Explore collections by theme

The Library’s vast collection dates back to 1854 and includes material on almost every subject you can think of, with a special focus on material from Victoria. From art, children’s books, war and family history to film, business and industry, and Australian history, there is plenty for curious browsers and serious researchers alike.

Exploring our collection by theme is a quick and easy way to discover the amazing breadth of what we hold. Curious? Get started now... (You can also explore our collections by format.)

Eaglemont house designed by Walter Burley Griffin

Architecture

The Library's collection of architecture resources is informative and inspiring.

Art

Books on the visual arts have had a place within the Library's collection since its early days.

Australian history

The Library’s Australian history collection provides a unique insight into the history and development of Australian society, politics and culture.

British colonial history

When the Library opened in 1856 the British Empire was the dominant global power, with colonies and outposts all over the world – including Australia.

Female bank clerk at work, state head office of National Bank of Australia, 1953

Business & industry

The Library has extensive collections of business information, both current and historical.

Children's books

The Library has children’s books published between the 16th and 21st century, reflecting patterns of childhood reading over 500 years.

Film & performing arts

The performing arts now encompasses film, television, radio and all manner of performances that occur beyond the walls of traditional theatre buildings.

Black and white photographic portrait of an extended family

Family history

The Library has an incredible array of family history resources to help you find out more about the lives of your ancestors.

The Prime Minister and Governor General inspecting a line of sailors

Government & law

The Library has the largest publicly accessible collection of Victorian and Australian government and law publications in Victoria.

German bible, published by Anton Koberger, Nuremberg, 1483

History of the book

Before the book, as we know it, writing was recorded onto clay tablets and papyrus scrolls.

Departure of Burke & Wills, Melbourne, 1861

Journeys & exploration

The Library has a wealth of collection material recording the experiences of the many travellers who have documented their journeys to, from and around Australia.

Postcard depicting Aboriginal people at their camp, c 1909

Koori Victoria

State Library Victoria has been in a unique position to develop its holdings of books, photographs and other material relating to Aboriginal people.

Literature

The Library has a vast collection of Australian and international literature and literary criticism.

Music

The Library’s extraordinary collection of music includes just about every musical style imaginable, from medieval chant to heavy metal and hip-hop.

Embothrium speciosifsimum (Telopea speciosissima), 1793

Plants & gardens

The Library’s collections contain a wealth of information for the garden and plant historian and enthusiast.

Science & technology

Our collection has plenty of material on science and technology that will enlighten and enthral – from astronomy and botany to ornithology, mathematics, paleontology and microsurgery.

1889 painting of Carbine, by Frederick Woodhouse Jnr

Sport & games

A Victorian library would not be a Victorian library if it did not reflect our well-known obsession with sport and games.

Postcard with call to arms: Australia for ever!

War

Our collection includes works on war from ancient times to the present day, with particularly strong holdings related to wars and battles in which Australia has been involved.