education, scholarship and community.
Join us in seeking understanding, every contribution supports students, clergy, and researchers in their academic and spiritual learning pursuits.
Donations support library operations and collection development, helping us grow and sustain our resources.
Donations can be made by when you visit the library, by invoice or by direct debit.
Volunteering at The Wollaston Library offers a fulfilling opportunity to explore theological resources that support the work of Wollaston Theological College, the Anglican Diocese of Perth, and the University of Divinity.
Located within the College, the library is a hub for learning, research, and connection for students, faculty, clergy, and members of the Anglican community.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist with a variety of tasks, from maintaining the collection to supporting activities that keep resources well organised and accessible to the community.
The Wollaston Library welcomes donations of books and other materials from individuals and organisations, with the understanding that once received, they become the property of the library.
Donated materials may not always be added to the collection. The library reserves the right to accept or decline donations and the right to dispose of unwanted donated material. All donations are assessed and evaluated for inclusion in our collection in accordance with our policies and guidelines. Items that are not selected for the collection may be offered for sale through the library’s second hand book sales or disposed of.
