Our group recently stopped atthe State Library of Victoria where the story of Ned Kelly and Redmond Barry was brought to life in the now infamous bullet proof armor permanently on exhibit. The La Trobe reading room (a tourist attraction in its own right) was packed with students on a Public holiday nonetheless. Stunning! Opened in 1913, this magnificent octagonal reading room is six stores high and can house 32,000 books and 320 readers at its desks. When it was built, the enormous reinforced-concrete structure was the largest in the world. Known as the Domed Reading Room until it was refurbished and reopened in 2003, the building is an architectural feat. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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Really cool place to come, check out a book and hang out. Great views. You feel like you are in a Harry Potter movie. Come take pictures and look at some old books. read more

State Library of Victoria - Felt like Harry Potter - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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My wife and I had heard about the State Library, and was interested in seeing what this looked like and ... there's no comparison with the libraries that we've been to. There is a big section of town where the trams are free to ride, and if you catch one of the 2 right trams, you can visit many of the attractions. We rode to the State Library - it was quite awesome to see how big it was, how many people - including many students - were using the facilities. There was also an interesting Children's Section. Interesting were also the various statues in front, including that "no-good" St. George that killed those poor innocent cute little dragons! Sob! read more

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Quality/Quantity - What a beautiful library! Known for their Dome. See pictures. Not only a good place to take a break, but such wonderful architecture here. Tours & workshops available. Free and paid events. Atmosphere - Crazy busy! 6 stores, again known for their Dome, see pictures. Free self-service lockers. Small cafe. Some art. Free wifi, I did not use it. Open 7 days a week from 10am to 6pm, Yelp hours differ. Service - Good. Price - Free. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 1854, Australia's oldest library, and one of the first free libraries in the world. 2020 - $88M AUD redevelopment project. read more

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We entered the library at Swinson Street and a volunteer asked us if he could help us. He gave us a map and pointed us in the direction of the dome in the breathtaking Latrobe reading room. This is a must see and a Melbourne landmark. We took the lift to the free world of the book exhibit on level four & took a second lift to view the dome from 6. There were and study rooms, meeting rooms, conference rooms, book shops and a cafe. Each room in the library & the lawn were busy. read more

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As a low-key book nerd who enjoy visiting bookstores and libraries, I had to come here to take in the beauty of the State Library of Victoria. I knew it would take some cajoling and major hyping up to get my husband to come along, but alas he did. And once we were walking around inside, he was just as mesmerized as I was. You gotta see that beautiful main room with the rotunda and then you gotta come up all those floors to take an aerial view of it. No worries - there is an elevator. What a beautiful space and how envious I was of everyone who lived nearby who has this library available as a study/workspace. Come by, take photos (quietly because it is a library!), or just enjoy some downtime here. We sat down for a bit, enjoyed the air conditioning, did some writing/photo editing, while looking up here and there to just take in the beauty of this place. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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What a library! It's probably the most awesome library that I have ever been to! (I've never said that about a library!) The halls and space is so grand and community on the outside lawn, is quite happening and open! One can take it to the art of reading a book, people watch, play chess or/and simply enjoy this public spot and historical place! It's quite a landmark and known to have the best WiFi for a library! I wouldn't mind fancying a study here if I had to cram for some informational learning! Upstairs, has the brief view of the incredible library layout and breakdown of the history on the establishment of the library! Pleasantly going through this massive library was quite enjoyable surprisingly. read more

On our way into Melbourne on the tram from the pier we chatted with a local about what to see. When I noticed the State Library on the map she said "Oh, you have to go." Of course, I then had to since I'm a retired librarian. The library recently underwent a major renovation and had been open for less than a month. It's a very stately building with a grand reading room and dome. You can go up to the top level of the dome to look down into the reading room. There are displays on most of the dome levels as well as in other parts of the building. There are beautiful murals and many welcoming docents and workers. The restrooms are very nice too. read more

