UC childcare kids thrilled by Lucy Goosey illustrator 

Graham Robinson

20 August 2008: University of Canberra Wiradjuri childcare centre received a special visit this week.

As part of the University’s 40th Anniversary celebrations, the Lu Rees Archives of Australian Children’s Literature has been opened to the public.

This collection includes rare pieces of Australia’s children’s book history including a new donation from leading children’s author Margaret Wild and artwork by her collaborator Ann James.

The pair’s latest work Lucy Goosey was named an ‘honour book’ in this year’s Children’s Book Council Awards. Original artwork from the book will be on display.
As part of the celebrations, the Wiradjuri childcare centre received a special visit from Ann James who enthralled the children with drawings of characters from her latest work Lucy Goosey. 

Ann James illustrator of Lucy Goosey with children from the Wiradjuri childcare centre

The Lu Rees exhibition includes books representing each period of the University’s 40-year history.

Ms Wild’s donation includes 68 published works, related notes, manuscripts and drafts, awards and some original artwork.

The Lu Rees Archives has been housed at the University of Canberra since 1980. It includes donations under the Commonwealth Cultural Gifts Program worth in excess of $1 million. The collection is managed by University of Canberra Emeritus Professor Belle Alderman AM – Australia’s first professor of children’s literature.

“This exhibition is a chance to see a unique collection from Australia’s literary history,” Professor Alderman said. “It’s a rare glimpse into how these wonderful children’s books come to life.

“The collection is a great resource for the public and for students and researchers of creative writing, education and design,” Professor Alderman added.

The collection contains more than 19,000 books including 2400 overseas editions and 350 research files on individual authors, illustrators, editors, publishers and critics.