Our favourite Library spaces
Since 1856, the Library has expanded and evolved into a remarkable collection of 23 buildings spanning an entire city block.
Whether it’s witnessing hungry seagulls patrol the forecourt, walking across the original floorboards of Redmond Barry Reading Room or taking in the incredible architecture of the Dome, our librarians share what they love about their favourite spaces in the Library as we celebrate 170 years.
Explore more in the below blog or find your very own favourite space during a guided tour before the doors open to the public.
Are algorithms programmed to keep you single?
An unmissable talk
Modern Love is a 2-part series exploring how technology, digital platforms and cultural phenomena are reshaping human intimacy, desire and connection.
For the first event of the series, our stellar lineup Conor Gallacher (Human Love Quest), Dee Salmin (Triple J’s The Hook Up) and Professor Gery Karantzas (Relationship Science Online) join host Dr Jacinta Parsons (ABC Radio Melbourne) for an in-depth panel discussion exploring whether authentic connection is possible outside algorithmic matchmaking.
Modern Love: Love outside the algorithm
1 Apr, 6.30–7.45pm
$17–$23
Conversation Quarter
On sale now
Melbourne Writers Festival has unveiled its full 2026 lineup, bringing some of the most exciting voices in literature from Australia and around the globe to Melbourne from 7–10 May.
Explore the Festival’s special 40th-anniversary program and discover bestsellers, prize winners, performance artists and electric new voices in fiction, poetry and memoir. Don’t miss this 4-day celebration of more than 150 visionary writers and storytellers who shape our world.
What’s on
Coming soon at the Library
Toddler Tales
2026 Foxcroft Lecture: Professor Danielle Clarke31 Mar
Step back in time to the early modern period (1550–1700) to trace the reading habits of everyday men and women.
Library Up Late x RISING29 May
Library Up Late returns for RISING with an evening packed with dancing, art and creativity.
Plan ahead before you visit
The Library is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Visit our website for more information on how to make the most of your visit.
1. Melbourne Public Library / Supplement to the Weekly Time 1871. S. Calvert (engraver); H4768
2. Dr Jacinta Parsons, image supplied by talent. Conor Gallacher, image supplied by talent. Dee Salmin, credit Simon Fitzpatrick. Professor Gery Karantzas, image supplied by talent
3. Melbourne Writers Festival, supplied by Melbourne Writers Festival
4. Toddler Tales, credit SDP Media
5. 2026 Foxcroft Lecture: Professor Danielle Clarke, credit Professor Danielle Clarke
6. Library Up Late x RISING, credit Matto Lucas
