Unexpected Finds on a State Library of Victoria Free Walking Tour
Uncover more than literary treasures on a free guided tour of the State Library of Victoria, showcasing its most iconic spaces and collections.
Walk through grand reading rooms, explore gallery exhibitions, and more on a range of State Library tours where passionate volunteers bring the library’s past to life.
Add this one to your Melbourne itinerary list and experience the State Library’s historical charm and architectural beauty firsthand.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits and accessibility advice for State Library Victoria
STATE LIBRARY TOURS
Led by enthusiastic volunteers, the History of the Library Tour provides a behind-the-scenes look at one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks. Limited to 10 participants per session, it’s an immersive experience that celebrates the library’s heritage and cultural importance.
From the grandeur of the heritage reading rooms to the artistic displays in The Ian Potter Queens Hall, the one-hour tour offers a unique glimpse into Melbourne’s literary and cultural heritage.
Uncover more secrets of State Library on the Dome to Catacombs Tour, a captivating exploration of one of Melbourne’s most iconic institutions. Ascend to the dizzying heights of the Dome in the La Trobe Reading Room before descending into the depths of the Library’s hidden catacombs.
Or, step into a world where books come to life at the World of the Book Tour in the Dome Galleries. Experience a visual feast of over 300 rare and exclusive items that showcase the artistry and evolution of book design, production, and illustration throughout history.
Each of the free guided tours has portable hearing loop units available for visitors who are hard of hearing.
Related reading: Visit Melbourne Town Hall on a Free Guided Tour
History of the Library Tour
We recently explored the State Library of Victoria on an incredibly interesting tour to learn all about its heritage.
The architecture of the building has to be seen! From the enormous columns at the main entrance to the exquisite domed roof of the octagonal reading room on the ground floor.
The original building was mooted in 1851 by a 10 thousand pound donation from the Governor of Victoria who had a great belief in books and education.
Interestingly, the first batch of books in the library cost around three thousand pounds and when compared to the building cost, they were very expensive! In consequent years other buildings and extensions were added giving a total of 23 buildings on a 2-acre site.
I was also impressed to hear the Library holds every copy of newspapers ever printed in Metropolitan Melbourne and country Victoria.
I’d recommend the library tour to others, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it.
– Rob
Visiting the State Library
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the State Library of Victoria is a must-visit destination in Melbourne. We love that the Library offers a unique experience, celebrating tradition while embracing modernity.
Anyone can access the Library for free, and explore various spaces including a bookshop, cafes, and studios available for booking. Or learn about the library’s history and vision, and discover the range of services, scholarships, and awards offered.
Visitors can benefit from free Wi-Fi access throughout the library premises. Computers for general use, including internet browsing, are also available for those who may need access to digital resources.
History of the Library Tour
On the free History of the Library tour, which lasted about 60 minutes, we learned a lot and heard many intriguing stories about the history of the buildings.
I was most taken by the impressive reading hall, which was originally the Library and is now named Ian Potter Queens Hall, named after Queen Victoria. Back then it was a free place of learning for the people of Melbourne and has also encompassed the National Gallery of Victoria, the Victoria Museum and what we now know as Scienceworks. This area still has the original tables and chairs from 160+ years ago, incredible!
This library was the first lending library in the world! Now, it is only a reference library and has over 5 million books in its collection, some of which are stored on-site while the rest are stored at the University of Ballarat, and are brought on-site when requested.
We enjoyed the Ned Kelly exhibition, which features his complete original suit of armour that he wore during battles with the Victoria Police. Numerous pieces of the suit are on loan from private collectors and Museums Victoria.
– Diane
Cowen Gallery
Explore the Cowen Gallery, a beautifully lit space in State Library Victoria, showcasing over 40 artworks that celebrate Victoria’s rich history. With highlights including Juan Davila’s “Churchill National Park” and historical landscapes, it’s a marvellous essay on Melbourne and Victoria perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Pauline Gandel’s Children’s Quarter
Step into a magical realm of discovery and fun at the Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter within State Library Victoria. Created with support from the Gandel Foundation, this beautiful space is dedicated to children and offers a stimulating environment for reading, learning, and play.
Featuring a captivating two-storey children’s castle, cosy reading nooks, and an extensive collection of children’s books, the Quarter ensures an enriching experience for all young visitors.
Side Trip
Nearby activities to make the most of your outing include Old Melbourne Gaol and the vast shopping precinct at Melbourne Central. For dining nearby, we’ve enjoyed RoboMao Chinese restaurant (read our review here) and also Stalactites Greek restaurant (read our review here).
Entry and Accessibility
Open from 10 am to 6 pm daily, the State Library invites visitors to experience a world of knowledge and inspiration within its iconic walls.
Entrance ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets are located in the library. Wheelchair hire is available as well.
Various venues and spaces within the library are equipped with permanent audio hearing loops.
Dedicated assistive technology workstations are available for visitors with vision, mobility, literacy, or cognitive requirements.
An Access and Inclusion Librarian is available to assist visitors with disabilities, by providing information, referrals, and assistance as needed. Phone on 03 8664 7005 or speak to staff in the Redmond Barry Reading Room or Quad Information Centre when you arrive.
Tidbits For Booking State Library Tours
- Open from 10 am to 6 pm daily, free entry;
- Book one of the free State Library tours for a one-hour guided experience;
- If you haven’t booked a tour, head to the Cowen Gallery anytime, it’s a MUST;
- If you’ve got the kids with you, stop at Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter;
- Free wifi is available, and computers for general use;
- Visit the bookshop and two cafes on site;
- Entrance ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, wheelchair hire, and hearing loops are available for those who need them;
- An Access and Inclusion Librarian is available on 03 8664 7005;
- Various trams and buses service the area, and Melbourne Central Station is directly opposite the Library.
State Library of Victoria
328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
(03) 8664 7000
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