Established in 1854 as the Melbourne Public Library, The State Library of Victoria , holds the title of Australia’s first public library and is among the earliest free libraries in the world. Renowned for its stunning architecture, peaceful study areas, and rich collections, it stands as a cultural icon and remains a beloved destination for both locals and international visitors.
Today, let’s step inside this historic library and discover the beauty and unique treasures it holds!
State Library of Victoria Address : Google Map
Opening hours: 10 – 18h daily , except some holidays.
The State Library of Victoria sits right in the heart of Melbourne, just next to RMIT University, and draws thousands of visitors each day. That’s why I decided to come early—at 9 AM—to beat the crowd and capture the best photos of this stunning library before it gets too busy.
In front of the library is a bronze statue commemorating Sir Redmond Barry (1813–1880), a judge and founder of the State Library of Victoria. He was also the first and longest-serving Chancellor of the University of Melbourne .
If you head to the left corner of the State Library, you’ll spot the striking statue of Saint George and the Dragon. It was brought to Melbourne after the 1888 Centennial Exhibition and has stood proudly here since 1889.
I got to the State Library at 9 AM with my camera in hand, and by 9:45 I was already queuing up to get some clean, crowd-free shots. This place gets busy fast—no surprise, since it’s one of Melbourne’s top attractions. If you’re planning a visit, I definitely recommend coming early!
Here’s a map of the State Library of Victoria to help you find your way around and explore your favorite areas with ease!
One of the most iconic features of the State Library of Victoria is the the La Trobe Reading Room , also known as the Dome Reading Room — a massive, beautifully designed space on the third floor that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.
As soon as the library opened, I rushed to the 6th floor, hoping to catch the La Trobe Reading Room empty and get the perfect shot. And here’s what I captured:
On the 4th floor of the Dome Reading Room , you’ll find a balcony that offers a panoramic view of the entire hall — an ideal vantage point for capturing impressive photos.
Interestingly, the Dome Reading Room was the first in the world to introduce the 'closed bookshelf' concept — meaning books were stored out of sight and brought out only when requested, unlike the self-service style we’re used to today.
The space is equipped with free Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and cozy desk lamps — making it a great spot to read, work, or study on your laptop.
Right across from the Dome Reading Room is The Ian Potter Queen's Hall — a stunning reading room that’s often overlooked by tourists. If you prefer a quieter space with fewer visitors, this is a much better spot for studying or working than the often-crowded Dome Reading Room.
Ian Potter Queen's Hall , originally known as the Queen's Reading Room , opened in 1856 as the first historic reading room of the State Library of Victoria.
The Ian Potter Queen's Hall blends classic Victorian charm — with high ceilings, stone pillars, and soft natural light — with modern sound and lighting systems, creating a space that feels both nostalgic and vibrant. It’s an ideal spot for lovers of books and art.
I could honestly sit here and work all day without feeling the slightest bit tired. The spacious setting, flooded with natural light and wrapped in near-complete silence, makes it incredibly easy to stay focused for hours.
In the evening, the reading room transforms into a stunning venue for special events, showcasing its historic charm in a whole new light. You can even hire the space for your own event through the State Library of Victoria’s website HERE .
Next, I visited the third reading room at the State Library of Victoria: Redmond Barry Reading Room. This space is named after Sir Redmond Barry, whose statue stands right outside the library entrance, as I mentioned at the beginning of this article.
The Redmond Barry Reading Room is a spacious area designed for both individual and group study. It also holds a large collection of books, magazines, and contemporary publications from the State Library of Victoria.
Right across from the Redmond Barry Reading Room, the Cowen Gallery displays more than 150 artworks carefully selected from the Pictures Collection — Australia’s oldest photographic archive.
Last but not least, you’ll find 'The Quad' on the second floor — a versatile space divided into smaller zones for various purposes: public computer access, a creative studio for recording or making things, reading corners, a kids’ play area, and more.
That’s everything I discovered — along with the photos I captured — during my visit to the State Library of Victoria. Whether you're a book lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet escape in the heart of Melbourne, this iconic library is a must-visit.
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