News

Democracy archive seeks local election keepsakes

By Ivy Jensen

Oct 16, 2026

State Library Victoria chief librarian and director of collections Roxanne Missingham. Photo by Eugene Hyland

From letterbox flyers in Echuca to how-to-vote cards handed out in Kyabram, State Library Victoria is urging Campaspe residents to help preserve a snapshot of democracy ahead of November’s state election.

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The library has launched a statewide campaign encouraging Victorians to collect and donate election material including brochures, flyers, badges, balloons and other campaign items.

Residents can send material directly to the State Library Victoria, 328 Swanston St, reply paid 69565 Melbourne 3000, or drop it off at their local library for forwarding.

The Riley and Ephemera Collection at State Library Victoria. Photo by Eugene Hyland

State Library Victoria chief executive Vicki McDonald said the aim was to build a comprehensive record of the issues and concerns shaping the election across metropolitan and regional Victoria.

The material will become part of the Riley and Ephemera Collection, one of the state's largest archives documenting political and social movements, elections, referendums and protests dating back to the mid-1800s.

The library is also collecting digital campaign content, including emails, websites, newsletters and social media material. They can be emailed to legaldeposit@slv.vic.gov.au

Organisers are particularly keen to receive contributions from regional communities such as Echuca, Kyabram and surrounding districts to ensure local voices and election issues are captured for future generations.