In 2012 Buildings, Books and Blackboards-Intersecting Narratives, the combined conference of the Australian and New Zealand History of Education Society (ANZHES), Mechanics’ Institutes World Wide (under the auspices of Mechanics’ Institutes Victoria),and incorporating the 10th Australian Library History Forum will be held in Melbourne, Australia. This conference presents an unique opportunity for the exploration of complimentary historical perspectives, the sharing of ideas and for cross-disciplinary engagement through the prism of shared historical interests. The conference will provide a forum for those interested in the history of the people, places and institutions which have shaped our culture and our learning. Buildings, Books and Blackboards-Intersecting Narratives 2012 will focus on the ways in which the stories of individuals, including librarians, philanthropists, administrators, educators and also organisations and institutions have intersected throughout history to engage with their communities to promote the diffusion of knowledge and access to learning