The library is billing the program as "a massive year of illuminating new perspectives, challenging perceptions, and getting to the heart of the matter".

Headlining the wide range of speakers is major award winning journalist and author Stan Grant discussing a world in crisis, as well as Carly Findlay in conversation with local legend Kurt Fearnley and Belinda Downes about Growing Up Disabled in Australia and their journeys.

Additionally, others special guests locked in include Sue-Ellen Kusher who chats with journalist Sandra Hogan on Thursday 20 May about being drawn into the world of spies as a child after finding out her parents worked for ASIO in the 1950s.

Hear from award winning authors Sofia Laguna, Emily Maguire and Tony Birch, and powerful communicators Tony Wilson, Andrew Pippos, Kirsten Banks and more.

Various special programs will also be taking place throughout the year such as the Sydney Writer's Festival, a complete day of streaming sessions of All About Women live from the Sydney Opera House, and numerous Look Who's Talking Online programs.

Manager Libraries and Learning Keryl Collard said Look Who's Talking has been connecting the Maitland community with captivating stories and storytellers since 2008.

"We look forward to expanding the voices in our program to represent our diverse, vibrant community in 2021," she said.

To view the full Look Who's Talking program and to book, visit www.maitlandlibrary.com.au