What is the primary role of State Library Victoria?

State Library Victoria serves as the state library for Victoria, Australia, located in Melbourne. It functions as a public library, providing access to its extensive collections and resources for the community.

When was the State Library Victoria established, and what was its original name?

The State Library Victoria was established in 1854. Initially, it was known as the Melbourne Public Library.

What is the historical significance of State Library Victoria in Australia?

State Library Victoria is recognized as Australia's oldest public library and was one of the first free public libraries established anywhere in the world.

How does the library rank in terms of visitor numbers and usage?

As of 2023, State Library Victoria is the busiest public library in Australia and ranks as the third busiest library globally, indicating its significant reach and popularity.

Where is the State Library Victoria situated, and how has its physical footprint changed over time?

The library is located in Melbourne's central business district on Swanston Street. Since its establishment, it has expanded to occupy the entire city block bordered by La Trobe, Russell, and Little Lonsdale streets.

What types of materials are held within the State Library Victoria's collection?

The library's collection contains over five million items, encompassing not only books but also manuscripts, paintings, maps, photographs, and newspapers, with a special focus on materials pertaining to Victoria.

Can you name some significant historical figures or events represented in the library's collection?

The collection features items related to the European founders of Melbourne, John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner, explorer James Cook's folios, and artifacts connected to Ned Kelly, including his distinctive armour and the original Jerilderie Letter.

Who were the key individuals instrumental in the decision to build the library complex?

The decision to construct the combined library, museum, and gallery complex in 1853 was spearheaded by Charles La Trobe, the Governor of Victoria at the time, and Sir Redmond Barry.

Who designed the original State Library Victoria complex, and what other notable buildings did they design?

The design competition was won by architect Joseph Reed. His firm and its successors were also responsible for designing other significant Melbourne landmarks, such as the Melbourne Town Hall and the Royal Exhibition Building.

When was the foundation stone for the library laid, and by whom?

The foundation stone for the library was laid on July 3, 1854, by Governor Sir Charles Hotham. This event occurred on the same day as the foundation stone laying for the University of Melbourne.

What was the initial collection size when the library first opened?

The library's first stage opened on February 11, 1856, with an initial collection of 3,800 books, carefully chosen by Mr. Justice Barry, who served as the President of Trustees.

What were the entry requirements for visitors to the Melbourne Public Library upon its opening?

When it first opened, the Melbourne Public Library was accessible to anyone over the age of 14, provided they maintained clean hands.

Describe the architectural development of the library during the 19th century.

The library complex was constructed in multiple phases throughout the 19th century, following Joseph Reed's 1860 master plan. Key additions included the Queen's Reading Room (1859), Hansen Hall (1864), the classical portico (1870), the McArthur Gallery (1875), Barry Hall (1886), and further expansions in 1892 that added galleries and the Lending Library.

What role did Marcus Clarke play in the library's history?

Marcus Clarke, a prominent author and journalist, joined the library's staff and served as its sub-librarian from 1874 until his death in 1881.

What was the purpose of the Library Museums and National Gallery Act of 1869?

This legislation unified the administration of the Public Library of Victoria, the National Gallery of Victoria, the National Museum of Victoria, and the Industrial & Technological Museum, bringing them under a single governing body.

When was the iconic Domed Reading Room completed, and who was the architect?

The Domed Reading Room was opened in 1913 and was designed by Norman G. Peebles of Bates, Smart and Partners, the successor firm to Joseph Reed's practice.

What changes were made to the Domed Reading Room's skylights in 1959, and when were they restored?

In 1959, the dome's skylights were covered with copper sheeting to address water leakage issues. These skylights were later revealed again following refurbishment in 2003, coinciding with the reopening of the space as the La Trobe Reading Room.

What was the function of the La Trobe Library when it opened in 1965?

The La Trobe Library was established in 1965 specifically to house the library's valuable Australiana collections.

When did the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) relocate from the library premises, and what happened to the vacated spaces?

The NGV moved to a new location on St Kilda Road in 1968. Subsequently, the Industrial & Technological Museum occupied the NGV's former buildings, and Queen's Hall was repurposed for library use.

What significant service was discontinued in 1971, and when did the CBD regain a public lending library?

