Celebrate UNESCO World Science Day for Peace and Development

By Juli Crossett, Librarian, Information and Client Services | 12 November 2025

a dove flying in front of a globe, with a rocket, beakers and a pipette. underneath are the words World science day peace development

Monday 10 November was the global celebration of UNESCO World Science Day for Peace and Development, highlighting how science can shape a better tomorrow.

The theme for 2025 was: Trust, transformation, and tomorrow — The science we need for 2050.

Science connects us all, from improving health and tackling climate change to exploring new technologies that transform how we live. This year’s theme highlights the importance of building trust in science, fostering transformative change, and preparing for the future we want to create together.

Why it matters

UNESCO World Science Day for Peace and Development was officially declared by UNESCO in 2001. Its goal is to remind us that science isn’t just for scientists, it’s for everyone. The day encourages dialogue between science and society, promotes collaboration, and renews our commitment to using scientific knowledge for peace and sustainable development.

As the inspiring Dr Karl Kruszelnicki reminds us:

‘If you go with the science, you end up with a more peaceful society.’

Christina Reed (13 December 2019) Dr Karl: if you go with the Science, you end up with a more peaceful society, UNESCO, accessed 5 November 2025.

Explore science at State Library

Whether you are a student, curious about the scientific process, or already an aspiring scientist, State Library has a universe of science resources waiting for you. We are not just here to celebrate World Science Day, but also to make sure everyone has the knowledge and resources they need to explore, understand, and take part in a peaceful world of scientific progress, working toward the goals of 2050 and beyond.

All the eresources listed in this blog can be accessed with your State Library membership. It’s free to join, so if you haven’t already why not sign up today.

And don’t forget to check out the many books available in the library to borrow. We’ve created a collection of some of our greatest science hits, both online and available to borrow. Explore here.

Interested in popular science?

Science magazines from State Library Information collection, 2025, photographed by Federico Pani

Science Magazines

Stay informed with the latest in scientific research and news with our collection of science magazines such as New Scientist, Science, and Nature available to read or borrow from the library.

Keen to Inspire Minds?

Britanica Library Kids

Our collections feature eresources designed to ignite curiosity and to introduce little ones to the wonderous possibilities of science.

Gale Interactive Science

Get a little more hands on. Gale Interactive Science is an illustrated dictionary that covers many specialist terms and concepts used in biology, chemistry, earth science and human anatomy. Suitable for science enthusiasts and high school students. It also contains 3D downloadable and printable models.

After something a bit heavier?

ASM Handbooks Online

An invaluable reference for researchers, engineers, and students working with ferrous and non-ferrous materials. It includes the complete ASM Handbook series, supplements, and desk editions, all peer-reviewed and up to date.