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Head to the 4th floor to reach the stairs for the 6th. It's the best view of the library dome. breathtaking architecture. (5th floor also has some nice angles to photograph). makes me want to go on a world tour of beautiful libraries. each of the levels has finely curated exhibits/showcases, covering aus history, graphic novels, high and low art. also get your free wifi and A/c as you plan your next stop. the free trolley stops right in front of the building and it's only a few big city blocks from the outdoor market. read more

State Library of Victoria - Love this library/dome - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Walking distance from the main shopping streets of Melbourne, State Library of Victoria is a beautiful building. They have a nice gallery at the top floor; and there are free exhibits at two other floors. I saw The changing face of Victoria and World of the Book. read more

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Of all the museums and great architectures in Melbourne, the State Library seems to be the most underappreciated. I'm no better before I was here - I loved NGV, ACMI and I even went all the way to ACCA, and the only reason I stepped into the State Library was to lure some free wifi. Of course it ended up attracting me in all different ways and I stayed literally hours inside walking through all the hallways. The central hall, the spiral stairway, the mini exhibitions around the library, the jade-coloured lamps... it has all the elements of a very classy library but also all the most updated and convenient facilities (wifi, well, for instance). read more

State Library of Victoria - View from above. It MAKES people love to study. - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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When reviewing the State Library, I really don't know what aspect to focus on. For starters, the setting is incredible. It is one of the oldest and most attractive buildings in the CBD and on a nice day the grassy area in front is packed with all sorts of people. If you have your lunch-break or an afternoon spare, then this spot is the perfect place to hang out with friends, take your lunch to, read a book, people watch, or do whatever it is you like to do. The services the State Library offer are impressive too. They have a massive collection of books in almost every field you can think of. When the University of Melbourne didn't have a book, most of the time it would at the State Library. There are also large amounts of study space (warning: these can fill up during busy times) and free wifi. This makes it a good place to study. On occasion there are cool exhibitions to look out for at the State Library too. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

The State Library of Victoria is a great place to visit, whether to read a book, work/study, or view an exhibition. The main entrance to library is beautiful, but perhaps the most amazing part of the building is the La Trobe Reading Room. This is a large room with a glass-domed ceiling, giving the room lots of natural light. The room itself is three or four stories high. There's no shortage of space to sit and read or work, and there are areas designated as quiet areas as well as those that permit conversation. There's free wi-fi available throughout the library, and their are plenty of public computers if you don't have a laptop with you. Several more unique aspects of the library (besides the already mentioned La Trobe Reading Room), include a chess area where people playing chess have priority, two giant outdoor chess boards, and several galleries that house exhibits. read more

State Library of Victoria - A table in the chess room. Priority for the table is given to people playing chess. - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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I love this place! My friend brought me here knowing that I love books. The library has a lot of sections which includes an exhibit of paintings and other forms of arts. The best part however (in my own opinion) is the Reading Dome... the first time I saw it I was speechless and I just kept on smiling. I don't know why but it reminded me of Harry Potter, lol.. I've seen a lot of people taking photos, which is unusual in a library but you'll understand why when you actually see it for yourself. Anyway, the place was quiet and very ideal for studying (or sleeping). The chairs are big enough to keep you comfortable. Also, there are built-in book stands so you can read comfortably (I only found out about this during my second visit). Almost, if not all, areas have charging ports. And to all tech-savvy people, they have free wifi so you can immediately upload your beautiful photos of the place. read more

State Library of Victoria - Reading Dome at State Library of Victoria, viewed from the top - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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This is Melbourne's cultural and literary hub, and a great hang out spot for lunches, study and catch up with friends; even outside the library in the grassed areas overlooking Swanston Street. A great inviting vibe conducive to study and writing; ensuring that I am fully productive. The ambience is beautiful and the reference area for study and checking their book collection is trendy and purports a friendly Melbourne vibe. Locker space is provided with a deposit which is refunded to you, and plastic bags are provided for you to store the items you need to take with you into the library. Also their Dome Gallery is a great dose of culture; also free of charge with art showcasing Victoria in its best possible light is seen. Until the 12th of February 2012, art on how Melbourne became the city that it is today with key historical artefacts is also on display which includes the discovery of Australian explorers Burke and Wills. It may not be the most entertaining exhibition; however if you want a history lesson on this great city; it is worth taking a look if you happen to be around in the area, and provided you have a spare 10 minutes to educate yourself and learn more. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

