World War I

The Library's World War I Collection is without equal in Victoria. Comprising a wide range of published materials, ephemera, maps and photographs, this collection shows how the people of Britain, Europe and Australia responded to the enormous change and hardship brought about by the war.

What's in the World War I Collection?

In addition to modern histories, biographies and reference materials, this collection also contains rare materials from the era including magazines, newsletters, books, pictures, photographs, newspaper articles, diaries, letters, sheet music and personal narratives.

What's special about this collection?

Roll of Honour cards for the army and navy, enlistment and casualty records, oral history interviews, order of battle books, and information on medals and weapons complement the Library's extensive collection of military and civilian periodicals. A rich source of information on the war, these periodicals contain articles, statistics, poetry, songs, cartoons, letters, photographs and propaganda.

Over 2700 European war pamphlets provide a unique insight into the social, political and religious attitudes of the time from both the allied and German perspectives. Contemporary photographs and illustrations also reveal a great deal about the conditions at the front and at home. 

How can I access material in this collection?

A selection of items from the World War I Collection is available for browsing and reading in the Redmond Barry Reading Room. Rare and fragile items in this collection can only be viewed by appointment.