A library interior with shelves filled with books and a desk with computers in the foreground.
A person stands in front of a bookshelf reading a book, with the shelves labeled
The exterior of the Athenaeum building is shown with ornate architectural details and the word

Melbourne Athenaeum Library: A Hidden Gem

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Description

The Melbourne Athenaeum Library is one of Melbourne's three oldest cultural institutions. The library retains many historic features and is a haven in the heart of a bustling city. With about 1000 members, this subscription library offers the latest in literature in a historic space.

What's On

The Melbourne Athenaeum Library is a secret people love finding out about. Our beautiful heritage library dates back to the early days of Melbourne's history as a city in the 1830s. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the library's historic features, including artwork and other items. Volunteers will be on hand to answer questions and provide information about the library's history and continuing place in Melbourne's cultural and literary landscape.

Images: (1-4) Melbourne Athenaeum. All photos: Grace Petrou.

Important Details

Tour/event summary information

Friday 24 July + Saturday 25 July +  Sunday 26 July
Open access 10am-4pm

Bookings

No bookings required

Accessibility

Lift access to all public levels

Lift available but restricted wheelchair access as lift is historic and small. Library is on level 1, which is up two flights of stairs.

Location

Level 1, 188 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Country

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