State Library Victoria Tours

State Library Victoria Tours
State Library Victoria Tours
State Library Victoria Tours
State Library Victoria Tours
State Library Victoria Tours
+3
Gallery showing 5 of 8 images, 3 more available

About

Join these exclusive guided tours and experience State Library Victoria's heritage spaces before the doors open to the public.

Guided by State Library Victoria storytellers, embark on a journey through one of Australia's most magnificent spaces. From the Library's iconic Dome and hidden spaces to its magnificent galleries and latest exhibition, Creative Acts.

What's Available

2 features
Quality Tourism Accreditation

Available Tours

State Library Victoria Unlocked: A Guided Tour Before the Doors Open

State Library Victoria Unlocked: A Guided Tour Before the Doors Open

Join an exclusive morning guided tour and experience State Library Victoria's grand Dome and hidden spaces before the doors open to the public. Advance bookings essential. Ever heard of the 'Chief Shusher'? Wonder what's buried beneath the Library's floors? Or gazed up at the library Dome before the crowds? On this early access tour, you will explore the Library's magnificent heritage spaces and catacombs hidden beneath the library floors, discover the treasure trove of original card catalogues, and uncover one of Melbourne's most infamous relationships between Library founder Redmond Barry and the bushranger Ned Kelly. Find a rare moment of quiet in the iconic Dome, soak in the architecture, and even take a seat where the 'Shusher' once reigned.

$39 per person

World of the Book Tour

World of the Book Tour

World of the Book features more than 400 rare, remarkable and historically significant items from the State Collection, each with a unique story that highlights the cultural and emotional impact books have had across generations. From the artistry of book design and production to the evolution of illustration, this tour charts the history of books from c. 2000 BCE to today. On this tour, you can browse rare editions from beloved authors, including first editions of Jane Austen, Agatha Christie, Octavia Butler and more. Learn about the Australian international blockbuster that outsold Sherlock Holmes, and Melbourne's Sugar and Snails Press – one of the earliest publishers of non-sexist children's books. Get up close to one of the oldest printed texts in the world, the Hyakumantō Darani of Japan, as well as 17th- and 18th-century printed and manuscript amulets and talismans from Europe and Mongolia. Please meet your guide at Hansen Hall, located in the Swanston Street Welcome Zone.

Reviews & Ratings

Krish Dagar

Krish Dagar

Google review

The State Library of Victoria is an incredible place! It’s free and open to everyone, which makes it so accessible. There are a few cozy cafés inside, and exhibitions are always happening, so there’s something interesting to check out every time. The architecture is absolutely mind-blowing grand, stunning, and perfect for photographers. At the entrance, there’s a giant chess set where visitors can play with oversized pieces, which adds a fun and interactive touch. The library is quiet and peaceful, making it ideal for reading, working, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Whether you want to explore, relax, or get some work done, this library is a perfect spot to spend a few hours.

Where you'll be

328 Swanston Street

Melbourne VIC 3000