Melbourne Athenaeum Library: Find History & Literary Treasures
Unleash your curiosity with the literary wonders that abound at the Melbourne Athenaeum Library.
Looking for a quiet haunt to escape the city buzz and surround yourself with books? The Melbourne Athenaeum Library might be just the ticket.
Tucked away upstairs in one of Melbourne’s oldest buildings, this charming library is full of character—and very welcoming to visitors. Whether you’re just popping in to take a look or thinking about joining, it’s well worth a visit.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits and accessibility advice for Melbourne Athenaeum, Library
Melbourne Athenaeum Library and Reading Room
A Warm Welcome (Even If You’re Not a Member)
Anyone is welcome to pop in and look around the Melbourne Athenaeum Library.
On our visit, we find friendly staff and volunteers happy to chat and share a bit of history or help us explore the collection. However, if you’d like to sit and read, use the Wi-Fi, or enjoy a cuppa from the self-serve tea and coffee station, you’ll need to become a member.
And really, once you see the place, you might want to anyway.
With over 30,000 books—everything from the latest crime novels to timeless classics and biographies—it’s a haven for book lovers. There’s even a shelf of pre-loved books for just $2 each, perfect for bargain hunters and nostalgic readers alike.
A little step back in time
The library will celebrated its 185th anniversary in November 2024, and it wears its age beautifully. Think tall bookshelves, creaky floorboards, and an old-school charm that feels like stepping into a bygone era.
“On an outing with my brother Joe, a short walk from Fed Square took us to the Athenaeum Theatre and Library on Collins Street. And how wonderful that it’s free entry into this old worldly library!
Such a pleasure to see books on old-fashioned shelves and lots of categories to explore. It’s peaceful and inviting, with tables and chairs for people to sit and read—and a coffee/tea station, though you do need to be a member to use it.
We loved it.”
– Terrie
Accessibility notes
The Athenaeum Library is located on the first floor, up a flight of stairs. There is a gorgeous antique lift, but it’s not wheelchair-accessible and has heavy doors. It works fine, but you might need a hand operating it. Just ask—staff are more than happy to help.
The lift itself isn’t obvious from the street level, so if you can’t spot it, don’t be shy about asking.
Membership perks
To fully immerse yourself in the Athenaeum Library experience, consider becoming a member. Gain access to exclusive privileges and discounts, and meet like-minded members in one of the Athenaeum’s book and screen clubs. With up to 30 items available for borrowing at a time, you can curate your own personal library.
For those who crave more than just solitary reading, The Athenaeum Library plays host to a vibrant array of events and activities. From music performances to thought-provoking talks, there’s always something happening to engage and inspire. Join fellow book and screen enthusiasts in lively discussions and shared moments of literary delight.
Whilst visitors are welcome, if you’d like to use the library for an extended period you do need to be a member.
Membership prices:
Full: $99
Concession: $89
Junior (up to 16 years): $30
Joe’s review
On a stroll along Collins Street I was delighted to find you could still buy second-hand books in modern Melbourne, but in more upmarket establishments than I remember.
First, we visited the Athenaeum Club, which was a real surprise as I always thought of it as being “members only” exclusive. However, even non-members can now visit their library and – surprise surprise – I bought a classic science fiction novel for only $2 from their re-sale table. A lovely find.
– Joe
Tidbits for visiting Melbourne Athenaeum Library
- Entry is free and visitors are welcome to look around;
- Tea, coffee, Wi-Fi and reading are for members only;
- Explore the table of pre-loved books available for just $2 each;
- Becoming a paid member gives you access to exclusive privileges and discounts;
- Check out the various events held in the library space, including live music and book talks;
- Visit the nearby Old & Rare Bookstore before or after your visit;
- Limited accessibility being located on the first floor, there is one flight of steps;
- The historic elevator is usable, but not wheelchair-friendly;
- Being centrally located various trams and buses service the area, and Flinders St Station is 550 metres away.
Athenaeum Library Melbourne
Level 1, 188 Collins Street
Melbourne Victoria 3000
Telephone: 03 9650 3100
www.melbourneathenaeum.org.au
Opening Hours
Mon/Tues/Thurs: 10am – 6pm
Wed: 10am – 8pm
Fri: 10am – 4pm
Sat: 10am – 2pm
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