The Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts is proud to be the home of the Tom Keneally Centre, which holds the research collection of world-renowned author Thomas Keneally, in addition to copies of his own works and some items from his private collection of photographs and memorabilia.
The Westfield Group, headed by Frank Lowy, generously funded the construction of the Tom Keneally Centre, while the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts has provided the space on Level 3, furnishings and staffing on an ongoing basis.
The Tom Keneally Centre’s look and feel reflects, as much as possible, the character of Tom’s original library.
It was officially opened on 18 August 2011 by Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir, AC, CVO, Governor of New South Wales in August 2011.
The Tom Keneally Centre is devoted to Australian literature and history, reflecting the synergy between the SMSA and Tom Keneally’s approach to writing and to life; open access to knowledge, continued learning and social change.