A Melbourne landmark and cultural icon, the State Library is a magnificent 19th-century building with some of the city’s most beautiful heritage interiors.
With its majestic domed ceiling, the La Trobe Reading Room is a library highlight. Don’t miss the two free permanent exhibitions: Ned Kelly’s armour in the changing face of Victoria, and trace the history of books in Mirror of the World. Free guided tours are also available.
The State Library’s collections include over two million books, hundreds of thousands of pictures, newspapers, maps and manuscripts, and masses of audio, video and digital material – all reflecting the culture of Victoria over the past 150 years.
You can also enjoy fabulous artworks and exhibitions by visiting one of the free galleries: the Keith Murdoch Gallery, Cowen Gallery and Dome Galleries. See what’s showing on the media wall in Experimedia.
As part of the Library’s Vision 2020 redevelopment, the Swanston Street entrance and foyer, Information Centre, courtyards and Palmer Hall will close for construction. The Swanston Street entrance and ground floor spaces will reopen in Spring 2019.
The entrance to the Library is now through the new Russell Street and La Trobe Street entrances.