World of the Book Tour

World of the Book Tour

Join this free guided tour which showcases some of the rarest and most significant works from the Library’s rare books collection.

By State Library Victoria

Select date and time

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM AEST

Location

State Library Victoria

328 Swanston Street Meet in Hansen Hall Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia

About this event

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.

World of the Book features more than 300 never-before-exhibited items and celebrates the unique place books have in our hearts and minds.

Marvel at early editions of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, rare editions of Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There, and works by pioneering 18th century mathematician Émilie du Châtelet, acquired through State Library Victoria’s Women Writers Fund.

Discover books on astronomy from as far back as 336 CE, the world of shadow puppetry and artist books designed to be literally unreadable.

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.

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State Library Victoria

Welcome to State Library Victoria, the oldest public library in Australia, and one of the first free public libraries in the world. With almost 170 years of history, the Library has become a must-do destination for visitors to Melbourne with a passion for books, history and beautiful spaces.

Located in the heart of the city opposite Melbourne Central, the Library is a vibrant hub of activity within Melbourne’s knowledge and arts precinct, with a packed program of free exhibitions, events, and activities all year round.

With free Wi-Fi and storage lockers, food and beverage options, books, magazines and music to enjoy, dedicated quiet zones and a beautiful forecourt to take in the sunshine, the Library is an excellent base for tourists and a home away from home.

Art lovers, history buffs, holidaying families and tranquillity seekers will all find something to love at the Library. Its spectacular spaces, including the iconic domed reading room, house thousands of items reflecting Victoria's diverse cultural and social history.

Be sure to see Ned Kelly's armour, pore over rare books, first editions and significant artworks, and join a free tour to learn about the building's fascinating history. Come and experience the magic of the State Library Victoria - an essential stop on your Melbourne itinerary.

Open daily.

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Free