Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2025)

A quick look at six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads
New Books

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2025)

A quick look at six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads
New Books

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2025)

A quick look at six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads
New Books

Nature and the Environment

Daylight Robbery: Singapore’s Shifting Time Zones

In 1982, Singapore adjusted its time zone to follow Malaysia’s national synchronisation. This was not the only instance that Singapore changes time zone.

TIME DID NOT STAND STILL
Daylight Robbery
Daylight Robbery

Nature and the Environment

Daylight Robbery: Singapore’s Shifting Time Zones

In 1982, Singapore adjusted its time zone to follow Malaysia’s national synchronisation. This was not the only instance that Singapore changes time zone.

TIME DID NOT STAND STILL
Daylight Robbery

Nature and the Environment

Daylight Robbery: Singapore’s Shifting Time Zones

In 1982, Singapore adjusted its time zone to follow Malaysia’s national synchronisation. This was not the only instance that Singapore changes time zone.

TIME DID NOT STAND STILL

More Places and Buildings

A Mansion in Serangoon: Whampoa House-Bendemeer

In the 19th century, Whampoa’s legendary home was a nexus of wealth, power and extravagant entertainment.

The palatial home of two Chinese towkays
Whampoa House-Bendemeer

More Places and Buildings

A Mansion in Serangoon: Whampoa House-Bendemeer

In the 19th century, Whampoa’s legendary home was a nexus of wealth, power and extravagant entertainment.

The palatial home of two Chinese towkays
Whampoa House-Bendemeer

More Places and Buildings

A Mansion in Serangoon: Whampoa House-Bendemeer

In the 19th century, Whampoa’s legendary home was a nexus of wealth, power and extravagant entertainment.

The palatial home of two Chinese towkays
Whampoa House-Bendemeer

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” and Other Love Songs

National anthems often start off as songs for different purposes. Singapore’s “Majulah Singapura” is no different.

A LOVE SONG FOR SINGAPORE
“Majulah Singapura”
“Majulah Singapura”

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” and Other Love Songs

National anthems often start off as songs for different purposes. Singapore’s “Majulah Singapura” is no different.

A LOVE SONG FOR SINGAPORE
“Majulah Singapura”

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” and Other Love Songs

National anthems often start off as songs for different purposes. Singapore’s “Majulah Singapura” is no different.

A LOVE SONG FOR SINGAPORE

People

The Life and Times of Giovanni Gaggino

The remarkable story of an Italian merchant who once owned Pulau Bukom and authored an Italian-Malay dictionary in colonial Singapore.

A MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
From Liguria to the Lion City

People

The Life and Times of Giovanni Gaggino

The remarkable story of an Italian merchant who once owned Pulau Bukom and authored an Italian-Malay dictionary in colonial Singapore.

A MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
From Liguria to the Lion City

People

The Life and Times of Giovanni Gaggino

The remarkable story of an Italian merchant who once owned Pulau Bukom and authored an Italian-Malay dictionary in colonial Singapore.

A MAN OF MANY INTERESTS
From Liguria to the Lion City

Inspired by History

Hidden History Brought to Life in a Game

From burial grounds to secret societies, HiddenSG weaves historical materials into immersive adventures across the island.

NOT SO HIDDEN AFTER ALL
Hidden History in a Game
Hidden History in a Game

Inspired by History

Hidden History Brought to Life in a Game

From burial grounds to secret societies, HiddenSG weaves historical materials into immersive adventures across the island.

NOT SO HIDDEN AFTER ALL
Hidden History in a Game

Inspired by History

Hidden History Brought to Life in a Game

From burial grounds to secret societies, HiddenSG weaves historical materials into immersive adventures across the island.

NOT SO HIDDEN AFTER ALL

People

Dutch Burghers in British Malaya

A murder mystery sheds light on the little-known story of the Ceylonese pioneers from the Dutch Burgher community in British Malaya.

EURASIAN OR BURGHER
Dutch Burghers

People

Dutch Burghers in British Malaya

A murder mystery sheds light on the little-known story of the Ceylonese pioneers from the Dutch Burgher community in British Malaya.

EURASIAN OR BURGHER
Dutch Burghers

People

Dutch Burghers in British Malaya

A murder mystery sheds light on the little-known story of the Ceylonese pioneers from the Dutch Burgher community in British Malaya.

EURASIAN OR BURGHER
Dutch Burghers

Inspired by History

One Man’s Mission to Uncover Singapore’s Past

From leading heritage walks to educating on social media platforms, Ho Yong Min is reintroducing the history of Singapore’s urban landscape.

THE URBANIST SINGAPORE
The Urban Heritage Explorer
The Urban Heritage Explorer

Inspired by History

One Man’s Mission to Uncover Singapore’s Past

From leading heritage walks to educating on social media platforms, Ho Yong Min is reintroducing the history of Singapore’s urban landscape.

THE URBANIST SINGAPORE
The Urban Heritage Explorer

Inspired by History

One Man’s Mission to Uncover Singapore’s Past

From leading heritage walks to educating on social media platforms, Ho Yong Min is reintroducing the history of Singapore’s urban landscape.

THE URBANIST SINGAPORE

podcast

The Making of "Majulah Singapura" as We Know It

Emeritus Professor Bernard Tan plays the different versions of "Majulah Singapura" on his piano.

listen to the episode
Making of

podcast

The Making of "Majulah Singapura" as We Know It

Emeritus Professor Bernard Tan plays the different versions of "Majulah Singapura" on his piano.

listen to the episode
Making of

podcast

The Making of "Majulah Singapura" as We Know It

Emeritus Professor Bernard Tan plays the different versions of "Majulah Singapura" on his piano.

listen to the episode
Making of

Print

Bacalah Singapura: Reading Habits in Singapore (1960s–1990s)

Reading surveys in the nation-building years reveal what Singaporeans read and why it mattered.

READING IS FOR ALL
Image alt text
Image alt text

Print

Bacalah Singapura: Reading Habits in Singapore (1960s–1990s)

Reading surveys in the nation-building years reveal what Singaporeans read and why it mattered.

READING IS FOR ALL
Image alt text

Print

Bacalah Singapura: Reading Habits in Singapore (1960s–1990s)

Reading surveys in the nation-building years reveal what Singaporeans read and why it mattered.

READING IS FOR ALL

Inspired by History

How a 500-Year-Old Map Became Fashion

When Singapore designer Afton Chen chanced upon the Mao Kun Map, she decided to embark on a new fashion collection.

FROM LIBRARY TO BOUTIQUE
Ancient Maps to Modern Designs

Inspired by History

How a 500-Year-Old Map Became Fashion

When Singapore designer Afton Chen chanced upon the Mao Kun Map, she decided to embark on a new fashion collection.

FROM LIBRARY TO BOUTIQUE
Ancient Maps to Modern Designs

Inspired by History

How a 500-Year-Old Map Became Fashion

When Singapore designer Afton Chen chanced upon the Mao Kun Map, she decided to embark on a new fashion collection.