This State Library is pretty dope. Located at La Trobe & Swanston it's in the free team zone and near a strip of colleges including La Trobe University I'm guessing. Now from the front this library doesn't look as big as you'd think. It's 6 floors due to the dome in the main reading room, La Trobe. Getting a library card is hassle free, present an ID and something with your address if you're a temporary resident or resident outright. Now this library is not a lending facility so you read and research all in house. Aside from books there is computer access and wifi but my connection was buggin'. Good thing though because there are a couple of dedicated levels that are museum like with ancient books, a cool advertisement section about Holden Motors, and about the Aboriginals. There are also exhibition rooms with nice paintings some classic, some contemporary, and some historical. I recommend really walking around and read something in the La Trobe Reading Room. read more

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The State Library is that giant building on the corner of Latrobe Street and Swanston Street. You thought it was an Art Gallery? Museum? .........? You may be partly right there my friends. The State Library is home to many permanent and temporary exhibitions displayed year round in gallery and spaces throughout the library. Visitors often find the unexpected when exploring this huge building. If you have grown up in Melbourne like me you most likely have encountered the State Library at some stage. Boring school trip maybe? For many academic focused individuals the State Library Reading Room is THE place to wile away days, weeks, months, even years studying and researching all manner of subjects from the biggest collection of literature in the state. The State Library is a great place to enjoy free wifi or computer use and they offer printing and photocopying, which is always useful. What many locals don't know is that the State Library hosts events! Classes and workshops, touring exhibitions, film screenings, seminars and talks. The event program is long and varied and chances are you will find something going on almost every day. Bonus points as The State Library is opposite Melbourne Central and the station so is easy to get to on public transport! Explore the "that huge building" and find a world of learning...or at least a quiet spot to check the footy scores. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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I didn't go to the State Library to read a book but to look at an exhibition: "As Modern As Tomorrow" about Australian modern photographers in the 1950s and 60s. The photographs are from the library's picture collection. It is an excellent exhibition and really well presented, typical of the standard of exhibitions that the State Library puts on. The Library has regular excellent exhibitions that focus on different parts of the library's collection, although not always books. The large exhibition gallery is just off to the side of the front entrance. I think about going into the library but I'd have to get a locker for my bag and I'd spent over half an hour looking at the exhibition - another time. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

I'm not going to write about how amazing the State Library is, because that goes without saying (and besides, it's already been covered...). Instead, what I'm going to rave about is the humble piece of lawn situated out the front. The State Library lawn seems to have become the unofficial hangout spot of half of Melbourne. On any given sunny day, you'll find crowds of people casually milling on the grass. From lip-locked teens to study conscious students and business men on their lunch break, this place doesn't discriminate. In fact, it has single handedly solved that ultimate city conundrum; you want to pack your lunch in order to save some much needed cash, but where on earth do you eat it? Why on the State Library Lawn of course. So while you're in the scholarly mood, grab a book and soak up the sunshine and indulge in a much needed break. You've probably been cooped up inside the library for far too long anyway. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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This library has come from a century in the past but still manages to keep up with the latest trends of today. (Read: Wifi enabled) The heritage building is exotic to look at and the beauty prolongs well inside the walls. The Dome gallery alone makes this place a must visit for any tourist. Even if you're not fond of books or libraries, this room looks like it could be the crux for the Da Vinci Code in Australia (If Dan Brown ever writes a book like that) The gallery is mystical and I love sitting in this part of the library. It's much quieter as downstairs there are numerous students doing group study or getting a tuition. The grass outside can get crowded but only when it's sunny or warm. And being Melbourne thats probably for just a few days! In fairness, I was in Melbourne during peak winter, so cannot comment for the rest of the year. It's difficult to become a member if you don't live in Victoria. But its not a lending library anyways, so I could still use the general facilities like wifi, reading rooms, exhibitions and film screenings. read more

