A self latching device for self-latching a sliding closure such as a window sash. The device includes a latch member (17) which is moveable between a latching position and a non-latching position. The latch member (17) when in the latching position is engaged with a strike (42). A biasing element (23) biases the latch member (17) into one of the latching and non-latching positions. A magnetic element (43) is provided for moving the latch member (17) into the other of the latching and non-latching positions. In one form the magnetic element (43) is associated with the strike (42) and a magnet element (33) is associated with the latch member (17). The magnets are preferably permanent magnets (33 and 43). A user accessible slider (26) coupled by a coupler (34, 35) to magnet slider (31) enables the magnet element (33) to be temporarily moved away from the magnetic element (43) to enable the latch member (17) to retract from the strike (42).