FROM LIBRARY TO BOUTIQUE
Ancient Maps to Modern Designs

Culture

SYO Brings Singapore Composers into the Limelight

The Singapore Youth Orchestra’s practice of commissioning and performing the works of local composers was instrumental in the growth of Singapore music.

Making Music
Singapore Youth Orchestra
Singapore Youth Orchestra

Culture

SYO Brings Singapore Composers into the Limelight

The Singapore Youth Orchestra’s practice of commissioning and performing the works of local composers was instrumental in the growth of Singapore music.

Making Music
Singapore Youth Orchestra

Culture

SYO Brings Singapore Composers into the Limelight

The Singapore Youth Orchestra’s practice of commissioning and performing the works of local composers was instrumental in the growth of Singapore music.

Making Music

Inspired by History

Crafting Stories from History

From research to reimagination, the library and archives have shaped Felix Cheong’s creative processes.

DIGGING IN THE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES
Crafting Stories from History

Inspired by History

Crafting Stories from History

From research to reimagination, the library and archives have shaped Felix Cheong’s creative processes.

DIGGING IN THE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES
Crafting Stories from History

Inspired by History

Crafting Stories from History

From research to reimagination, the library and archives have shaped Felix Cheong’s creative processes.

DIGGING IN THE LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES
Crafting Stories from History

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” Finally Breached the Gap

In a BiblioAsia+ podcast episode, music director Julian Wong reveals little-known details about the composer of Singapore’s national anthem.

MORE THAN MR MARI KITA
Majulah Singapura
Majulah Singapura

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” Finally Breached the Gap

In a BiblioAsia+ podcast episode, music director Julian Wong reveals little-known details about the composer of Singapore’s national anthem.

MORE THAN MR MARI KITA
Majulah Singapura

National Symbols

“Majulah Singapura” Finally Breached the Gap

In a BiblioAsia+ podcast episode, music director Julian Wong reveals little-known details about the composer of Singapore’s national anthem.

MORE THAN MR MARI KITA

People

Excavating the Past

Writing a memoir involves personal experiences, digging deep into our memories and the emphasis on factual information.

Challenges of Memoir Writing
Excavating the Past

People

Excavating the Past

Writing a memoir involves personal experiences, digging deep into our memories and the emphasis on factual information.

Challenges of Memoir Writing
Excavating the Past

People

Excavating the Past

Writing a memoir involves personal experiences, digging deep into our memories and the emphasis on factual information.

Challenges of Memoir Writing
Excavating the Past

Op-ed

The Libraries and Archives of Tomorrow

Ng Cher Pong, CEO of the National Library Board, shares his thoughts and insights on how libraries and archives can stay relevant in today’s world.

THE FUTURE OF LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES
Libraries & Archives Tomorrow
Libraries & Archives Tomorrow

Op-ed

The Libraries and Archives of Tomorrow

Ng Cher Pong, CEO of the National Library Board, shares his thoughts and insights on how libraries and archives can stay relevant in today’s world.

THE FUTURE OF LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES
Libraries & Archives Tomorrow

Op-ed

The Libraries and Archives of Tomorrow

Ng Cher Pong, CEO of the National Library Board, shares his thoughts and insights on how libraries and archives can stay relevant in today’s world.

THE FUTURE OF LIBRARIES AND ARCHIVES

People

The House of Cheang

The Cheangs were once one of Singapore’s most illustrious Baba-Nonya families.

Uncover their stories
The House of Cheang

People

The House of Cheang

The Cheangs were once one of Singapore’s most illustrious Baba-Nonya families.

Uncover their stories
The House of Cheang

People

The House of Cheang

The Cheangs were once one of Singapore’s most illustrious Baba-Nonya families.

Uncover their stories
The House of Cheang

Film and Photography

Singapore Through the Lens of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler

The photographs of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler of a bygone Singapore form part of the National Archives of Singapore’s 5.5-million strong collection.

A BLAST FROM THE PAST
P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler
P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler

Film and Photography

Singapore Through the Lens of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler

The photographs of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler of a bygone Singapore form part of the National Archives of Singapore’s 5.5-million strong collection.

A BLAST FROM THE PAST
P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler

Film and Photography

Singapore Through the Lens of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler

The photographs of P.S. Teo and Ronni Pinsler of a bygone Singapore form part of the National Archives of Singapore’s 5.5-million strong collection.

A BLAST FROM THE PAST

Film and Photography

A Peek at the Audio-Visual Archives

The National Archives of Singapore has been safeguarding Singapore’s rich audiovisual legacy for the last 30 years.

PRESERVING OUR AUDIOVISUAL HERITAGE
Audio-Visual Archives

Film and Photography

A Peek at the Audio-Visual Archives

The National Archives of Singapore has been safeguarding Singapore’s rich audiovisual legacy for the last 30 years.

PRESERVING OUR AUDIOVISUAL HERITAGE
Audio-Visual Archives

Film and Photography

A Peek at the Audio-Visual Archives

The National Archives of Singapore has been safeguarding Singapore’s rich audiovisual legacy for the last 30 years.

PRESERVING OUR AUDIOVISUAL HERITAGE
Audio-Visual Archives

People

The Many Facets of Liu Kang

Liu Kang’s many roles as photographer, artist, educator and critic helped paint a new narrative for Singapore’s art history.

A MULTI-TALENTED PIONEER ARTIST
The Many Facets of Liu Kang
The Many Facets of Liu Kang

People

The Many Facets of Liu Kang

Liu Kang’s many roles as photographer, artist, educator and critic helped paint a new narrative for Singapore’s art history.

A MULTI-TALENTED PIONEER ARTIST
The Many Facets of Liu Kang

People

The Many Facets of Liu Kang

Liu Kang’s many roles as photographer, artist, educator and critic helped paint a new narrative for Singapore’s art history.

A MULTI-TALENTED PIONEER ARTIST

Print

Reading With Molly Today

According to a study, the mobile library service continues to be relevant as it helps children get more access to books.

Bringing books to children
Reading With Molly Today

Print

Reading With Molly Today

According to a study, the mobile library service continues to be relevant as it helps children get more access to books.

Bringing books to children
Reading With Molly Today

Print

Reading With Molly Today

According to a study, the mobile library service continues to be relevant as it helps children get more access to books.

Bringing books to children
Reading With Molly Today

Governance

Legal Deposit Legislation in Singapore

The legal deposit function in Singapore can be traced back to an 1835 law enacted in India to control and regulate the flow of information

COLLECTING MATERIALS FOR POSTERITY
Legal Deposit Legislation
Legal Deposit Legislation

Governance

Legal Deposit Legislation in Singapore

The legal deposit function in Singapore can be traced back to an 1835 law enacted in India to control and regulate the flow of information

COLLECTING MATERIALS FOR POSTERITY
Legal Deposit Legislation

Governance

Legal Deposit Legislation in Singapore

The legal deposit function in Singapore can be traced back to an 1835 law enacted in India to control and regulate the flow of information

COLLECTING MATERIALS FOR POSTERITY

Podcast

First Spy Chief of Independent Singapore

Legal academic Simon Tay tells us about how his Penang-born father came to play a giant role serving a newly independent Singapore.