The Lending Library at the State Library Victoria closed in 1971. Melbourne's central business district had to wait until 2004 for the opening of the City Library to have a public lending library again.

How did the construction of the Museum station improve access to the library?

Construction of Museum station (now Melbourne Central) began in 1973. Upon its completion in 1981, it provided direct heavy rail access to the State Library, significantly enhancing accessibility for patrons.

What was the approximate cost and the architectural firm involved in the major library refurbishments between 1990 and 2004?

The extensive refurbishments, conducted between 1990 and 2004 and designed by architects Ancher Mortlock & Woolley, cost approximately A$200 million.

What changes were made to the library's courtyards in the late 1990s?

In 1995, the north-west courtyard was enclosed to create a reading room, later becoming the Genealogy Centre and now the Conversation Quarter. In 1998, the north-east courtyard was enclosed to serve as the Newspaper Reading Room, now known as the Ideas Quarter.

What was the 'Vision 2020' project, and when was it finalized?

Vision 2020 was a significant five-year redevelopment project, initiated in 2015 with an investment of A$88.1 million, aimed at modernizing the library's public spaces, programs, and facilities. This project was officially completed in December 2019.

What key improvements were part of the 2015-16 State Budget allocation for the library's redevelopment?

The 2015-16 State Budget allocated A$55.4 million towards the redevelopment, which included restoring the Queen's Hall, creating a rooftop garden terrace, establishing a dedicated children's and youth space, and increasing public access by 40 percent.

What controversy did the State Library Victoria face in 2024 regarding its workshops?

In 2024, the library canceled online writing workshops for teenagers, citing a 'child and cultural safety review.' However, reports indicated the cancellations were linked to the host authors' pro-Palestine views concerning the Israel-Gaza war.

Describe the State Library Victoria's forecourt and its common uses.

The forecourt is the grassy area in front of the library's main Swanston Street entrance. It is a popular spot for people to relax during lunch breaks and is also used for rallies and protests.

What notable statues are featured in the library's forecourt?

The forecourt features several statues, including a memorial to Redmond Barry, 'Saint George and the Dragon' by Joseph Edgar Boehm, a replica of Emmanuel Frémiet's 'Jeanne d'Arc' (Joan of Arc), and a statue of Charles La Trobe by Peter Corlett. Historically, bronze lions flanked the entrance, and WWI commemorative statues were also present before being relocated.

When did the Dromkeen Collection become part of the State Library Victoria's holdings?

In 2012, the Dromkeen Foundation and Scholastic Australia donated the complete Dromkeen Collection and its associated archive to the State Library Victoria.

What are the dimensions of the Domed Reading Room, and what was its global standing upon completion?

The Domed Reading Room measures 34.75 meters in both diameter and height, featuring an oculus nearly 5 meters wide. Upon its completion, its dome was recognized as the largest in the world.

What collection is housed within the La Trobe Reading Room?

The La Trobe Reading Room, officially renamed in 2003, is home to the library's extensive Australiana collection, which was previously located in the 1965 La Trobe Building.

What permanent exhibition is displayed in the Dome Gallery?

The Dome Gallery, situated on Level 4 of the library, hosts the permanent and free exhibition titled 'World of the book'.

What was the original function of the space now known as The Ian Potter Queen's Hall?

The Ian Potter Queen's Hall originally opened in 1856 as the library's very first reading room, located above the ground floor rooms.

How is The Ian Potter Queen's Hall utilized today?

Following renovations and its reopening in 2019, The Ian Potter Queen's Hall serves as a multi-purpose study area featuring Victorian young adult literature. It also functions as a venue for special events during after-hours.

Where is the Redmond Barry Reading Room located, and what does it contain?

The Redmond Barry Reading Room is situated at the eastern end of the library. It houses the library's contemporary collection of books, magazines, and periodicals, with a mezzanine level providing additional study desks and housing folio-size books.

What was the historical use of the building that now contains the Redmond Barry Reading Room?

This building was originally constructed in 1893 to house the Industrial and Technological Museum. From 1899 to 1997, it served as the home for the National Museum of Victoria, during which time it was known as McCoy Hall.

What is the purpose of the Heritage Collections Reading Room?

