Media Release

Bring The Whole Family To The Library!

See your children dress up in a replica of Ned Kelly’s armour, listen with them to fascinating stories, join your kids to watch classic magic shows and learn how to care for your most precious documents! It’s all part of the free activities on Family Day on Sunday 17 April at the State Library of Victoria.

The changing face of Victoria exhibition was launched in November 2004, with exhibits including Ned Kelly’s armour, Burke and Wills’ last notes and the Batman Deeds. Stage 2, opening on Family Day, includes new displays about Marvellous Melbourne, Victorians at War and 20th Century Collections and Stories. A day of free activities for all the family will be held to celebrate the completion of the exhibition.

Visit The changing face of Victoria exhibition – Gallery guides will be on hand to answer questions and provide interesting insights into the exhibits. 10am–5pm – Dome Gallery, Level 5.

Making History: Ordinary people changing the face of Victoria – Join exhibition curator Clare Williamson in conversation with Colin Dunn. 12–12.45pm – Dome Gallery, Level 4

A Curator’s View – Listen to exhibition curator Clare Williamson and history buff Paul Bateman for a fascinating introduction to The changing face of Victoria. 2–2.45pm – Dome Gallery, Level 4

Conservation Clinic – Bring along your old letters, books and family treasures. Library conservators will give expert advice on how to preserve and care for them. 10am–12 noon – Experimedia

For children

Storytelling with Jackie Kerin – Jackie’s delightful tales will captivate children aged up to 8 years. 10.30am, 1pm & 3pm – Dome Gallery, Level 4

Ned Kelly’s Armour – Do it yourself – A fun workshop for children aged 5 to 12. Numbers strictly limited; book at foyer desk from 10am. 11am, 1pm & 2.30pm.

Face-to-Face Animation – Children aged 8–12 can create their own digital animated faces. Numbers strictly limited; book at foyer desk from 10am. 12 noon, 12.45pm & 2.30pm.

Ned Kelly Portraits – For kids of all ages! Dress up in replicas of Ned Kelly’s armour and pose for a digital portrait. 12--4pm – Experimedia.

Magic Shows – Popular magician Andrew Gill performs classic magic tricks, for children of any age. 1.30pm & 3pm – Experimedia

Souvenir Certificates for Kids – Children can collect a free certificate with their name on it, as an official souvenir of Family Day. Visit the Foundation table in the foyer.