Listen to the episode
First Spy Chief of Singapore

Podcast

First Spy Chief of Independent Singapore

Legal academic Simon Tay tells us about how his Penang-born father came to play a giant role serving a newly independent Singapore.

Listen to the episode
First Spy Chief of Singapore

Podcast

First Spy Chief of Independent Singapore

Legal academic Simon Tay tells us about how his Penang-born father came to play a giant role serving a newly independent Singapore.

Listen to the episode
First Spy Chief of Singapore

History

Writing the NLB Story

Established in 1995, the National Library Board was conceived as one of many levers to transform Singapore’s economy and culture.

A NEW CHAPTER
Writing the NLB Story
Writing the NLB Story

History

Writing the NLB Story

Established in 1995, the National Library Board was conceived as one of many levers to transform Singapore’s economy and culture.

A NEW CHAPTER
Writing the NLB Story

History

Writing the NLB Story

Established in 1995, the National Library Board was conceived as one of many levers to transform Singapore’s economy and culture.

A NEW CHAPTER

Women

Hedwig Anuar: First Lady of the National Library

Hedwig Anuar was not only known for being the director of the National Library, she was also an activist and advocate for women’s rights.

LIBRARIAN. ACTIVIST. ADVOCATE
Hedwig Anuar: First Lady

Women

Hedwig Anuar: First Lady of the National Library

Hedwig Anuar was not only known for being the director of the National Library, she was also an activist and advocate for women’s rights.

LIBRARIAN. ACTIVIST. ADVOCATE
Hedwig Anuar: First Lady

Women

Hedwig Anuar: First Lady of the National Library

Hedwig Anuar was not only known for being the director of the National Library, she was also an activist and advocate for women’s rights.

LIBRARIAN. ACTIVIST. ADVOCATE
Hedwig Anuar: First Lady

Collections

The Singapore and Southeast Asia Collection

An invaluable resource for researchers of Singapore and the region.

GEMS OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY
Singapore and SEA Collection
Singapore and SEA Collection

Collections

The Singapore and Southeast Asia Collection

An invaluable resource for researchers of Singapore and the region.

GEMS OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY
Singapore and SEA Collection

Collections

The Singapore and Southeast Asia Collection

An invaluable resource for researchers of Singapore and the region.

GEMS OF THE NATIONAL LIBRARY

People

Kung Tian Cheng, First Clerk of Raffles Library

In the late 19th century, Kung Tian Cheng helped compile a complete catalogue of the Raffles Library, before going to China to work for President Yuan Shikai.

LIBRARIAN, WRITER, EDITOR
Kung Tian Cheng

People

Kung Tian Cheng, First Clerk of Raffles Library

In the late 19th century, Kung Tian Cheng helped compile a complete catalogue of the Raffles Library, before going to China to work for President Yuan Shikai.

LIBRARIAN, WRITER, EDITOR
Kung Tian Cheng

People

Kung Tian Cheng, First Clerk of Raffles Library

In the late 19th century, Kung Tian Cheng helped compile a complete catalogue of the Raffles Library, before going to China to work for President Yuan Shikai.

LIBRARIAN, WRITER, EDITOR
Kung Tian Cheng

Governance

A Recent History of Legal Deposit in Singapore

The scope of legal deposit in Singapore expanded to digital materials and web archiving in 2018.

PRESERVING PUBLISHED HERITAGE
Legal Deposit
Legal Deposit

Governance

A Recent History of Legal Deposit in Singapore

The scope of legal deposit in Singapore expanded to digital materials and web archiving in 2018.

PRESERVING PUBLISHED HERITAGE
Legal Deposit

Governance

A Recent History of Legal Deposit in Singapore

The scope of legal deposit in Singapore expanded to digital materials and web archiving in 2018.

PRESERVING PUBLISHED HERITAGE

Podcast

Hawker Culture in Singapore

Researcher Ryan Kueh explains why hawkers in Singapore sell their food in fixed stalls in hawker centres, rather than on streets, like in other countries.

Listen to the episode
Hawker Culture in Singapore

Podcast

Hawker Culture in Singapore

Researcher Ryan Kueh explains why hawkers in Singapore sell their food in fixed stalls in hawker centres, rather than on streets, like in other countries.

Listen to the episode
Hawker Culture in Singapore

Podcast

Hawker Culture in Singapore

Researcher Ryan Kueh explains why hawkers in Singapore sell their food in fixed stalls in hawker centres, rather than on streets, like in other countries.

Listen to the episode
Hawker Culture in Singapore

Archaeology

Pioneering Archaeological Research

Research into Malaya’s prehistory took off in the 1930s under the leadership of the Raffles Library and Museum.

EXCAVATING GUAR KEPAH
Image alt text
Image alt text

Archaeology

Pioneering Archaeological Research

Research into Malaya’s prehistory took off in the 1930s under the leadership of the Raffles Library and Museum.

EXCAVATING GUAR KEPAH
Image alt text

Archaeology

Pioneering Archaeological Research

Research into Malaya’s prehistory took off in the 1930s under the leadership of the Raffles Library and Museum.

EXCAVATING GUAR KEPAH

Local Icons

A Short History of the National Library

The National Library Singapore began life in 1837 with a modest collection of 392 publications belonging to the Singapore Free School.

COLLECTING SCATTERED LITERATURE
Story of the National Library

Local Icons

A Short History of the National Library

The National Library Singapore began life in 1837 with a modest collection of 392 publications belonging to the Singapore Free School.

COLLECTING SCATTERED LITERATURE
Story of the National Library

Local Icons

A Short History of the National Library

The National Library Singapore began life in 1837 with a modest collection of 392 publications belonging to the Singapore Free School.

COLLECTING SCATTERED LITERATURE
Story of the National Library

Local Icons

Books on Wheels: Singapore's Mobile Libraries

Between the 1960s and 1980s, libraries-on-wheels travelled around Singapore bringing books to residents in rural and suburban areas.

THE TRAVELLING LIBRARIES
Singapore's Mobile Libraries
Singapore's Mobile Libraries

Local Icons

Books on Wheels: Singapore's Mobile Libraries

Between the 1960s and 1980s, libraries-on-wheels travelled around Singapore bringing books to residents in rural and suburban areas.

THE TRAVELLING LIBRARIES
Singapore's Mobile Libraries

Local Icons

Books on Wheels: Singapore's Mobile Libraries

Between the 1960s and 1980s, libraries-on-wheels travelled around Singapore bringing books to residents in rural and suburban areas.

THE TRAVELLING LIBRARIES

Places and Buildings

Pages of Progress: The Toa Payoh Public Library

Over the last five decades, the library has developed to keep pace with the changing needs of the residents of Toa Payoh.

THE SECOND BRANCH LIBRARY
The Toa Payoh Public Library

Places and Buildings

Pages of Progress: The Toa Payoh Public Library

Over the last five decades, the library has developed to keep pace with the changing needs of the residents of Toa Payoh.

THE SECOND BRANCH LIBRARY
The Toa Payoh Public Library

Places and Buildings

Pages of Progress: The Toa Payoh Public Library

Over the last five decades, the library has developed to keep pace with the changing needs of the residents of Toa Payoh.