The Heritage Collections Reading Room is a controlled-access area where visitors can view materials from the library's heritage collections. While map bags of historical Melbourne maps are accessible without an appointment, viewing other heritage materials requires prior arrangement.

What types of materials are available in the Arts Reading Room?

The Arts Reading Room holds a comprehensive and high-quality collection focused on art, music, and the performing arts, including books, periodicals, and recordings.

What resources are available in the Newspaper and Family History Reading Rooms?

These rooms offer a wide array of resources, including Victorian newspaper titles on microfilm, current newspapers, and extensive materials for family history research such as microfilm, microfiche, reference books, databases, and biographies. They also provide research tools like computers, printers, and scanners, with specialist librarian assistance available.

Can you list some of the other public spaces within the State Library Victoria?

Other public areas include the Swanston Street Welcome Zone, The Quad (which encompasses StartSpace, Conversation Quarter, Create Quarter, Ideas Quarter, and Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter), Isabella Fraser Room, Cowen Gallery, South Rotunda, North Rotunda, Conference Centre, Village Roadshow Theatrette, Keith Murdoch Gallery, Hansen Hall, Victoria Gallery, and Russell Street Welcome Zone.

What is the 'World of the Book' exhibition?

'World of the Book' is a permanent exhibition at the library that showcases over 300 rare and significant items from the State Collection, highlighting the cultural importance of books.

Which exhibition held in 2022-23 was the library's most popular on record?

The exhibition 'The Rest Is Up To You: Melbourne Fringe Festival 1982-2042,' co-curated with the Melbourne Fringe Festival, was the library's most popular exhibition on record for the 2022-23 period.

What made the 'MIRROR: New views on photography' exhibition in 2023 unique?

The 'MIRROR: New views on photography' exhibition in 2023 was distinguished as the first exhibition at an Australian cultural institution to fully integrate sign language into its presentation.

What was the library's first born-digital exhibition, and what technology was employed?

Launched in 2023, the library's first born-digital exhibition, 'Beyond the Book: A journey through the Treasures of the Emmerson Collection,' utilized advanced photogrammetry techniques to create highly detailed digital captures of rare books related to the English Civil War.

What is the 'Ask a Librarian' service?

The 'Ask a Librarian' service is a complimentary reference assistance program offered by State Library Victoria, providing support for research inquiries, including family history, both in person and online.

How can Victorians access the library's digital resources from home?

Victorians who are registered as State Library Access members can access many of the library's eResources remotely from their homes.

What is the size of the library's photograph collection, and how are these images made available?

The library holds a collection of 1,253,543 photographs. Images that are out of copyright and do not have cultural sensitivities are digitized and made available for free download in TIF format.

What is 'The La Trobe Journal', and when did it begin publication?

'The La Trobe Journal' was initiated in 1968 by the Friends of State Library Victoria to foster interest in the library's Australiana collection. Since 2014, it has been published annually by the State Library Victoria in December.

What is significant about the State Library Victoria's Chess Collection?

The library houses a notable Chess Collection, which includes items from the Anderson Chess Collection, recognized as one of the three largest public chess collections worldwide.

What is the National eDeposit (NED) system, and what role does State Library Victoria play in it?

The National eDeposit (NED) system facilitates the uploading of electronic publications by Australian publishers for legal deposit, making them accessible online through Trove. State Library Victoria, as a member of National and State Libraries Australia (NSLA), was a collaborator in the development of this system.

In which films and television series has the State Library Victoria been featured?

The library's exterior appeared in the film 'On the Beach.' The La Trobe Reading Room was featured in the music video for Faker's song 'Hurricane,' the film 'Any Questions for Ben?,' the HBO series 'The Leftovers,' and the SBS series 'Safe Home'.

State Library Victoria Wiki: The Athenaeum of Victoria: A Scholarly Exposition of State Library Victoria

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About State Library Victoria

Foundational Institution

State Library Victoria (SLV), established in 1854 as the Melbourne Public Library, stands as Australia's oldest public library and one of the world's earliest free libraries. It is situated in Melbourne, Victoria, and serves as the state library for Victoria.

Central Location

The library occupies a significant block in Melbourne's central business district, bordered by Swanston, La Trobe, Russell, and Little Lonsdale Streets. Its presence has been central to the city's cultural and intellectual landscape since its inception.