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As I sit here in the Latrobe Reading Library section, I'm wishing that Melbourne's State Library didn't have free wifi because truth is, I should be studying for my finance exam coming up this Monday. The library is quite busy and it took a good 30 minutes to find myself a place to sit but it's study week and exams are coming up so that was expected. This is one of my favorite places in the city and I prefer to come and study in this library over any of the RMIT options though they are all conveniently located within a few blocks of one another. Though it's frustrating not to be able to bring your backpack in I often find myself dropping my bag in a locker and grabbing a quick coffee at Mr. Tulk before heading on into get my study on. (definitely recommend this coffee spot) The Library's amazing and has got tons to offer for everyones needs. They've even got a beautiful lawn outside where homeless people sleep, yeah you didn't think that you could call a library your home did you? Anyway, when homeless people and pigeons aren't taking up the space the city puts on free concerts, yeah free! I've seen Miami Horror & City and Colour for free in front of the state library within the past 8 months (beware of hipsters). read more

In 1854, Sir Redmond Barry established the Melbourne Public Library. He wanted a place where the world's knowledge and information would be freely available to the residents of the growing colony of Victoria regardless of their status or resources. He wanted a 'People's University'. Now named the State Library of Victoria, this library still serves this purpose. It is the central library of Victoria and holds over 2 million books. It has a couple of reading rooms, lockers, a parents room, an arts library, a chess room to name a few of its facilities. The building itself stands tall, proud and you can really feel the history behind this iconic structure by standing on Swanston Street and looking at it. The front lawn is a popular spot for those after a spot to chill out in summer or to simply grab some lunch. There are also statues of Sir Redmond Barry and Jeanne D'Arc to name a few. I really like studying here when I'm in the CBD. It is centrally located in the heart of the CBD, there is a combination of round tables or partitioned booths for you to choose from. They offer free wi-fi, power points for your laptop and I doubt that there is a book that you won't be able to find in there. When I go, I always head straight in to find a spot, put my head down and study but I'll have to take a few next time, walk around and admire the beautiful architecture that this historic venue has to offer. read more

The library is a great place to visit and of course you can peruse books from a wide range of authors including yours truly. There is also a great range of newspapers from across the globe and the art collection is a must experience. Ned Kellies armour and death mask are one of the more ghoulish exhibits but is very popular. read more

The State Library of Victoria is just incredible and, dare I say, my absolute favorite thing about Melbourne. It's gorgeous. The first time that I walked into the La Trobe reading room, it was all I could do to stand in absolute awe of how beautiful the long walls of books and the brilliant glass ceiling was. As a foreign traveller, the exhibits were not only intriguing but also introduced me to elements of Victorian history that I otherwise would not have been exposed to. The wifi is actually pretty good speed given that it's open to the public and there's a great cafe right next door for when studying starts to make one a bit sleepy and unfocused. This place is a treasure and I will miss it dearly when I go home! read more

While I was on holidays in Melbourne I visited the State Library of Victoria just for the architecture. It is breathtaking. I'm a photographer so this place was an absolute must visit while I was in town. I didn't realise it before visiting, but you can head up the stairs to the top floor for the best views of the place. I took photos from lots of different angles and easily spent an hour or so here just walking around, snapping shots and enjoying the quiet. read more

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This place is gorgeous and to think it is free to the public is just insane. Walked by here and there was a ton of people just hanging around this area and having a good time. Did not really walked around but would had if I knew that the architecture is so amazing when I saw the show "Running Man" which was also film in this location. However, perfect timing since there was a FREE Rome Exhibition going on and had a chance to look at a look of art work that is on architecture, which was a treat. Nice place to just come to and sit around and relax. read more

Beautiful library filled with old charm. We wandered around the library mostly for looks since we were on a short visit. It's one of those libraries that has it's own culture with events and happenings. Just to see the beauty of a older library...you have to go. read more

State Library of Victoria - http://www.flickr.com/photos/msfumi/4172619468/in/set-72157610591753235 - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