THE SECOND BRANCH LIBRARY
The Toa Payoh Public Library

Podcast

Badang the Strongman

Many people know of Badang the strongman. Independent scholar William Gibson tells us the tale of Badang is much more complicated than is generally known.

Listen to the episode
Badang keramat singapore stone
Badang keramat singapore stone

Podcast

Badang the Strongman

Many people know of Badang the strongman. Independent scholar William Gibson tells us the tale of Badang is much more complicated than is generally known.

Listen to the episode
Badang keramat singapore stone

Podcast

Badang the Strongman

Many people know of Badang the strongman. Independent scholar William Gibson tells us the tale of Badang is much more complicated than is generally known.

Listen to the episode

People

My Mother, Hedwig Anuar

The daughter of Hedwig Anuar reveals a side to the former director of the National Library that not many people know.

A TRIBUTE TO A MOTHER
My Mother Hedwig Anuar

People

My Mother, Hedwig Anuar

The daughter of Hedwig Anuar reveals a side to the former director of the National Library that not many people know.

A TRIBUTE TO A MOTHER
My Mother Hedwig Anuar

People

My Mother, Hedwig Anuar

The daughter of Hedwig Anuar reveals a side to the former director of the National Library that not many people know.

A TRIBUTE TO A MOTHER
My Mother Hedwig Anuar

Podcast

Peng Tsu Ying: Singapore's Pioneering Deaf Educator

Librarian Nathaniel Chew tells us about Peng's advocacy, his own journey learning the Singapore Sign Language and the different ways it has evolved.

Listen to the Episode
Pioneering Deaf Educator
Pioneering Deaf Educator

Podcast

Peng Tsu Ying: Singapore's Pioneering Deaf Educator

Librarian Nathaniel Chew tells us about Peng's advocacy, his own journey learning the Singapore Sign Language and the different ways it has evolved.

Listen to the Episode
Pioneering Deaf Educator

Podcast

Peng Tsu Ying: Singapore's Pioneering Deaf Educator

Librarian Nathaniel Chew tells us about Peng's advocacy, his own journey learning the Singapore Sign Language and the different ways it has evolved.

Listen to the Episode

History

In Search of Silvestr

Sparked by a box of old family documents, Jan Beránek embarked on an eight-year quest that brought him from a small Czech village to modern Singapore.

Finding Family
In Search of Silvestr

History

In Search of Silvestr

Sparked by a box of old family documents, Jan Beránek embarked on an eight-year quest that brought him from a small Czech village to modern Singapore.

Finding Family
In Search of Silvestr

History

In Search of Silvestr

Sparked by a box of old family documents, Jan Beránek embarked on an eight-year quest that brought him from a small Czech village to modern Singapore.

Finding Family
In Search of Silvestr

Places and Buildings

Remembering the Part-Time Libraries

Part-time branch libraries served residents living in suburban Singapore before fulltime public libraries were built.

BRINGING BOOKS TO THE PEOPLE
Part-Time Libraries
Part-Time Libraries

Places and Buildings

Remembering the Part-Time Libraries

Part-time branch libraries served residents living in suburban Singapore before fulltime public libraries were built.

BRINGING BOOKS TO THE PEOPLE
Part-Time Libraries

Places and Buildings

Remembering the Part-Time Libraries

Part-time branch libraries served residents living in suburban Singapore before fulltime public libraries were built.

BRINGING BOOKS TO THE PEOPLE

Podcast

The Trip That Led to the 1953 Landmark Art Exhibition

Gretchen Liu, the daughter-in-law of Liu Kang, tells us about the mysterious Bali trip undertaken by four Singapore pioneering artists in 1952.

Listen to the episode
Bali Trip 1952

Podcast

The Trip That Led to the 1953 Landmark Art Exhibition

Gretchen Liu, the daughter-in-law of Liu Kang, tells us about the mysterious Bali trip undertaken by four Singapore pioneering artists in 1952.

Listen to the episode
Bali Trip 1952

Podcast

The Trip That Led to the 1953 Landmark Art Exhibition

Gretchen Liu, the daughter-in-law of Liu Kang, tells us about the mysterious Bali trip undertaken by four Singapore pioneering artists in 1952.

Listen to the episode
Bali Trip 1952

Places and Buildings

Lady in Red: The Former National Library

Beyond being a mere repository of books, the library on Stamford Road was a place for acquiring knowledge, making memories and creating friendships.

A BELOVED ICON
Former National Library
Former National Library

Places and Buildings

Lady in Red: The Former National Library

Beyond being a mere repository of books, the library on Stamford Road was a place for acquiring knowledge, making memories and creating friendships.

A BELOVED ICON
Former National Library

Places and Buildings

Lady in Red: The Former National Library

Beyond being a mere repository of books, the library on Stamford Road was a place for acquiring knowledge, making memories and creating friendships.

A BELOVED ICON

Culture

Historical Photos of Chin Woo’s Golden Lions

The Singapore Chin Woo (Athletic) Association’s lion dance troupe opens their archives for a peek into the rich history of their Golden Lions.

Golden Lions in Pictures
Golden Lions in Singapore

Culture

Historical Photos of Chin Woo’s Golden Lions

The Singapore Chin Woo (Athletic) Association’s lion dance troupe opens their archives for a peek into the rich history of their Golden Lions.

Golden Lions in Pictures
Golden Lions in Singapore

Culture

Historical Photos of Chin Woo’s Golden Lions

The Singapore Chin Woo (Athletic) Association’s lion dance troupe opens their archives for a peek into the rich history of their Golden Lions.

Golden Lions in Pictures
Golden Lions in Singapore

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Apr 2025)

Introducing six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads
New Books
New Books

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Apr 2025)

Introducing six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads
New Books

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Apr 2025)

Introducing six new books available in the National Library's collection.

New Reads

Worship

Mazu Worship in Singapore

Mazu devotion, which first came to Singapore in 1810, lives on in its traditions and processions.

EXCURSION OF PEACE
Mazu Worship

Worship

Mazu Worship in Singapore

Mazu devotion, which first came to Singapore in 1810, lives on in its traditions and processions.

EXCURSION OF PEACE
Mazu Worship

Worship

Mazu Worship in Singapore

Mazu devotion, which first came to Singapore in 1810, lives on in its traditions and processions.

EXCURSION OF PEACE
Mazu Worship

Nature and the Environment

The Floods of 1954

The severe floods of 1954 spurred significant infrastructure improvements and left a lasting impact on Singapore’s flood preparedness measures.

IT’S RAINING CATS AND DOGS
Floods of 1954
Floods of 1954

Nature and the Environment

The Floods of 1954

The severe floods of 1954 spurred significant infrastructure improvements and left a lasting impact on Singapore’s flood preparedness measures.

IT’S RAINING CATS AND DOGS
Floods of 1954

Nature and the Environment

The Floods of 1954

The severe floods of 1954 spurred significant infrastructure improvements and left a lasting impact on Singapore’s flood preparedness measures.

