Melbourne Athenaeum Library: Find History & Literary Treasures
Whether you’re a bookworm, a cinephile, or a music enthusiast, unleash your curiosity with the literary wonders that abound at the Melbourne Athenaeum Library.
As you wander through the bustling Melbourne streets, a quiet haunt can be found on the first floor of the Melbourne Athenaeum. Here, a unique library with historic charm and a diverse collection of over 30,000 print, digital, and audiobooks beckons to be explored.
It’s free for non-members to have a look around, and visitors are very welcomed by knowledgeable volunteers and staff. Let the pages of history come alive as you explore the vast collection, attend captivating events, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for literature and culture.
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Melbourne Athenaeum Library and Reading Room
From quality new releases to timeless classics, the Melbourne Athenaeum Library offers a treasure trove of knowledge and entertainment waiting to be unearthed.
Step into the Library and Reading Room, where the scent of aged books mingles with the soft rustling of pages turning. Here, you could easily spend an afternoon lost in the pages of a gripping crime novel or delving into the captivating world of biographies.
Visitors are welcomed with open arms to partake in the offerings of the Athenaeum Library. Feel the rich history of the institution resonate in every corner as you soak in the ambiance of its antiquity. It’s great to have dedicated staff and volunteers there to guide you through the shelves and assist you in uncovering hidden literary gems.
A table of pre-loved library books features a range of treasured tales, for just $2 each!
On an outing with my brother Joe, a short walk from Fed Square took us to the Athenaeum Theatre and Library in Collins St. And how wonderful that it’s free entry into this Old Worldly Library.
Such a pleasure to see the books on old-fashioned bookshelves and lots of categories to explore. It’s a peaceful, inviting space with tables and chairs for people to sit and peruse or read, and a coffee/tea station. However, you do need to be a member of the Library to be able to use the self-serve coffee and tea.
To enter the Library we walked up the stairs to the first floor. We later discovered there is a beautiful antique lift, in perfect working order but because of its age it is not wheelchair compliant. Also, the doors to enter/leave the lift need to pushed aside and are quite heavy, so if assistance is needed just ask the friendly librarians. Unfortunately, the lift to go up to the first floor from the ground floor is not easily visible, so you do need to look around or ask someone.
Such a beautiful old building. We loved it.
– Terrie
Become a Member
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 costs
Full: $99
Concession: $89
Junior (up to 16 years): $30
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 casual visitors are welcome;
- 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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