Religion

The Library’s Religion Collection reflects the diversity of cultures and religious beliefs in our society. While it has a strong focus on Christianity, major world religions (especially those practiced by the people of Victoria) are also well represented.

What's in the Religion Collection?

This collection includes publications which introduce and explain the basic concepts and practices of the major world religions, key reference works, important interpretive texts, sacred books, and authoritative studies in the history and theology of comparative religions. Selected new versions of English and non-English Bibles, including those in Aboriginal languages, are also standard items in the collection as are major standard hymnals.

What's special about this collection?

The history of religious practice and belief in Victoria is a particular strength of the collection. There are specific works on the development of individual churches in the state, Aboriginal spiritual beliefs, and the history of Australian missions.

This collection also features many important historical texts. These include Protestant theology publications dating from the 16th to the 18th centuries, the monumental Fathers of the Church series, early Hebrew printed books, a range of manuscripts and historic materials on the Society of Jesus, and religious works that are significant in the history of printing.

How do I access material in this collection?

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