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  • People seated at desks arranged in an octagonal pattern inside the La Trobe Reading Room of State Library Victoria.
  • People walk past an entrance to State Library Victoria building.
  • People seated on the lawn in front of the neo-classical columns and pediment of State Library Victoria.

State Library Victoria

  • Heritage listed
  • Learning

Established in 1854 as the Melbourne Public Library, State Library Victoria is Australia's oldest public library and one of the first free public libraries in the world.

A Melbourne landmark and cultural icon, the library is a magnificent 19th-century building with some of the city’s most beautiful heritage interiors. A special highlight is the La Trobe Reading Room, with its majestic octagonal domed ceiling.

The library's collections include Ned Kelly's complete armour, over two million books, hundreds of thousands of pictures, newspapers, maps and manuscripts, and masses of audio, video and digital material - all reflecting the changing face of Victoria over the past 150 years.

The library's green lawn is a popular gathering spot, hosting events and busking performances.

There are permanent and touring exhibitions to explore in the various galleries of the library. Free guided tours are also available.

Dates and times

Day Times
Monday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Tuesday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Wednesday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Thursday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Friday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Saturday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm
Sunday
  • 10am - 6pm 10am - 6pm

Location

State Library Victoria
328 Swanston St
Melbourne 3000

Open in maps location for State Library Victoria

Contact details

  • telephone number: 03 8664 7000
  • email address: inquiries@slv.vic.gov.au
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Gift ideas from State Library Victoria

State Library Victoria Cultural Membership

State Library Victoria Cultural Membership

Give the best of the Library, all year round. Members enjoy exclusive tours, talks and exhibition previews, and priority access to upcoming events.
$119 Buy now
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