IT’S RAINING CATS AND DOGS

Adventure and Travel

The Construction of Bali’s Mystique

In 1953, four artists held an art exhibition arising from their travels to Bali in 1952. Their trip was inspired by an image of the island as an untouched Eden.

AN ISLAND PARADISE
Bali’s Mystique

Adventure and Travel

The Construction of Bali’s Mystique

In 1953, four artists held an art exhibition arising from their travels to Bali in 1952. Their trip was inspired by an image of the island as an untouched Eden.

AN ISLAND PARADISE
Bali’s Mystique

Adventure and Travel

The Construction of Bali’s Mystique

In 1953, four artists held an art exhibition arising from their travels to Bali in 1952. Their trip was inspired by an image of the island as an untouched Eden.

AN ISLAND PARADISE
Bali’s Mystique

BiblioAsia Reels

Newly Discovered Photos from Liu Kang’s 1952 Bali Trip

Gretchen Liu sheds light on the discovery of more than 1,000 photos and negatives taken by her father-in-law Liu Kang during his 1952 Bali trip.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Liu Kang's 1952 Bali trip
Liu Kang's 1952 Bali trip

BiblioAsia Reels

Newly Discovered Photos from Liu Kang’s 1952 Bali Trip

Gretchen Liu sheds light on the discovery of more than 1,000 photos and negatives taken by her father-in-law Liu Kang during his 1952 Bali trip.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Liu Kang's 1952 Bali trip

BiblioAsia Reels

Newly Discovered Photos from Liu Kang’s 1952 Bali Trip

Gretchen Liu sheds light on the discovery of more than 1,000 photos and negatives taken by her father-in-law Liu Kang during his 1952 Bali trip.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Photography

Forgotten Photographs of the 1952 Trip to Bali

A treasure trove of negatives sheds new light on a trip that led to an exhibition now regarded as a milestone in the history of Singapore art.

Through the lens of Liu Kang
Forgotten Photographs Bali

Photography

Forgotten Photographs of the 1952 Trip to Bali

A treasure trove of negatives sheds new light on a trip that led to an exhibition now regarded as a milestone in the history of Singapore art.

Through the lens of Liu Kang
Forgotten Photographs Bali

Photography

Forgotten Photographs of the 1952 Trip to Bali

A treasure trove of negatives sheds new light on a trip that led to an exhibition now regarded as a milestone in the history of Singapore art.

Through the lens of Liu Kang
Forgotten Photographs Bali

Art

A Bridge Between East and West

Liu Kang’s works show the influence of Western artists such as Cézanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh and Matisse, as well as the tradition of Chinese ink painting.

Straddling East and West
Image alt text
Image alt text

Art

A Bridge Between East and West

Liu Kang’s works show the influence of Western artists such as Cézanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh and Matisse, as well as the tradition of Chinese ink painting.

Straddling East and West
Image alt text

Art

A Bridge Between East and West

Liu Kang’s works show the influence of Western artists such as Cézanne, Gauguin, Van Gogh and Matisse, as well as the tradition of Chinese ink painting.

Straddling East and West

Podcast

The Life and Legacy of Zubir Said

Zubir Said gave Singapore its national anthem, “Majulah Singapura”, but he was more than Mr Mari Kita.

Listen to the episode
Zubir Said

Podcast

The Life and Legacy of Zubir Said

Zubir Said gave Singapore its national anthem, “Majulah Singapura”, but he was more than Mr Mari Kita.

Listen to the episode
Zubir Said

Podcast

The Life and Legacy of Zubir Said

Zubir Said gave Singapore its national anthem, “Majulah Singapura”, but he was more than Mr Mari Kita.

Listen to the episode
Zubir Said

Education

Signs of Progress: Deaf Education in Singapore

The first school for the deaf in Singapore was established in 1954, paving the way for deaf education and the development of Singapore Sign Language.

LEARNING TO SIGN
deaf education
deaf education

Education

Signs of Progress: Deaf Education in Singapore

The first school for the deaf in Singapore was established in 1954, paving the way for deaf education and the development of Singapore Sign Language.

LEARNING TO SIGN
deaf education

Education

Signs of Progress: Deaf Education in Singapore

The first school for the deaf in Singapore was established in 1954, paving the way for deaf education and the development of Singapore Sign Language.

LEARNING TO SIGN

Culture

Rites of Rehabilitation: The Social Work of the Zhenkongjiao

With its sometime unconventional treatments, the Zhenkongjiao worked together with local authorities to remove the scourge of opium addiction in Singapore.

A healing touch
Zhenkongjiao

Culture

Rites of Rehabilitation: The Social Work of the Zhenkongjiao

With its sometime unconventional treatments, the Zhenkongjiao worked together with local authorities to remove the scourge of opium addiction in Singapore.

A healing touch
Zhenkongjiao

Culture

Rites of Rehabilitation: The Social Work of the Zhenkongjiao

With its sometime unconventional treatments, the Zhenkongjiao worked together with local authorities to remove the scourge of opium addiction in Singapore.

A healing touch
Zhenkongjiao

BiblioAsia Reels

Early Malay Comics

Early Malay cartoons in local newspapers in the 1930s paved the way for Malay comic books published in the 1950s.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Malay Comics
Malay Comics

BiblioAsia Reels

Early Malay Comics

Early Malay cartoons in local newspapers in the 1930s paved the way for Malay comic books published in the 1950s.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Malay Comics

BiblioAsia Reels

Early Malay Comics

Early Malay cartoons in local newspapers in the 1930s paved the way for Malay comic books published in the 1950s.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Art

The Liu Kang Collection: A Portrait of an Artist

The Liu Kang Collection at the National Library Singapore looks at the creative process of one of Singapore’s most celebrated artists.

Explore the collection
Liu Kang

Art

The Liu Kang Collection: A Portrait of an Artist

The Liu Kang Collection at the National Library Singapore looks at the creative process of one of Singapore’s most celebrated artists.

Explore the collection
Liu Kang

Art

The Liu Kang Collection: A Portrait of an Artist

The Liu Kang Collection at the National Library Singapore looks at the creative process of one of Singapore’s most celebrated artists.

Explore the collection
Liu Kang

Music

The Search for Home, Truly (and Other National Day Songs)

The effort to find songs that express a national identity goes back to the 1970s.

There'll always be Singapore
Sing Singapore
Sing Singapore

Music

The Search for Home, Truly (and Other National Day Songs)

The effort to find songs that express a national identity goes back to the 1970s.

There'll always be Singapore
Sing Singapore

Music

The Search for Home, Truly (and Other National Day Songs)

The effort to find songs that express a national identity goes back to the 1970s.

There'll always be Singapore

Places and Buildings

Karikal Mahal: Stories Reimagined and Retold

History, research and compelling storytelling come together to bring the story of Karikal Mahal to life.

Forgotten stories brought to life
Karikal Mahal

Places and Buildings

Karikal Mahal: Stories Reimagined and Retold

History, research and compelling storytelling come together to bring the story of Karikal Mahal to life.

Forgotten stories brought to life
Karikal Mahal

Places and Buildings

Karikal Mahal: Stories Reimagined and Retold

History, research and compelling storytelling come together to bring the story of Karikal Mahal to life.

