State Library of Victoria Weddings

A must-see place in Melbourne!

Finest architecture youll see in Melbourne.

Best library

Outstanding Library and one of the most visited libraries in the world. Please see the ' World of the book ' tour on level 4 (The dome), featuring a great Egyptian book tour plus others.

Really very impressive reading room. Absolutely worth a visit. No entrance fee.

Such a beautiful and important building steeped in history and cultural importance.

You could easily spend a whole day here even if you weren't planning on reading any books!

There are multiple study spaces, reading rooms, exhibitions and even a dedicated children's area.

The Ned Kelly armour is presented very well and the layout of the Jerilderie letter is worth a read.

A visit to the Dome is a must and looking down on the reading room is inspiring!

There are regular exhibitions which are expertly curated and presented.

Free to visit and in the centre of the city, not to be missed if you're in Melbourne visiting.

A beautiful library in the heart of the city. We dropped by before beginning our day and to avoid the crowd and disturbing too many people.

The library is conveniently located near multiple tram stations, making it easy for visitors to access.

The library itself is a magnificent building, with a stunning domed reading room that is sure to inspire anyone who enters it. There are small exhibits around the library so be sure to have a walk around!

Come here specially, very good place

I've put a lot of artistic library eyes.
If you come to Melbourne, please come and visit us.

Such a beautiful library in the middle of the city. Head up to the highest floor for the observatory deck!

Really like looking books at the second floor

The State Library Victoria , located in Melbourne, established in the year 1845 , in my opinion, is a must see locale for everyone.The library has a large collection of books, manuscripts, and other items that chronicle Melbourne's and Australia's cultural history. For scholars, students, and members of the general public, the library also provides a range of services and resources .The library has a really calm and relaxing ambience. The architecture of the building is simply mind blowing with beautiful domes.
There are staffs all around those who are really knowledgeable about the each and every single thing who are very keen to explain to us.Also this place is a perfect location for students to do there study and research . Overall, such a great place

Lovely library, the centrepiece is the main hall. An iconic view. Do stay quiet throughout your visit, for the sake of others.

For fast visit, go to Dome. Best scene over there

During my time living in Melbourne CBD, I had the opportunity to visit the state library multiple times. I thoroughly enjoy going there to work, as well as peruse the library books. The Dome section happens to be my favourite.

One of my favourite places in the city. Spaces for resting, writing, reflection.

The ladies there are helpful and lovley

Amazing place with a great history and interesting building. You can go to the top and take excellent pictures of the building. This is a very large public building with a huge selection of books and other items for you to enjoy.
This is one of Melbournes attractions so if you like something different and historic, this is one of the places to visit.

The library exterior was stunning. And the infrastructure was good. I have seen many movies being shot here. Art pieces are for display In a floor in the library where the ornament used by the Australian pristine r Ned Kelly is preserved. And there were tonnes of books available.There was a book exhibition going on where lot of ancient books and form of texts were for display. Not sure if it is kept permanently. Check on the website for more details before visiting. Worthy place to visit.

Love the library, always clean, tidy and full of history. Sometime just love to sit here to chill and do my editing. Very relaxing, wifi and power aren't a problem here. Really a mindful perfect place to be here.

This is a must visit place in Melbourne for people who love books and culture. I have visited Melbourne several times but always missed this place. I finally visited this time and I desperately wanted to live in Melbourne.

Oasis in the heart of Melbourne CBD.... This is a hectic and busy place. The lawns on the outside are a meeting and gathering place - many pockets of groups, both young and old. The inside houses a big modernized room for working. Very busy. Hectic. Programs seems very current and leading edge. Lots of to and fro'ing. BUT still conducive to working, some how. If you like libraries - check out Nat Lib in Canberra and State Lib of NSW. I gave 5 stars because it is an oasis right in the middle of busy Melbourne CBD - it is close to everything.

Shot a wedding video here on July 1st 2023. Pretty nice location for a wedding :)

EXCELLENT:
-historic, iconic location.
-beautiful interior and atmosphere.

