Skip to main content
state library of queensland
Ash Barty, Australian tennis player, sitting with a group of children holding books.
  • Home

    • /

  • Ash Barty’s contribution to State Library

Ash Barty’s contribution to State Library

Ash Barty’s extensive support for State Library of Queensland, which includes initiatives in early literacy, digital inclusion and community engagement, reflects Ash’s dedication to making a difference in people’s lives, especially among First Nations people. Her support not only celebrates her achievements in tennis, but also serves as an inspiration for young people, encouraging them to access resources, develop a passion for reading, and embrace lifelong learning and exploration. 

Grand Slam outfits

A notable aspect of Ash Barty’s support is the inclusion of three of her iconic Grand Slam outfits in State Library’s collections. These outfits, which she wore during her victories at the 2019 French Open, the 2021 Wimbledon tournament, and the 2022 Australian Open, have been proudly displayed at State Library’s Talbot Family Treasures Wall. Through her generous donation of these outfits, Ash not only showcases her exceptional tennis achievements, providing inspiration to athletes and tennis enthusiasts, but also enriches the library’s collection of memorabilia. This remarkable addition to State Library can be enjoyed by all Queenslanders. 

White, scallop-hemmed skort and top made for Australian tennis champion Ash Barty to wear during her 2021 Wimbledon campaign. The small daisy shaped flowers on the skort were laser cut from the fabric. Ash Barty has signed her initials on the centre front of the top.
Ash Barty, Australian tennis player, kneeling with a group of children holding tennis rackets and books.

Empowering young learners

Ash Barty’s dedication to education initiatives at State Library has inspired and empowered young learners. Her commitment to promoting early literacy is evident through her acclaimed book series “Little Ash” which sparks a passion for reading and learning among children.  By promoting a lifelong passion for learning, her involvement in these activities positively impacts the development and growth of young minds. 

Support for First Nations communities

Ash Barty has made a significant contribution to Queensland by providing 13 personal computers to 10 Indigenous Knowledge Centres throughout the state. These computers are accessible to all community members, opening up digital pathways and enabling greater access to digital resources, information, and educational opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Ash Barty's support also extends to schools in rural and remote areas, particularly those with a high population of First Nations students. Her involvement encourages and enables greater access to educational resources through State Library’s “Live at the Library” program. By supporting schools in these regions, Ash helps bridge educational gaps, promotes learning, and empowers young students, especially those from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds. 

Ashleigh Barty
Ash Barty, Australian tennis player, reading to a young child while sitting outside.

The Corner Transformation Project

In addition to her contributions in early literacy, digital inclusion and community engagement, Ash Barty has taken the lead in supporting The Corner Transformation Project at State Library. Her generous donation will make it possible to create an intelligent play area that fosters innovation and interactivity through programs enhancing creativity, curiosity, and early learning skills for young visitors. Ash’s contribution adds a new dimension to State Library, promoting exploration, learning and development for children.  

Ash Barty Foundation

The core purpose of the foundation strives to gift a smile to those in need.

Ash Barty Foundation logo