Forgotten stories brought to life
Karikal Mahal

Podcast

Somerset Maugham Scandalises 1920s Singapore

Though Somerset Maugham was already well-known as a writer when he came to Singapore in 1921, his stay here inspired some of his most celebrated short stories.

Listen to the episode
Somerset Maugham
Somerset Maugham

Podcast

Somerset Maugham Scandalises 1920s Singapore

Though Somerset Maugham was already well-known as a writer when he came to Singapore in 1921, his stay here inspired some of his most celebrated short stories.

Listen to the episode
Somerset Maugham

Podcast

Somerset Maugham Scandalises 1920s Singapore

Though Somerset Maugham was already well-known as a writer when he came to Singapore in 1921, his stay here inspired some of his most celebrated short stories.

Listen to the episode

People

Uncovering the Origins of Badang the Strongman

Relics of Badang the Strongman can be found throughout the region. But who was this enigmatic figure?

Badang’s Rocks
Badang the Strongman

People

Uncovering the Origins of Badang the Strongman

Relics of Badang the Strongman can be found throughout the region. But who was this enigmatic figure?

Badang’s Rocks
Badang the Strongman

People

Uncovering the Origins of Badang the Strongman

Relics of Badang the Strongman can be found throughout the region. But who was this enigmatic figure?

Badang’s Rocks
Badang the Strongman

People

Barbara Kerr: Sharpshooter and Girl Guide Extraordinaire

Barbara Kerr made contributions to the Girl Guides, sports and animal welfare. She was also a talented soprano.

A woman of many talents
Barbara Kerr
Barbara Kerr

People

Barbara Kerr: Sharpshooter and Girl Guide Extraordinaire

Barbara Kerr made contributions to the Girl Guides, sports and animal welfare. She was also a talented soprano.

A woman of many talents
Barbara Kerr

People

Barbara Kerr: Sharpshooter and Girl Guide Extraordinaire

Barbara Kerr made contributions to the Girl Guides, sports and animal welfare. She was also a talented soprano.

A woman of many talents

Podcast

What Makes An Animal Singaporean?

Environmental historian Timothy Barnard tells us what makes migrant animals, like otters and Aedes mosquitoes, Singaporean.

Listen to the episode
A Singaporean Animal

Podcast

What Makes An Animal Singaporean?

Environmental historian Timothy Barnard tells us what makes migrant animals, like otters and Aedes mosquitoes, Singaporean.

Listen to the episode
A Singaporean Animal

Podcast

What Makes An Animal Singaporean?

Environmental historian Timothy Barnard tells us what makes migrant animals, like otters and Aedes mosquitoes, Singaporean.

Listen to the episode
A Singaporean Animal

History

From Nanjing to Nanyang

Upheaval in China saw missionaries shifting their sights and resources to Singapore and the region.

Mission work in Singapore
From Nanjing to Nanyang
From Nanjing to Nanyang

History

From Nanjing to Nanyang

Upheaval in China saw missionaries shifting their sights and resources to Singapore and the region.

Mission work in Singapore
From Nanjing to Nanyang

History

From Nanjing to Nanyang

Upheaval in China saw missionaries shifting their sights and resources to Singapore and the region.

Mission work in Singapore

Governance

The Nominated Member of Parliament Scheme

The NMP Scheme was set up to present more opportunities for Singaporeans to participate in politics.

MORE VOICES IN PARLIAMENT
Nominated Member of Parliament

Governance

The Nominated Member of Parliament Scheme

The NMP Scheme was set up to present more opportunities for Singaporeans to participate in politics.

MORE VOICES IN PARLIAMENT
Nominated Member of Parliament

Governance

The Nominated Member of Parliament Scheme

The NMP Scheme was set up to present more opportunities for Singaporeans to participate in politics.

MORE VOICES IN PARLIAMENT
Nominated Member of Parliament

Governance

How the CPF Scheme Came to Be

If things had turned out differently, Singapore would now be using a national pension scheme instead of the Central Provident Fund scheme.

A RETIREMENT NEST EGG
CPF Scheme
CPF Scheme

Governance

How the CPF Scheme Came to Be

If things had turned out differently, Singapore would now be using a national pension scheme instead of the Central Provident Fund scheme.

A RETIREMENT NEST EGG
CPF Scheme

Governance

How the CPF Scheme Came to Be

If things had turned out differently, Singapore would now be using a national pension scheme instead of the Central Provident Fund scheme.

A RETIREMENT NEST EGG

BiblioAsia Reels

Thai Buddhist Temple Wat Ananda

At Singapore's oldest Thai Buddhist temple, you'll discover elements that would not normally be found in a Buddhist temple in Thailand.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Wat Ananda

BiblioAsia Reels

Thai Buddhist Temple Wat Ananda

At Singapore's oldest Thai Buddhist temple, you'll discover elements that would not normally be found in a Buddhist temple in Thailand.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Wat Ananda

BiblioAsia Reels

Thai Buddhist Temple Wat Ananda

At Singapore's oldest Thai Buddhist temple, you'll discover elements that would not normally be found in a Buddhist temple in Thailand.

WATCH THE VIDEO
Wat Ananda

Maps

The Story of Sembawang from 19th-Century Singapore Maps

Sembawang’s history can be told through the many maps that have charted its changes over the years.

“SEMBAWANG”, “SAMBAWANG”, “SUMBAWANG”
Sembawang Maps
Sembawang Maps

Maps

The Story of Sembawang from 19th-Century Singapore Maps

Sembawang’s history can be told through the many maps that have charted its changes over the years.

“SEMBAWANG”, “SAMBAWANG”, “SUMBAWANG”
Sembawang Maps

Maps

The Story of Sembawang from 19th-Century Singapore Maps

Sembawang’s history can be told through the many maps that have charted its changes over the years.

“SEMBAWANG”, “SAMBAWANG”, “SUMBAWANG”

People

The Calligraphy of Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman Al-Attas

The master calligrapher’s artworks not only adorn physical spaces but are also found in Malay print publications.

Different calligraphy styles
Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman

People

The Calligraphy of Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman Al-Attas

The master calligrapher’s artworks not only adorn physical spaces but are also found in Malay print publications.

Different calligraphy styles
Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman

People

The Calligraphy of Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman Al-Attas

The master calligrapher’s artworks not only adorn physical spaces but are also found in Malay print publications.

Different calligraphy styles
Ustaz Syed Abdul Rahman

Culture

Chingay in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The Chingay Parade held annually in Singapore during the Lunar New Year has its roots in the tai ge from China.

A colourful spectacle
Chingay in 19th & 20th Century
Chingay in 19th & 20th Century

Culture

Chingay in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The Chingay Parade held annually in Singapore during the Lunar New Year has its roots in the tai ge from China.

A colourful spectacle
Chingay in 19th & 20th Century

Culture

Chingay in the 19th and 20th Centuries

The Chingay Parade held annually in Singapore during the Lunar New Year has its roots in the tai ge from China.

A colourful spectacle

Podcast

A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Ex–ACM director Kennie Ting tells us how port cities can reveal a different history of Asia, and what his "eat, pray, love" cities are.