NOT-SO-GOOD:
-reading room surfaces have not been dusted so there are deep layers of dust where the bride and groom were formally married (on the desk surfaces there is dust caked everywhere). Very visible so I'm not sure why it's not cleaned away.
-toilets in the front function room are poorly maintained with partially attached lid. Someone might have an accident on them one day unfortunately

This was arguably the best looking library Ive ever been to. There are plenty of desks for self studying. Massive collections of books to read. Outstanding views on every floor of the library. Its basically a museum within a library but was done very well. The only thing to note is that it may take quite awhile getting up and down as there are limited elevators availabilities. Definitely worth a visit if youre into something more on the quiet side

one of my favorite places in Melbourne, more than being touristy, it is a place where you can study or simply be able to read a good book in a comfortable and quiet way.

Beautiful old reading room and collection of very old books and scrolls on display. Beautiful dome and loved the reverent peace and quiet.

Beautiful, worth visiting!

Wow

Stunning interior. If you visit Melbourne, this library really worth to visit. Stunning interior.
You can get the iconic photo my going up to the highest floor of the building.

One of the must-visit places if you're in Melbourne!
A free, open library reminiscent of Harry Potter. With its high arched dome, antique table, and green lamp, it feels like visiting Hogwarts. Exhibits are also displayed on each floor, so you can see them.

Amazing place with a great history and interesting building. You can go to the dome on level 4 and then go further up to level 5 and 6 at the top and take excellent pictures of the building. This is a very large public building with a huge selection of books and other items for you to enjoy.
This is one of Melbournes attractions so if you like something different and historic, this is one of the places to visit.

Such a good place to spend a time in a cold rainy day this building is permeated with history and majesty! The architecture is amazing, it's more than just a library, it's like a real historical museum

Very pretty and impressive library. Take the elevator to the 6th floor and go down the stairs.

This spot is a wonderful hub for studying or remote work, and it also serves as a convenient meeting point, especially for families. The addition of a dedicated children's area, complete with a small play area and reading nook, makes it an ideal place for parents with kids. Notably, the children's area is thoughtfully equipped with restrooms and a nappy changing room for added convenience.

For international travellers, the unique dome design of the place is sure to catch your attention. Moreover, they provide free water refill stations, an economical way to stay hydrated. With plenty of seating available, it's a great spot to take a break and relax. Whether you're looking to study, work, or simply enjoy the ambience, this versatile place has something for everyone.

Very nice place. Nice to see the library being used by all kinds of people, both children and adults. It will be a living place with all the books.

It would be nice if they let you borrow books

The library exterior was stunning. And the infrastructure was good. I have seen many movies being shot here. Art pieces are for display In a floor in the library where the ornament used by the Australian pristine r Ned Kelly is preserved. And there were tonnes of books available.There was a book exhibition going on where lot of ancient books and form of texts were for display. Not sure if it is kept permanently. Check on the website for more details before visiting. Worthy place to visit.

This library is free to enter, has a beautiful environment, and a very cultural atmosphere. It has a large collection of books, so you can stay there all day if you like to read.

This library has a history of over 200 years. Wooden chairs and desks were showing us their history. Contemporary people and trande setters work on i-pad in old places was a meeting between modern times and history. Many people were studying hard in this wonderful place. They were also one of the great sight.

very clean and pretty

Too much walk/work? Tea got my back!

Amazing must be on everyone's to-do list..

A free checkin place for you when visiting Melbourne

Wonderful, beautiful and epic building!

The best reference library in Victoria if not in Australia.
Pity it doesn't treat its staff in the same manner as its reputation

Melbourne Victoria Library is one of the largest libraries in Australia, located in the bustling city center of Melbourne. The library is famous all over the world for its magnificent architecture and colorful collection. Its architecture combines classical and modern elements, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

The library has complete facilities and provides a comfortable environment for reading and studying. Whether you're looking for research resources, reading a novel, browsing the newspaper or attending a cultural event, there's something for you here. The library also hosts a variety of lectures, exhibitions and workshops, allowing you to gain cultural and intellectual insight.

It is worth mentioning that the special collections department in the library is rich in ancient books, manuscripts and precious documents, which is a treasure-like existence for history lovers and researchers.

In addition to the library itself, its surrounding environment is also full of vitality. You can take a stroll in the nearby park and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the city. In addition, the library is located in the center of Melbourne, and there are many restaurants, cafes and shopping places nearby, adding more fun to your cultural journey.

In short, the Victorian Library in Melbourne is an environment that combines history, culture and learning, whether you are a local resident or a tourist, it is worth visiting.

This is one the biggest and a beautiful library in the heart of Melbourne. We dropped by before beginning our day and to avoid the crowd and disturbing too many people.

