Literature

From Shakespeare to DBC Pierre, from the classics to the latest in contemporary poetry, the State Library’s Literature Collection covers every aspect of literary endeavour.

What's in the Literature Collection?

This collection has a strong emphasis on English language materials which include works of fiction, poetry, drama and literary criticism as well as a wide range of reference materials.

What's special about this collection?

Australian, and particularly Victorian, literature is the main focus of the collection. Critically acclaimed fiction, award-winning novels, limited editions of poetry, anthologies, plays and Australian works that have been translated into other languages are all well represented. Examples of major genre writing complement the collection of popular fiction produced in Victoria.

International literature and historical works also have a strong place in the collection. Notable examples include British and European literature from the 19th to the early 20th centuries, early English and modern drama, adaptations of Shakespeare’s plays, and collections of 19th century Latin and Greek literature. A selection of key critical magazines and texts, including literary criticism of early modern English writing, are also well represented.

The Library’s extensive literature reference collection makes it easy to find a famous quote, research the life of a particular writer or locate the title of a specific poem. These resources include a range of literary histories, biographies, dictionaries, books of quotations, guides and indexes to poetry and prose.

How can I access material in this collection?

A selection of items from the Literature Collection is available for browsing and reading in the the Redmond Barry Reading Room.