Listen to the episode
A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Podcast

A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Ex–ACM director Kennie Ting tells us how port cities can reveal a different history of Asia, and what his "eat, pray, love" cities are.

Listen to the episode
A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Podcast

A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Ex–ACM director Kennie Ting tells us how port cities can reveal a different history of Asia, and what his "eat, pray, love" cities are.

Listen to the episode
A Tour of 60 Asian Port Cities

Food

Cups and Sources: Hunting Down the Origins of Kueh Pie Tee

Kueh pie tee is a fixture of classic Singaporean cooking, yet its identity has the shape of an enigma, filled with mystery and garnished with riddles.

A local favourite
Kueh pie tee
Kueh pie tee

Food

Cups and Sources: Hunting Down the Origins of Kueh Pie Tee

Kueh pie tee is a fixture of classic Singaporean cooking, yet its identity has the shape of an enigma, filled with mystery and garnished with riddles.

A local favourite
Kueh pie tee

Food

Cups and Sources: Hunting Down the Origins of Kueh Pie Tee

Kueh pie tee is a fixture of classic Singaporean cooking, yet its identity has the shape of an enigma, filled with mystery and garnished with riddles.

A local favourite

People

John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

The late Dr John Bastin was the leading authority on Stamford Raffles, having published more than 20 books and many essays on Raffles.

An eminent historian
John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

People

John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

The late Dr John Bastin was the leading authority on Stamford Raffles, having published more than 20 books and many essays on Raffles.

An eminent historian
John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

People

John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

The late Dr John Bastin was the leading authority on Stamford Raffles, having published more than 20 books and many essays on Raffles.

An eminent historian
John Sturgus Bastin: A Memoir

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Jan 2025)

A quick look at the new books available in the National Library’s collection.

new reads
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Image alt text

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Jan 2025)

A quick look at the new books available in the National Library’s collection.

new reads
Image alt text

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Jan 2025)

A quick look at the new books available in the National Library’s collection.

new reads

War and Military

All Smoke? Opium Propaganda in the Syonan Shimbun

Imperial Japan justified its occupation of Singapore with opium propaganda and prohibition promises.

THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM
THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM

War and Military

All Smoke? Opium Propaganda in the Syonan Shimbun

Imperial Japan justified its occupation of Singapore with opium propaganda and prohibition promises.

THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM
THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM

War and Military

All Smoke? Opium Propaganda in the Syonan Shimbun

Imperial Japan justified its occupation of Singapore with opium propaganda and prohibition promises.

THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM
THE SCOURGE OF OPIUM

BiblioAsia Reels

Singapore’s Early Zoos

Before the Singapore Zoo in Mandai, there were early zoos in the Botanic Gardens, Punggol, Pasir Panjang and on East Coast Road.

Watch the video
Singapore’s Early Zoos
Singapore’s Early Zoos

BiblioAsia Reels

Singapore’s Early Zoos

Before the Singapore Zoo in Mandai, there were early zoos in the Botanic Gardens, Punggol, Pasir Panjang and on East Coast Road.

Watch the video
Singapore’s Early Zoos

BiblioAsia Reels

Singapore’s Early Zoos

Before the Singapore Zoo in Mandai, there were early zoos in the Botanic Gardens, Punggol, Pasir Panjang and on East Coast Road.

Watch the video

Podcast

He Wrote the National Pledge

Irene Ng, the authorised biographer of S. Rajaratnam, tells us the legacy of Singapore’s first foreign minister, and his relationship with Lee Kuan Yew.

Listen to the episode
He Wrote the National Pledge

Podcast

He Wrote the National Pledge

Irene Ng, the authorised biographer of S. Rajaratnam, tells us the legacy of Singapore’s first foreign minister, and his relationship with Lee Kuan Yew.

Listen to the episode
He Wrote the National Pledge

Podcast

He Wrote the National Pledge

Irene Ng, the authorised biographer of S. Rajaratnam, tells us the legacy of Singapore’s first foreign minister, and his relationship with Lee Kuan Yew.

Listen to the episode
He Wrote the National Pledge

People

Japanese Anglicans in World War II Singapore

During the Japanese Occupation, four Japanese Anglicans were a sign of hope for the locals during a dark chapter in Singapore’s history.

A BEACON OF LIGHT
Image alt text
Image alt text

People

Japanese Anglicans in World War II Singapore

During the Japanese Occupation, four Japanese Anglicans were a sign of hope for the locals during a dark chapter in Singapore’s history.

A BEACON OF LIGHT
Image alt text

People

Japanese Anglicans in World War II Singapore

During the Japanese Occupation, four Japanese Anglicans were a sign of hope for the locals during a dark chapter in Singapore’s history.

A BEACON OF LIGHT

People

W. Somerset Maugham: Secrets from the Outstations

Somerset Maugham’s visits to Singapore in the 1920s inspired some of his greatest stories, but these also triggered a fierce backlash against him.

A LITERARY LUMINARY
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People

W. Somerset Maugham: Secrets from the Outstations

Somerset Maugham’s visits to Singapore in the 1920s inspired some of his greatest stories, but these also triggered a fierce backlash against him.

A LITERARY LUMINARY
Image alt text

People

W. Somerset Maugham: Secrets from the Outstations

Somerset Maugham’s visits to Singapore in the 1920s inspired some of his greatest stories, but these also triggered a fierce backlash against him.

A LITERARY LUMINARY
Image alt text

More Places and Buildings

A Kampong for the “Grand Old Man of Singapore”

Due to development and urbanisation, Lim Boon Keng’s last home at Paterson Hill no longer exists today.

A Lost Kampong
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Image alt text

More Places and Buildings

A Kampong for the “Grand Old Man of Singapore”

Due to development and urbanisation, Lim Boon Keng’s last home at Paterson Hill no longer exists today.

A Lost Kampong
Image alt text

More Places and Buildings

A Kampong for the “Grand Old Man of Singapore”

Due to development and urbanisation, Lim Boon Keng’s last home at Paterson Hill no longer exists today.

A Lost Kampong

BiblioAsia Reels

Pioneering Journalist R.B. Ooi

Malayan journalist R.B. Ooi (1905–72) worked for newspapers like the Straits Echo and the Malayan Times. Irene Lim, 96, shares her memories of her father.

Watch the Video
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BiblioAsia Reels

Pioneering Journalist R.B. Ooi

Malayan journalist R.B. Ooi (1905–72) worked for newspapers like the Straits Echo and the Malayan Times. Irene Lim, 96, shares her memories of her father.

Watch the Video
Image alt text

BiblioAsia Reels

Pioneering Journalist R.B. Ooi

Malayan journalist R.B. Ooi (1905–72) worked for newspapers like the Straits Echo and the Malayan Times. Irene Lim, 96, shares her memories of her father.

Watch the Video
Image alt text

podcast

Stella Kon: Beyond Emily of Emerald Hill

Playwright Stella Kon talks about the difference between writing plays and musicals, her favourite actor to play Emily, and her writing process.

