State Library Victoria - Main Branch
The Melbourne Public Library system serves the residents of Melbourne, Australia with 45+ branch locations throughout the city. The main branch, State Library Victoria, serves as the central hub for library services in the area.
Whether you're looking for a quiet study space, computer access, children's programs, or simply want to borrow books, Melbourne's library system offers comprehensive services to meet your needs.
Library Hours
| Day | Main Branch | Other Branches |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Thursday | 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM |
| Friday | 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM | Closed |
⚠️ Hours may vary by location and season. Always call ahead or check the official website for current hours.
About Melbourne Libraries
The State Library Victoria is the flagship location of the Melbourne library system. This main branch typically offers:
- Extended operating hours
- Largest book and media collection
- Meeting rooms and study spaces
- Computer labs with internet access
- Children's and teen sections
- Special collections and archives
- Accessibility services
Melbourne Library System Overview
Access & Membership
To get a library card in Melbourne, you typically need:
- Valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID)
- Proof of current address (utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement)
- Visit any Melbourne library branch in person
Library cards are usually free for residents. Non-residents may be eligible for a card with a fee or through reciprocal borrowing agreements.
About Melbourne Libraries
Melbourne libraries typically close or have reduced hours on major holidays including:
- New Year's Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Presidents' Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day (July 4th)
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Eve & Christmas Day
History & Key Facts
Founded in 1854, the City of Melbourne Libraries & State Library Victoria serves the community with 7 branches and welcomes approximately 4 million annually (State Library Victoria alone). The system has grown into one of the most important library networks in the region.
Notable Fact
The La Trobe Reading Room is a soaring octagonal domed space completed in 1913 - at the time, its 34-metre dome was the largest reinforced concrete dome in the world.
Good to Know
Local Tip: State Library Victoria lends free artworks from its picture collection for personal display at home - choose a framed print, borrow it for eight weeks, and swap it for another.
Best time to visit: The Redmond Barry Reading Room on the ground floor stays calm all day and has power outlets at every seat. La Trobe dome fills up by 11am on weekdays.
Getting there: State Library Victoria is on Swanston Street at La Trobe, directly served by tram routes 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 16, 64, 67, 72 along Swanston Street (free tram zone).
Melbourne Library Services
Creative Spaces program provides free coworking desks, meeting rooms, and exhibition spaces specifically for early-career artists, writers, and independent researchers.
Did you know? State Library Victoria holds the original armour worn by bushranger Ned Kelly, displayed in a permanent gallery alongside his Jerilderie Letter, considered a masterpiece of Australian literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Melbourne library hours today?
Most Melbourne library branches are open Monday-Saturday 9 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday 1 PM to 5 PM. The State Library Victoria may have extended hours. Check specific branch pages for exact times.
How many libraries are in Melbourne?
Melbourne has 45+ public library branches serving the Melbourne, Australia area, including the main State Library Victoria.
Is the Melbourne library open on weekends?
Yes, most Melbourne library branches are open on Saturdays. Select locations also offer Sunday hours. Holiday schedules may vary.
Can I use the Melbourne library without a card?
Yes, you can visit and use in-library resources like computers and reading materials without a card. However, you'll need a library card to borrow items.
