The Friends of Battye Library (Inc.) was inaugurated on the 6 July 1981 to support the J S Battye Library of West Australian History and the State Archives (now known as the State Records Office of Western Australia).

Sir Paul Hasluck was the Friends of Battye Library's first President and since then many distinguished historians, researchers and philanthropists have accepted the role of President and Patron of the organisation.

Our aims are to assist with the acquisition, preservation and use of archival and documentary materials.

The Battye Library is located on the third floor of the Alexander Library Building, and the State Records Office is on the ground floor of the same building with entry through doors facing onto James Street.