State Library Victoria
328 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Library
•Why you'll love State Library Victoria
- Features incredible event spaces in Australia's oldest and most impressive Library.
- With a meticulously restored heritage design, ceiling skylights, letting natural light flood in.
- With AV facilities and events catering.
State Library Victoria is without a doubt one of the most recognisable landmarks in Melbourne – recently having just undergone an incredible $88.1 redevelopment. Restoring and reopening spaces within the Library, some of which have been closed for over a decade. It is one of the most ambitious projects the Library has undertaken and has resulted in some of Melbourne’s most historic and captivating spaces now available for events. These beautiful spaces include the grand Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, restored to its former 1850s architectural features and paint scheme, as well as fully equipped conference areas like the Conversation Quarter, fitted with state-of-the-art A/V and broadcast technology. The spectacular La Trobe Reading Room, the grand Melbourne stalwart leads something of a double life as an elegant function venue.
This modern update to the State Library opens up a world of event possibilities with the combined use of multiple areas for large-scale programs, multi-space conferences and festival concepts. A true events hub, located in the middle of Melbourne’s central business district. The new Library is an events precinct unparalleled by location, facilities, style and history with beautiful heritage interiors and modern amenities. The library houses a wide range of function spaces and break-out spaces. State Library Victoria has hosted conferences, weddings, opulent dinners, effective workshops, unique launches and countless corporate presentations. It's not difficult to see why, with the high ceilings, old-world sophistication, wooden floorboards and artwork found throughout the venue's many spaces.
Price Guide
| Price Type | Price 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.
Reviews for State Library Victoria
Ligia
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
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.
Dr Alex
A Grand & Iconic Institution, Though Its Heartbeat is Changing The Victoria State Library remains an architectural and intellectual landmark that absolutely deserves a visit. The grand Domed Reading Room is breathtaking, the historic galleries are fascinating, and the atmosphere in the quieter sections is still one of deep reverence for learning. The free exhibitions are consistently well-curated and informative, offering a genuine dose of culture and history. My four-star rating reflects a slight, personal reservation about its evolving public role. While it remains a vital resource for students and researchers, the library's main halls have undeniably recent visit, a significant portion of the crowd was there primarily to "Da Ka" (take photos) and capture Instagram content, often with elaborate posing in the beautiful spaces. While it's wonderful that people appreciate the building's beauty, the quiet hum of study and discovery now competes with the soft chatter of photo directions and the constant, subtle presence of phones and cameras. It can feel less like a hall of knowledge and more like a spectacularly beautiful set. That said, this is more an observation on modern tourism than a critique of the library itself, which continues to offer incredible value. Just be prepared for a bustling, photogenic crowd in the iconic areas. For a truly quiet experience, you need to seek out the less famous reading rooms. It’s still a must-see in Melbourne, whether you come for the books, the exhibitions, or simply to witness its stunning grandeur.
Peter Vrakatselis
I'm not a library type of person but was lookibg to fill the day and figured why not? Besides, there was a protest happening outside so my attention was grabbed easily. I had no background knowledge about the building itself and was really only taking in the exhibitions on show. When I walked into the main reading (I guess you could call it that) room I was already impressed. Especially as they had the original Ned Kelly armour, rifle and boot on display. But entering the dome area was fantastic. From the city street you would imagine that it was as big as it is. It is quite a sight to behold and well worth a visit.
BA
Ashtonishing library! •one of the most beautiful libraries Ive seen! •amazing architecture and interior arrangements •very huge! You can spend whole day browsing and exploring the place •dome is really very pretty! •lots of seating options, with charging docks •children’s area is also very well-organized and nicely structured
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