Okay, I probably don't spend huge amounts of time here but for a place where you don't have to spend a cent this place is pretty awesome. Not only are there heaps of books (but then again what else do you expect to find in a library) but they also have free internet (though it isn't the fastest) as well as a number of permanent (and some temporary) exhibitions. The dome is probably one of my favourite parts of the library, namely because it has been set up like Bentham's panopticon and has are very old feel about it. There are a couple of levels around the dome, one of them containing a collection of old books, and another one with a exhibition on the history of Victoria. There are also a couple of rooms dedicated to Victorian art. Oh, if you like chess then there are multiple opportunities to be able to indulge in the game, including a couple of giant chess sets out the front. Oh, and the grassed area out the front is also pretty cool, especially when the buskers come out at a lunch time (though it does tend to get pretty packed on a nice day). read more

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When I was in year 12, I decided (along with many others), that the state library was the best place to study for my exams and to research my essays. Uninitiated as I was to the merits of a university library (and, indeed, unable to get much benefit from them without a student card), I found the state library to be an exciting and magical place, full of more information than I could ever hope to learn and free internet. It's gone through a few changes since I first started going to study, but I still love spending an afternoon buried in a pile of books. The lovely security guard I befriended who would go around filling up stressed out students' water bottles so that they wouldn't have to leave their notes doesn't work there any more, but in return for his loss we have upgraded systems and new books. The obscure record collection is just as fantastic as it ever was; and for audiophiles such as myself the chance to sit down and listen to something I could never hope to find or afford (for the sweet price of the minute it took me to register for a membership) is priceless. The first time you go, make sure you explore every area. There are many rooms with many different atmospheres and noise levels, so find the one you love the most and you'll really get the most out of your experience. read more

State Library of Victoria - Libraries Near Me - Melbourne, VIC

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There's something quite soothingly intellectual about heritage buildings that newer architecture just can't seem to replicate. Maybe it's all the associations with academia in film and on television; we've watched countless students and professors walking through archways and along canals on Ivy League campuses in the US and at Oxford and Cambridge in the UK, making haughty little in-jokes as they go. Maybe it's just all the books these types of buildings often shelter. The State Library of Victoria is among Melbourne's most notable of this type of building, adorned with grand statues of historical figures and Greek myths. Most people probably know it as the grassy knoll on which different groups of people are always gathering and shouting passionately about things with a loudspeaker. The grounds have always been hallowed as a place of political expression, given its founding values of an institution for the free pursuit of knowledge and self-education for the everyman. As you'd expect, the Library is generally crowded with university and high school students, teachers and professors; along with people from all walks of life chasing access to computers, internet, newspapers, journals, archives and books. Most in attendance will be there with a purpose, looking for a quiet place to study, using its extensive back catalogue of resources, chasing down their family tree or killing time on Facebook. Thankfully, around half the computers have been designated as quick access, preventing the inevitable clogging that the latter activity would inevitably lead to. Like any academic institution, the State Library has a broad but imperfect collection. Its no-loans policy has meant that it is a haven for the last minute completion of assignments, as all books are returned to the shelf at the end of the day, so early admittance means you can get your hands on what you need with the catch that you either need to photocopy it or complete your work there. However, most of this collection is in storage, and requires forward planning in order to access it, so it's best to sign up to the library and use the online catalogue to order the books you need so they're waiting for your arrival. The quality of the study space varies from room to room. For example, the beautiful, high ceilinged Redmond Barry room features spacious desks with individual power points and is a joy to study in. However, it fills up very quickly, particularly around university exam time. On the other hand, though the Latrobe Reading Room's obvious heritage credentials make for pleasing aesthetics, the old school cramped desks and tables, shortage of power points, variable internet connection and confusing layout make it a less desirable study hub. However, anyone unconcerned with computers will find most rooms an adequate space in which to set up shop. People carrying backpacks and large bags beware; security may refuse admittance unless you pay to store your belongings in one of their lockers, priced by the hour. Though once inside, the staff are generally friendly, understanding and helpful, and are happy to give you a friendly run-down of how the system works. On the whole, the State Library provides the community service that is set out in its founding mandate admirably, and is among the most pleasant and peaceful academically equipped libraries in Melbourne. read more