Operational Scale

As of recent reports, SLV is Australia's busiest public library and ranks among the busiest globally. It serves a substantial population, offering free access to its extensive resources and facilities.

Historical Trajectory

19th Century Origins

Conceived in 1853 through the efforts of Governor Charles La Trobe and Sir Redmond Barry, the library's foundation stone was laid in 1854. Designed by Joseph Reed, it opened in 1856 with an initial collection of 3,800 books. Augustus H. Tulk served as the first librarian. The library was conceived as a free public institution, accessible to all citizens.

1859: South part of the front wing opened, including the Queen's Reading Room.
1860: Joseph Reed's master plan for the entire block was developed.
1866-1870: Temporary halls and a pagoda were built for the Intercolonial Exhibition; later housed the Industrial & Technological Museum.
1870: Marcus Clarke joined the library staff.
1875: The McArthur Gallery was built for the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV).
1886-1893: Barry Hall, Cowen Gallery, Victoria Gallery, and Redmond Barry Reading Room were constructed, expanding the complex.

20th Century Evolution

The 20th century saw significant architectural additions and organizational changes. The iconic Domed Reading Room was completed in 1913, designed by Bates, Peebles and Smart. The library's collections and functions continued to evolve, adapting to the changing needs of the community and the city.

1909: Construction began on the Domed Reading Room.
1915: Queen's Hall became home to the Industrial and Technological Museum.
1944: The Public Library, National Gallery, and Museums were organizationally separated.
1968: NGV moved to a new location, allowing Queen's Hall to return to library use.
1971: The Lending Library closed.
1973-1981: Construction of Museum station (now Melbourne Central) provided rail access.
1990-2004: Major refurbishments costing approximately A$200 million were undertaken.

21st Century Transformation

The 21st century has been marked by significant redevelopment projects, most notably the Vision 2020 initiative, aimed at modernizing public spaces and enhancing accessibility. Digital initiatives and new exhibition spaces have further solidified SLV's role as a contemporary cultural hub.

2001-2003: Creation of new exhibition spaces and reopening of the La Trobe Reading Room.
2010: Southern wing reopened as The Wheeler Centre.
2015-2019: Vision 2020 redevelopment project, including restoration of Queen's Hall and increased public access.
2019: Completion of the Vision 2020 redevelopment.
2023: Launch of the first born-digital exhibition, "Beyond the Book."
2024: Controversy surrounding the cancellation of teen writing workshops.

Architectural Marvels & Reading Spaces

Domed Reading Room

Opened in 1913 and designed by Norman G. Peebles, the Domed Reading Room is a landmark architectural achievement. Its octagonal space, with a diameter and height of 34.75 meters, was once the largest dome in the world. Refurbished in 2003, it now houses the Australiana collection and is known as the La Trobe Reading Room.

Ian Potter Queen's Hall

Originally the library's first reading room (opened 1856), this space served various functions, including housing the Industrial and Technological Museum. After renovation, it reopened in 2019 as a study space for Victorian young adult literature and functions as a venue for special events.

Redmond Barry Reading Room

Located at the eastern end, this room houses the library's contemporary collection of books and periodicals. Previously home to museums, it offers mezzanine study spaces and provides access to current publications.

Heritage & Arts Spaces

The Heritage Collections Reading Room offers access to rare materials by appointment. The Arts Reading Room supports study of art, music, and performing arts, equipped with AV resources. The Quad, a central atrium space, connects various zones including the Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter and StartSpace for entrepreneurs.

Treasures of the Collection

Vast Holdings

State Library Victoria holds over five million items, encompassing books, manuscripts, paintings, maps, photographs, and newspapers. A significant focus is placed on materials pertaining to Victoria's history and development.

Notable Items

Key holdings include the diaries of Melbourne's founders John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner, folios from explorer James Cook, and significant items related to Ned Kelly, such as his iconic armour and the original Jerilderie Letter.

Digital Initiatives

SLV is actively involved in digitizing its collections, making out-of-copyright images freely downloadable. It collaborates on the National eDeposit (NED) system, ensuring access to Australian electronic publications.