The library is conveniently located near multiple tram stations, making it easy for visitors to access.

The library itself is a magnificent building, with a stunning domed reading room that is sure to inspire anyone who enters it. There are small exhibits around the library, so be sure to have a walk around!

Good and well taken care of library

WOW what an amazing old building. Loved it. Viewed the reading room from the top. The dome ceiling is amazing. Brought back memories of when I visited libraries at Uni.

Beautiful piece of art and culture.
Vintage design

Need to go to dome to take this picture of the state library

Absolutely stunning library thats a great place for those looking to get work done (power sockets and conducive work desks available). Also features interesting exhibitions and amazing architecture:)

Its super beautiful. There is a place outside where you can play chess, make friends, and compare your chess skills. There is a discussion space inside and there are many people. It feels like a creative place.

Make sure to catch Ned Kelly

It is an iconic and historic library of Victoria state, a recommended place for everyone. It serves different types of visitors: students, tourists, artists, architects, photographers, etc.

The library holds a great collection of books and exhibits. It also offers a wide range of desks setup for diverse study preferences.

The architect and interior design are top notch. You will be definitely impressed. The building exterior is also updated recently with color lights for some special events.

Hopefully the opening time will be extended more in the future.

Excellent collection of books. Great reading spaces, children's books and reading to children sessions. Architectural features are a wonderful bonus.

It is a very historic building with a central space with a vaulted ceiling, which is very spectacular. Tourists are constantly coming and going. Some of the locals were using it to study.

THIS IS HOW LIBRARIES SHOULD BE. If I am living near the area, I would always stay in this place and just read and read. This library looks like something that is taken out of a Harry Potter Novel. It is just majestic and awe-inspiring.

Most importantly, it is easy to visit this place, just ride the free tram and walk to here. It is definitely worth the visit.

Such a beautiful place!

Very nice and helpful service at the entrance!

Gorgeous library. It's a place you'd want to spend all your time here. You can take an elevator to head to the higher level and get your photos but for working and studying, there are only levels 2 and 3.

Biggest library Ive ever been to. Amazing view wow

State Library Victoria is a truly magnificent library. It's clean, well-organized, and the signage is clear. The staff are always friendly and helpful. It's a popular spot, both in the garden and the reading rooms, so it can get a bit noisy. If you prefer a quieter reading environment, bringing headphones is a good idea. Despite the occasional noise, it's a grand and welcoming place where you can immerse yourself in books, history, and knowledge. It's a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for libraries and their rich offerings.

Visited the library on the 18th of Sept 2023. I am very impressed after learning that it was designed and built in 1856, and the great restoration done to modernize it, making it a great place to learn and visit.

You definitely need to visit the Dome. Simply fantastic design and the impressive dome and interior. You could walk up the stairs or lift to have a view of the dome and the reading areas.

A must visit venue while visiting Melbourne.

The most amazing and beautiful library we ever been to! Highly recommend visiting if youre in Melbourne! The architecture is stunning. It feels like Im in a Harry Potter film.

Very nice view inside, very clean and tidy....it's nice to come here and enjoy the vibes by reading books or just browsing with your laptop / tab.....

Gorgeous building

A must-see tourist attraction in Melbourne! ! !
You can visit inside for free

We visited this beautiful library and enjoyed our visit very much. Besides the dome area, there are several other library sections, including art exhibits. The dome area not only has grand architecture but also well used old chairs and tables. A must visit in Melbourne.

1854Joseph Reed

1856

Nice place. You can read, study, or sight seeing

Amazing place, beautiful building

Architecturally Stunning!

I've been here, it's really great. I will definitely come back!!!

Beautiful architecture. Thankfully, most of the people visiting, while I was there, were aware that this building is a library, and managed to keep noise levels down. They have a children's section where there are educational toys for kids to play with.

The State Library of Victoria is a Baroque-style building, majestic and majestic. The round dome makes it even more majestic and noble. It is like a palace of supreme knowledge. It has countless books and an art gallery inside. The exhibits can be appreciated for free. Even if you come here I dont study, but I walk around quietly and my temperament also improves.

A great library and exhibition space

Helpful staff, beautiful old building. Good way to wait out the Melbourne rain.

I had a great experience here. I will definitely come back to this place if I have the chance!!

My favorite place.
They have free Wi-Fi, which is great for working on your computer. Even if you do not have a computer, you can also rent one. I recommend this place because it's an environment where you can concentrate.