The sight of the cavernous La Trobe reading room in winter is one of my favourite views in Melbourne. It's an octagonal room with wooden desks radiating out from a central point. Over the room itself are three floors of galleries and a massive skylight. In winter, it gets dark quite early, and the room gets quiet, and they turn on the soft lights under green lampshades which adorn the desks, and it's simply beautiful in a way that's about space and silence and books and desks. read more

I spent most of my uni days here, oh yeah, sometimes working, but mostly sitting on the gorgeous green grass outside eating lunch with every other office worker from the area! No really, it's such a great place. Recently they opened up a cafe to one side, named after the very first librarian who worked there. It's not just a librarythere's an audio/visual centre, a catalogue for all the main media, the Redmond Barry Reading Room which has an amazing collection of books from history to politics and so on. The La Trobe reading room is specifically Australiana information. This room holds the large glass dome and has hard wooden desks to work on, so you either work really hard or procrastinate a lot! The library in itself is also a gallery, with a vast collection of Australian paintings and drawings. The staff are great and really helpful with whatever you need. You can even order books that they will find for you, and then you go and pick them up. It's a great place if you want to go and work hard, or even if you want to sit and relax. read more

I love this place...so much history, art and culture under one roof. Make sure you go through to the LaTrobe Reading room and the free exhibitions that surround it's dome over many levels. read more

This library is beautiful. I was in here a bit to get some work done (and to use the computer/wifi one day when I had forgotten my phone). There's free wifi, which was good enough for me. There are always a lot of people, but it's not uncomfortably crowded. The location is very central - I spent a lot of time around here during my stay in Melbourne. There are also sometimes musicians outside, which is always a plus. It's just a great place to relax or work. read more

Definitely a fan of the the chess section. Really pretty and big. People need to shut the fuck up though in some areas- However, I like the printing cards that they have. It's pretty cool how you buy one for $0.30 cents, and just top it up along the way. Really secure lockers, lots of outlets- pretty handy. Occasionally weird drunken place men outside that hug you, but thats 'occasional' for pretty people ;). Lot's art on the second floor- Nice touch. Plus- They have elevators! WOOHOO! I guess that's a 5 star. Noiceee one. read more

Cool statue of St. George fighting a very Aussie looking dragon outside, beautiful architecture, great study space, free wifi, good coffee at their in library coffee house Mr. Tulks, and an inspiring original edition book collection on display (Newton, Curie, Ptolemy, Mao, Diderot's encyclopedia). If you are super noise sensitive, there can be some shuffling about from the crowd, so bring headphones or earplugs if you want to seriously study. And explore the many different rooms, which seem to have varying levels of quiet and studiousness, to find one that suits. Enjoy! read more

The awesome collections worth the trip in for a library card, nd the place is always lively and humming an excellent place to learn or just soak up the atmosphere! read more

What a gorgeous library! I wandered by it towards the end of a day exploring Melbourne, and when I walked into the big reading room, my jaw dropped (probably- or I may have cursed excitedly in my head). I walked around for a bit, but they were about to close, and I decided to come back the next day and take a tour - and so I did! I highly recommend their free tours by people passionate about the library and its history. There's even an art gallery and some amazing exhibits! If you like books, history, libraries, or beautiful buildings, this is a must-see while in Melbourne. read more

A nice quiet space in the city - I was visiting Melbourne and spent the day exploring the city. Went to the public library to take a break - there is a small art gallery, which is free and worth checking out. The reading room has classic wooden desks and tons of character. 5 stars. read more

In the late 1960s and early 1970s the State Library of Victoria is a place I went to after the Baillieu Library closed during the weekends before my exams. It was a fascinating place. However it was dimly lit and there was the continuous sound of the ladders being moved around as staff went about the task of getting books. Not sure if I did much constructive study, but it soothed the guilt feeling of time wasted in weeks past. I went back to the library for the Persian Special Day a few weeks ago (2012). I was totally knocked out the by change. What a marvelous, well-lit and spacious place it is now. I have been back twice since. As a Victorian I had no idea about the improvements that had taken place in the Library. Thank you to all involved in the change. It is a great tourist attraction! read more