World of the Book Tour

Tour this one-of-a-kind exhibition and chart the rise, and restyling, of the beloved book through the history of book design, production and illustration from the Middle Ages to today.

Now in its 20th year, Australia’s longest running and most popular book exhibition features more than 300 rare, remarkable and historically significant items from the State Collection. But most of all, it’s a celebration of the unique place books have in our hearts and minds.

Travel through the history of the book and marvel at:

• An illuminated manuscript made for a Medici,
• Fan art inspired by Andy Griffiths's Treehouse series,
• One of the oldest printed texts in the world, the Hyakumantō Darani of Japan,
• The evolution of manga – from Hokusai to Astro Boy; and much more.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition themselves after the tour ends.

The World of the book exhibition is on Level 4 of the Dome Galleries, overlooking the La Trobe Reading Room in the heart of the Library.

By registering to attend or purchasing a ticket to a State Library Victoria event, you agree to our Conditions of Entry.