One of the biggest city library in Melbourne with mesmerized architecturally interior. The dome area is kinda spacious. Nice to take picture on the 3rd floor. There is an art exhibitions section as well.

However, the internet connection here is not good enough for me. But overall, this is a good place to sit and read your book or do stuff with your laptop.

I like the view of the library

Beautiful library

I feel great to be here. I will come back to this place!!!

Fun place - stunning - see the dome from the 4 the 4 th - ask any of the the staff to help they are great - I need to tell about the toilets - they are super clean - well done the cleaners

Wow is the first word that I would use to describe this library.

It brings most others to shame.
There is just a huge place to read and get work done.
And there was even a hidden chess board where my partner and I had a intense game of chess before an onlooker came and told my partner she had mate in 2

Visited this beautiful library during my visit to Melbourne. No ticket needed, its completely free, which is a huge plus. Very accessible by trams or train (walking distance to the train station) with many shops and malls nearby.

They have small galleries inside, which is also beautiful. Other than sightseeing, you are also free to sit around and read the available books inside (which is a lot). Both the inside and the outside are beautiful and worth a snap.

Me and my wife were invited to a friend's son's wedding at this amazing place. The food was delicious and the staff were very professional. The library is a work of art inside. I would highly recommend this beautiful place to family and friends.

Best library to explore and study. Vast space, they have even managed to get charging ports into the large reading rooms vintage desks.

Good wifi and close to food places etc for study breaks.

I thought it was the most beautiful library in the world.
In addition, I envied the people who studied or read books in the library.
Even though there were many visitors, it was quietly and well maintained by guard.
If I had time, I also wanted to read the book.
The elevator to the top floor was a bit inconvenient because the waiting line was long.
As a country of immigrant origin, the Shakespeare stained glass was impressive.

I visited the State Library recently for a function in its Conversation Room. A beautiful function space with each wall a different style, creating quite a striking impression. Facilities are clean and nice.
The library space itself is beautiful, set under the huge dome. Green brass lamps and reading desks, plus books are free to access for a quiet read.
Climb the stairs for a magnificent view looking down into the library.

Beautiful building. Excellent customer service
More than 5 million books the choose from

Good place to visit when in Melbourne

The Hebrew exibit was informative and opened my eyes to the reach Jewish people had in medieval Europe. The exibit displayed the joy and pain a people have endured for thousands of years.

Absolutely gorgeous library
I can stay here all day!

The State Library is an iconic place to visit - even if you are not a bookworm! The architecture is absolutely stunning. We joined the free World of Books tour which contained many gems from around the globe. Our guide, Wendy, was extremely knowledgable and gave a brilliant tour. Plus the Lego version of the library is so cool. The detail is awesome!

If I was able to study here, I wouldve graduated with a 7.0 GPA

Magnificent library with special exhibitions from time to time

Lovely building, maintained the original decor under the dome. Lots to see. That are elevators at the far end which skip the crowds or you can start for level 1 near the bathrooms.

A really great place to visit

spectacular architecture

STUNNING.
What a beautiful building, well maintained and so proud of its history. I wanted to spend hours here.

Probably the nicest public library that exists in the world!

Iconic place to visit in Melbourne. No tickets needed. Definitely worthy for some valuable snaps.

Wow. Beautiful piece of history. Was fun exploring around the building, there is a lot to see. Its very picturesque. I will be back to do some work here.

Visited this library on the 9th of Jan 2024 and it was majestic. Every levels are full of inspiring places. This gives the standard about how library should be. Especially the Dome and exhibitions around dome is must visit.

Great place for a visit. Interesting exhibitions. Great place to come and study, relax and learn. One of the best genealogy collections in Australia! Ned Kelly's armour. I could go on and on!

Many people have already praised it highly, so I have nothing to add, but it's a wonderful library. You can go around in a short amount of time, and you can also take your time. The location is also convenient. If you are in the area, we recommend that you stop by, even if you are not interested in libraries. Admission is free.

It was quiet and had a lot to see, including free exhibitions. There is also a children's library, so it seemed like a good place to take a break with your kids while traveling.

Magnificent library with cavernous main section. Not sure if it's the best place to hit the books as it's teeming with tourists. The library is easily accessible as it's located along Swanston St and a stone's throw from CBD shops and RMIT.

