'World of the book' tour

About the tour

Join this free daily tour of the magnificent domed La Trobe Reading Room at 11.30am and see highlights of the World of the book exhibition.

See rare and significant works that showcase the history of book design, production and illustration from the Middle Ages to today. New items and stories are now on display in this exhibition, revealing different aspects of the Library’s Rare Books collection. 

Highlights include key works of philosophy and science that changed the world, atlases and maps from European voyages of discovery, some of the earliest uses of photography, stunning modern artist books, as well as selected highlights from the John Emmerson collection of 17th-century printed works.

The World of the book exhibition is on Level 4 of the Dome Galleries, overlooking the La Trobe Reading Room in the heart of the Library.

Meet next to Readings Bookshop in the Russell Street Welcome Zone at 11.30am to join a tour.

If you'd like to borrow a portable audio loop unit before joining a guided tour or attending an event, ask your tour guide or staff in the Russell Street Welcome Zone for assistance.

For school tours, browse our range of programs for primary and secondary school groups, led by education professionals.