Listen to the episode
Emily of Emerald Hill
Emily of Emerald Hill

podcast

Stella Kon: Beyond Emily of Emerald Hill

Playwright Stella Kon talks about the difference between writing plays and musicals, her favourite actor to play Emily, and her writing process.

Listen to the episode
Emily of Emerald Hill

podcast

Stella Kon: Beyond Emily of Emerald Hill

Playwright Stella Kon talks about the difference between writing plays and musicals, her favourite actor to play Emily, and her writing process.

Listen to the episode

More places and buildings

Eu Tong Sen’s “Pearl Under the Burning Tropical Sun”

The grandeur and opulence of Eu Villa on Mount Sophia was unrivalled in its heyday.

A Not-So-Humble Abode
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More places and buildings

Eu Tong Sen’s “Pearl Under the Burning Tropical Sun”

The grandeur and opulence of Eu Villa on Mount Sophia was unrivalled in its heyday.

A Not-So-Humble Abode
Image alt text

More places and buildings

Eu Tong Sen’s “Pearl Under the Burning Tropical Sun”

The grandeur and opulence of Eu Villa on Mount Sophia was unrivalled in its heyday.

A Not-So-Humble Abode
Image alt text

People

AGS Danaraj: Pioneer Town Planner and News Reader

The former newsreader AGS Danaraj was also a pioneering town planner, who always made time to help the less fortunate.

A colourful life
AGS Danaraj
AGS Danaraj

People

AGS Danaraj: Pioneer Town Planner and News Reader

The former newsreader AGS Danaraj was also a pioneering town planner, who always made time to help the less fortunate.

A colourful life
AGS Danaraj

People

AGS Danaraj: Pioneer Town Planner and News Reader

The former newsreader AGS Danaraj was also a pioneering town planner, who always made time to help the less fortunate.

A colourful life

More Places and Buildings

Remembering the Hawkins Road Refugee Camp

A temporary home for Vietnamese refugees, the Hawkins Road camp received thousands of “boat people” over nearly two decades.

A SAFE REFUGE
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More Places and Buildings

Remembering the Hawkins Road Refugee Camp

A temporary home for Vietnamese refugees, the Hawkins Road camp received thousands of “boat people” over nearly two decades.

A SAFE REFUGE
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More Places and Buildings

Remembering the Hawkins Road Refugee Camp

A temporary home for Vietnamese refugees, the Hawkins Road camp received thousands of “boat people” over nearly two decades.

A SAFE REFUGE
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Governance

Laws of Our Land: Foundations of a New Nation

The Singapore Citizenship Ordinance (1957), the Women’s Charter (1961) and the Employment Act (1968) are three legislations that have shaped modern Singapore.

THREE LANDMARK LEGISLATIONS
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Governance

Laws of Our Land: Foundations of a New Nation

The Singapore Citizenship Ordinance (1957), the Women’s Charter (1961) and the Employment Act (1968) are three legislations that have shaped modern Singapore.

THREE LANDMARK LEGISLATIONS
Image alt text

Governance

Laws of Our Land: Foundations of a New Nation

The Singapore Citizenship Ordinance (1957), the Women’s Charter (1961) and the Employment Act (1968) are three legislations that have shaped modern Singapore.

THREE LANDMARK LEGISLATIONS

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2024)

A quick look at eight new books available in the National Library’s collection.

New Reads
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Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2024)

A quick look at eight new books available in the National Library’s collection.

New Reads
Image alt text

Literature

New Books on Singapore History (Oct 2024)

A quick look at eight new books available in the National Library’s collection.

New Reads
Image alt text

People

Luís de Camões in Asia

Portugal’s most important poet was once imprisoned in Goa, saw fighting in Ternate and worked as the Superintendent for the Dead and Missing in Macau.

AUTHOR OF POEM, OS LUSÍADAS
Luís de Camões in Asia
Luís de Camões in Asia

People

Luís de Camões in Asia

Portugal’s most important poet was once imprisoned in Goa, saw fighting in Ternate and worked as the Superintendent for the Dead and Missing in Macau.

AUTHOR OF POEM, OS LUSÍADAS
Luís de Camões in Asia

People

Luís de Camões in Asia

Portugal’s most important poet was once imprisoned in Goa, saw fighting in Ternate and worked as the Superintendent for the Dead and Missing in Macau.

AUTHOR OF POEM, OS LUSÍADAS

Photography

Women Photographers in Singapore and Malaya

In the male-dominated world of 1940s and 1950s photography, three women in Singapore and Malaya found different ways to participate in their craft.

PURSUING THEIR PASSION
Women Photographers

Photography

Women Photographers in Singapore and Malaya

In the male-dominated world of 1940s and 1950s photography, three women in Singapore and Malaya found different ways to participate in their craft.

PURSUING THEIR PASSION
Women Photographers

Photography

Women Photographers in Singapore and Malaya

In the male-dominated world of 1940s and 1950s photography, three women in Singapore and Malaya found different ways to participate in their craft.

PURSUING THEIR PASSION
Women Photographers

Essays and Opinions

An 800-Year-Old Family History

Thanks to his ancestry book (zupu) and a lot of persistence, a practising Taoist priest was able to trace his ancestry all the way back to 1195.

MY FAMILY ZUPU
An 800-Year-Old Family History
An 800-Year-Old Family History

Essays and Opinions

An 800-Year-Old Family History

Thanks to his ancestry book (zupu) and a lot of persistence, a practising Taoist priest was able to trace his ancestry all the way back to 1195.

MY FAMILY ZUPU
An 800-Year-Old Family History

Essays and Opinions

An 800-Year-Old Family History

Thanks to his ancestry book (zupu) and a lot of persistence, a practising Taoist priest was able to trace his ancestry all the way back to 1195.

MY FAMILY ZUPU

Technology

The Early History of Air Conditioning in Singapore

The humble air conditioner is an innovation that we take for granted today. But for the people of Singapore in the mid-20th century, it was a luxury.

A COOL INVENTION
History of Air Conditioning

Technology

The Early History of Air Conditioning in Singapore

The humble air conditioner is an innovation that we take for granted today. But for the people of Singapore in the mid-20th century, it was a luxury.

A COOL INVENTION
History of Air Conditioning

Technology

The Early History of Air Conditioning in Singapore

The humble air conditioner is an innovation that we take for granted today. But for the people of Singapore in the mid-20th century, it was a luxury.

A COOL INVENTION
History of Air Conditioning

Nature and the Environment

The Transoceanic Pollination of the Double Coconut

In 2011, pollen from coco-de-mer trees in Singapore successfully fertilised female plants in Hawaii.

SAVING AN ENDANGERED SPECIES
Wandering Wood Double Coconut
Wandering Wood Double Coconut

Nature and the Environment

The Transoceanic Pollination of the Double Coconut

In 2011, pollen from coco-de-mer trees in Singapore successfully fertilised female plants in Hawaii.

SAVING AN ENDANGERED SPECIES
Wandering Wood Double Coconut

Nature and the Environment

The Transoceanic Pollination of the Double Coconut

In 2011, pollen from coco-de-mer trees in Singapore successfully fertilised female plants in Hawaii.

SAVING AN ENDANGERED SPECIES