Whilst in Melbourne, I visited the @library_vic to meet a friend. I had a look around the library and its a huge place to read, research and have quiet time. I was amazed to find historical artefacts of Ned Kelly including the coat, boots and guns used at the Siege of Glenrowan. It was also a good place for parents to meet since theres a cafe and also a great kids zone, with heaps of books, building blocks and craft

No tickets nothing, we simply walked in and the lady was really nice to guide us properly on where to start and that was an amazing library and loads to explore. If youre a student or to work thats your go! Cheers in advance

There is a lot to see on each floor and the views are different.

2023-01
pretty
If you come to Melbourne, you have to go here.

Haven't been to a library in many years, was encouraged to go back by Instagram's the Library Grown Up. The architecture & dome is so beautiful from every angle, if you can climb up to the top, or take the lift for the view. Also don't miss Ned Kelly's armour on display. You can see the bullet marks that took him down.

Worth a visit just to see inside the dome. Excellent library to study or research.

It's one of my favorite places in the city. The building is fantastic, have services such as internet access, books, computers, and meeting rooms. It is a very quiet and cozy place, it is open every day from 10.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m.

State Library Victoria is so beautiful one of the places you must visit in Melbourne

This is my second time here, and I still think the library is so beautiful!

Beautiful library. Loved it!

Beautiful~~~

Love the ambience of this place

I visited the Victoria Library last Saturday and was impressed with the extensive collection of books and resources available. The staff were helpful and knowledgeable, making it easy to navigate the library and find what I was looking for. The atmosphere was peaceful and conducive to studying or reading. I liked very much that they allocated sections for study and work with free and fast internet and free computers. It is really a wonderful gesture from the Victorian government.

A must visit when in Melbourne, peaceful, quiet, historical, educational. Gorgeous historical building with lots of spaces to explore with a free exhibition. Always diverse group of people at the front of the building on benches, grass, playing chess. Awesome vibe. Loved Melbourne space.

Great public place to visit and see what the citizens value

State Library Victoria is a bookworm's paradise! The library vibes are a mix of old-school charm and modern comfort. You can get lost in the stacks, discover hidden nooks for reading, or just soak in the literary atmosphere. The majestic reading room is like Hogwarts for grown-ups, and the Dome is an Insta-worthy masterpiece. Whether you're a hardcore reader or just want a quiet escape, this place is a top pick. Grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let the reading adventures begin!

One of the most beautiful libraries I have ever seen

Very impressive

Library was beautiful, well kept and a really good place to stay if you are looking for a quite place to study

When visiting Melbourne, the State Library Victoria needs to be at the top of the list.
Australia's oldest library and one of the first free libraries in the world, this extensive and impressive building has been looking after the reading needs of Victorians for almost 170 years.
While there are many library and gallery spaces on the large site, the La Trobe Reading Room is truly the icing on the cake.
While many quietly study, you can explore the library shelves here and slowly make your way up to the very top of this huge domed space.
We were also fortunate to bump into Judy, the Philanthropy and Brand Manager as we were making our way around the reading room.
Here are some photos of our visit...
Do yourself a favour and spend some quiet time here.
We will be back soon :-)

State library of Melbourne very grand and beautiful inside. I was standing in awe of the preservation that goes into maintaining the table that each has a name to it and at the same time served as a museum exhibits while it is a fully functional library on the basement. I am very amazed on how they do that which is great.

beautiful library If you want to take pictures, take the elevator. and walked down the curved spiral staircase, going up one floor at a time.

Good spot to study with friends, and probably the most beautiful library I've seen. Tables are great and you can usually find an available spot. Unfortunately not open past 6pm (I think?) so can't visit in the evening :(

A place where past, present and future coexist. A place where you can enjoy art with plenty to see and modern works of art.

Such Beautiful Dome Library.

The State Library is iconic to visit! The architecture is stunning. We joined a free tour which contained gems. Our guide, Wendy, was knowledgable and gave a great tour. The detail is awesome!

Amazing place to indulge in books and technology. We had our official meeting here with food and beverage facilities. It was all amazing.

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Spectacular library. The La Trobe Dome reading area and rare book collection were breathtaking.

Beautiful place to visit

Love the architecture here

The library is huge.
There are many books to read.

Ive always thought the main reading area is like a movie set. I was lucky to see Ned Kelly's armour on display!

An amazing place to explore.