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Cowen Heritage Gallery Space at State Library Victoria

Price on request

328 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

4.8 (4181)
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Space ID: 8239
This spectacular 19th-century gallery creates an atmosphere of prestige, refinement and exclusivity. Surrounded by an eclectic mix of original paintings from our vast collection, the large room is a center point between the Redmond Barry Reading Room and La Trobe Reading Room. High ceilings, and ornate finishing's lend to the rooms history, having been built along with the original building, once having housed items from the Melbourne Museum as well as being the original home of the National Gallery of Victoria. The venue is simply classic in every way, and is the space of choice for guests looking to enjoy a lavish dinner, fundraiser, oration or any other elegant event.

Contact State Library Victoria

4.8 (4181)
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Usually responds within 24 hours


Packages, Menus & Offers

Please note, that pricing and inclusions may be subject to change without notice. We recommend confirming with the listing prior to booking to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.


Price Guide

Price TypePrice Per Person (Starting From)
Day Delegate Package (DDP)$ 100
Half Day Delegate Package (HDDP)$ 73
2 Course Menu$ 78
3 Course Menu$ 100
3 Hour Canapes$ 69
3 Hour Beverage Package$ 53

Please note, that pricing may be subject to change without notice. We recommend confirming with the venue prior to booking to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.


Room Layouts & Capacity

Cluster220
Theatre120
Standing400
Banquet220
Cabaret280

Amenities & Extras

$= Additional Cost

Food & Beverage

Coffee / Tea$
Filtered Water
Venue Offers Catering$

Audio Visual Equipment (AV)

Microphone$
Projector
Speakers$
Stage
TV$

Other Amenities & Extras

Accessible
Air Con
Dance Floor
External Music or DJ
Flip Chart
Furniture Hire$
Lighting$
Natural light
Receptionist$
Restroom
Security$
Whiteboard
WiFi

Google iconReviews for State Library Victoria

Krish Dagar

February 26, 2026

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.

Lora Olsen

February 5, 2026

Beautiful interior! Amazing children areas. My kid had a lot of fun doing arts and crafts there. The girls responsible for the kids area were beyond kind and interactive. The building itself is very nicely decorated. All the staff we interacted with were beyond kind and helpful. On one of the upper floors you are able to enjoy the main reading room directly beneath the glass roof.

Ligia

February 12, 2026

The State Library Victoria is an architectural marvel, but its family facilities are a true standout. The children's area is massive, playful, and incredibly comfortable, perfect for a long, relaxing break with kids. I was deeply impressed by the diversity of the collection, with books organized not only by themes but also by a wide variety of languages, making it easy for children from different backgrounds to find something special. Beyond the famous dome, take time to read the informative plaques about the building’s decorative details. Also, don't miss the galleries; the exhibitions are surprising and world-class, offering a quiet escape from the busier Instagram spots. A masterpiece of culture and inclusion in the heart of Melbourne!

Vishnu Vardhan

February 11, 2026

I visited State Library Victoria thinking it’d be just another library, but the moment I stepped into the domed La Trobe Reading Room, I was blown away. The architecture is breathtaking, and it’s such a peaceful, inspiring space, perfect for both reading and photography. 📸 There’s so much to explore: rare books, exhibitions, art collections, and a dedicated kids’ area for reading and play. Free WiFi and computers make it easy to spend some quiet time too. Right in the heart of Melbourne and easy to reach by tram or metro. A true gem for book lovers, families, and anyone who loves capturing stunning spaces.

Jacek Myrcha

February 23, 2026

Its a bit surprising to me that inside the building i could not feel that it is from the 1854 ! Still, it is a great place to see ! I was also surprised that the main reading/learning area was open to public so anyone can enter and take photos (I guess quite disturbing for students). And, funny things, nearly nobody was reading any book 😀 - laptops everywhere 😀.


Venue Hours

Monday10:00am-06:00pm
Tuesday10:00am-06:00pm
Wednesday10:00am-06:00pm
Thursday10:00am-06:00pm
Friday10:00am-06:00pm
Saturday10:00am-06:00pm
Sunday10:00am-06:00pm
Pricing Price on request

Event Types

18th Birthday Party21st Birthday Party30th Birthday Party40th Birthday Party50th Birthday PartyAGMAwards DinnerBaby ShowerBar MitzvahBirthday PartyBreakfastBridal ShowerBucks PartyChristeningChristmas PartyCocktail PartyConcertConferenceCorporate FunctionCorporate OffsiteCorporate RetreatDinnerEnd of Financial Year PartyExhibitionFunctionGala DinnerHens PartyKids PartyLunchMeetingNetworking EventProduct LaunchSchool FormalSeminarTrade ShowTrainingTrivia NightUniversity BallWeddingWedding CeremonyWorkshop