If you want to know more about Victoria and its historical past, and gain insight into its rich cultural past and have passion for Books, then just head straight to the State Library of Victoria with a collection of over 2 Million books, periodicals, and material pertaining to world of art, music and performing arts. This 19th Century magnificent building stand proudly at the corner of Swanston, Russell and La Trobe streets adjoining the famous RMIT University campus. This Library was established in the year 1854 and is one of the iconic Landmark of Melbourne.
The front grassy lawns of this Library are speckled with some outstanding sculptures. Right at the entrance is Mr Justice Sir Redmond Barry, Q.C sculpture standing on high pedestal who was one of the founders of this State Library. Then there are Joan of Arc’s statues along with Charles La Trobe’s in the Library Forecourt. It is a popular hang-out place for visitors, localities, and students alike, a common site here with people relaxing on the forecourt lawns, or simply chilling out at one of the benches or lying down on grassy turf while enjoying their favorite novel is in itself worth watching.
Eatables are not permitted inside the building premise, hence use locker facility at the entrance to keep your belongings for a nominal fee. On entering this Library you will find a large atrium with hundreds of well laid out neatly organized book shelves along with comfortable seating arrangements… this place has free public Wi-Fi facility. You can always gather some quick information at the Information Centre and head straight for your favorite books. There are desktop terminals available in case if you are not carrying your personal laptop to access online books and manuals. You can’t miss the splendid Victorian architectural interiors of this building with high ceilings and provision for natural light. There are thousands of books on varied subjects, just pick a book of your choice and occupy a table and enjoy your readings in pin drop silence. The main highlight of this building is La Trobe’s reading room with high domed ceiling.
For kids there is a separate area where they can spend their time playing games or entertain themselves with multiple options available at their disposal. Upper levels of this library houses large spacious Art Galleries with collection of incredible paintings and sculptures.
Keep on browsing from Shelf to Shelf for books, Pictures, Maps and rare manuscripts pertaining to Rich Victorian heritage spread over past 150 years. Open all seven days except for few public holidays this library is treasure trove for knowledge seekers. Make best use of this place while you visit Melbourne and get to know about its rich cultural heritage past. Just visit this place once and see how time flies by while you start reading books…!
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