NLB partners with GOODSTUPH Singapore to launch “Be Inspired by History” campaign
GOODSTUPH has created NLB’s “Be Inspired by History” campaign, which invites Singaporeans to use historical records to create new creative works.
The campaign celebrates the wealth of resources available at the National Library (NL) and National Archives of Singapore (NAS) — from rare photographs and oral history recordings to old newspapers and maps — and challenges creators to transform these historical treasures into original works. Whether you are a filmmaker, illustrator, TikTok storyteller, or hobbyist historian, the campaign encourages everyone to turn inspiration from history into compelling content.
Goodstuph was tasked with conceptualising the creative strategy for the campaign and drive usage of NL-NAS resources through meaningful and inspiring assets, including a brand film and the running of a creative contest.
At the heart of the campaign is a brand film that showcases the journeys of three creators who brought the past to life across industries:
• Lim Yee Hung, co-founder of HIDDEN, a discovery game played on WhatsApp that connects people with their neighbourhoods.
• Ho Yong Min, the creator behind The Urbanist Singapore, who uses maps, photographs and old plans to make Singapore’s urban evolution both entertaining and educational.
• Hafizzul Hashim, chef-owner of Restaurant Fiz, who draws on historical recipes and food narratives to reimagine Southeast Asian heritage dishes for a modern palate.
Through their stories, the film proves how a single photograph, map, or oral history can spark an idea — showing that history can be a powerful source of inspiration.
Beyond these profiles, the campaign shines a spotlight on other creators who have tapped on NLB’s collections for inspiration, and also includes a microsite offering curated resources and archival gems for those looking to start their own projects.
The Contest: Create, Submit, Win
Singaporeans are invited to submit their own original works using NL and NAS’ archives as creative inspiration — whether through a short film, social post, artwork or recipe.
Submit on: YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook
Deadline: 23 October 2025
Prizes include: iPad Air (M3), Insta360 X4, and more
Judging Criteria: originality, execution, and meaningful use of archival materials
Project lead and BiblioAsia Editor-in-Chief Jimmy Yap, said: “For many years, NL and NAS have served as rich sources of inspiration for creatives and researchers alike. The Be Inspired by History campaign is our way of highlighting creators who are making interesting things using archival material. With the contest, we hope that more people will be aware of this treasure trove of information waiting to be explored and we’re encouraged that GOODSTUPH too were able to recognise the richness of our archives. Encouraging people to use archival material to tell new types of Singapore Stories is a great way to mark SG60 and NLB30, the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the National Library Board.”
“The collections hold the stories, textures, and truths that shaped who we are — and when we revisit them, we don’t just remember; we reinvent. Because true inspiration demands creation,” said Jason Yong, Creative Lead at GOODSTUPH. “With Be Inspired by History, we wanted to create a platform that empowers creators to dig into Singapore’s collective memory and remix it into something original, personal, and new.”
The campaign will run across digital and social channels, featuring engaging visuals and content to spark curiosity and encourage creators to dive into Singapore’s historical records. It reinforces NLB’s role as a key memory institution, one that is both a custodian of knowledge and a creative enabler — proving that history isn’t just to be remembered; it’s meant to inspire.