Specialized Collections

The library houses the Anderson Chess Collection, one of the world's largest public chess collections. It also maintains the Dromkeen Collection of children's literature and art, and significant items like John James Audubon's "The Birds of America."

Resources and Engagement

Ask a Librarian

SLV provides a free reference enquiry service, "Ask a Librarian," accessible both onsite and online. This service assists visitors with research questions, including complex family history investigations.

eResources Access

Registered members can access a wide array of digital resources from home, including extensive databases of magazine and journal articles, archives of major newspapers, and thousands of eBooks, significantly extending the library's reach.

Exhibitions and Events

The library hosts permanent exhibitions like "World of the Book" and numerous special exhibitions showcasing its collections and international loans. It also serves as a venue for major cultural events, literary festivals, and community gatherings.

Cultural Resonance

Popular Culture Presence

State Library Victoria's distinctive architecture has featured in various media, including films like "On the Beach" and "Any Questions for Ben?", and music videos. Its spaces provide evocative backdrops for artistic and narrative works.

Forecourt Significance

The library's forecourt, with its statues and green space, is a popular public area for relaxation and gathering. Historically, it has also been a site for public discourse, rallies, and protests, reflecting its role as a civic space.

Community Hub

Beyond its archival and research functions, SLV acts as a vital community hub. Initiatives like StartSpace foster entrepreneurship, while its diverse programming engages a broad spectrum of the public, reinforcing its commitment to lifelong learning and cultural enrichment.

Heritage Designation

Victorian Heritage Register

The State Library Victoria building is recognized for its historical and architectural significance, listed on the Victorian Heritage Register (Reference No. H1497) and designated as a State Registered Place. This designation underscores its importance as a cultural landmark.

Architectural Legacy

The library complex represents a significant example of 19th and 20th-century architectural styles, with contributions from prominent architects like Joseph Reed and Bates Smart. Its evolution reflects changing design philosophies and urban development.

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References

Burt, Sandra (2001). "Marcus Clarke at the Public Library", La Trobe Library Journal, 67, pp. 55â60

It was superseded within months by the far larger, 69-metre-diameter Centennial Hall in what was then Breslau, Germany (now Wroclaw, Poland).

A full list of references for this article are available at the State Library Victoria Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This document has been meticulously crafted by an AI, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. It is intended for academic and informational purposes, aiming to present a comprehensive overview suitable for higher education students. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source, users are advised that this content is a derivative work and should be cross-referenced with primary sources for critical research.

This is not professional advice. The information presented does not constitute professional consultation regarding library science, archival practices, architectural history, or cultural heritage management. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific guidance.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein.

The Athenaeum of Victoria

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About State Library Victoria ℹ️

🏛️ Foundational Institution

📍 Central Location

📈 Operational Scale

Historical Trajectory 📜

🏛️ 19th Century Origins

⚙️ 20th Century Evolution

💡 21st Century Transformation

Architectural Marvels & Reading Spaces 🛋️

🌟 Domed Reading Room

📜 Ian Potter Queen's Hall

📖 Redmond Barry Reading Room

🖼️ Heritage & Arts Spaces

Treasures of the Collection 📚

🗄️ Vast Holdings

⭐ Notable Items

💻 Digital Initiatives

♟️ Specialized Collections

Resources and Engagement 💡

❓ Ask a Librarian

🌐 eResources Access

🖼️ Exhibitions and Events

Cultural Resonance 🌟

🎬 Popular Culture Presence

🌳 Forecourt Significance

🤝 Community Hub

Heritage Designation 🏛️

📜 Victorian Heritage Register

🏗️ Architectural Legacy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About State Library Victoria

Foundational Institution

Central Location

Operational Scale

Historical Trajectory

19th Century Origins

20th Century Evolution

21st Century Transformation

Architectural Marvels & Reading Spaces

Domed Reading Room

Ian Potter Queen's Hall

Redmond Barry Reading Room

Heritage & Arts Spaces

Treasures of the Collection

Vast Holdings

Notable Items

Digital Initiatives

Specialized Collections

Resources and Engagement

Ask a Librarian

eResources Access

Exhibitions and Events

Cultural Resonance

Popular Culture Presence

Forecourt Significance

Community Hub

Heritage Designation

Victorian Heritage Register

Architectural Legacy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice