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  • Books on shelves in Melbourne Athenaeum Library.
  • A person perusing books on shelves in Melbourne Athenaeum Library.
  • A group of four musicians in an intimate setting.
  • Melbourne Athenaeum Library building on Collins Street.

Melbourne Athenaeum Library

  • Learning
  • Community

The heritage-listed Melbourne Athenaeum Library has operated from its Collins Street headquarters since 1839, making it Victoria’s oldest subscription-based library.

The library holds a 30,000-strong collection, including new releases and classics, and hosts regular music performances, talks, and book and screen clubs. Members enjoy the historic atmosphere and quiet haven in a bustling city.

Visitors are welcome to browse or attend events but you need to be a member to use the library for an extended period. Staff and volunteers are happy to help with any questions you may have about the Melbourne Athenaeum Library and its fascinating history.

Hours

Day Times
Monday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Tuesday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Wednesday
  • 10am - 8pm 10am - 8pm
Thursday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Friday
  • 10am - 4pm 10am - 4pm
Saturday
  • 10am - 2pm 10am - 2pm
Sunday
  • Closed

Location

Level 1
Melbourne Athenaeum Library
188 Collins St
Melbourne 3000

Open in maps location for Melbourne Athenaeum Library

Contact details

  • telephone number: 03 9650 3100
  • email address: library@melbourneathenaeum.org.au
  • Visit website for Melbourne Athenaeum Library
Facebook page for Melbourne Athenaeum Library
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The City of Melbourne respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land we govern, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong / Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin and pays respect to their Elders past and present. We acknowledge and honour the unbroken spiritual, cultural and political connection they have maintained to this unique place for more than 2000 generations.

We accept the invitation in the Uluru Statement from the Heart and are committed to walking together to build a better future. For more information, visit Aboriginal Melbourne.

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