World of the Book Tour

Tour this one-of-a-kind exhibition and chart the rise, and restyling, of the beloved book through the history of book design, production and illustration from the Middle Ages to today. 

World of the Book features more than 300 never-before-exhibited items and celebrates the unique place books have in our hearts and minds.

Marvel at early editions of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, rare editions of Through the Looking-Glass and What Alice Found There, and works by pioneering 18th century mathematician Émilie du Châtelet, acquired through State Library Victoria’s Women Writers Fund. 

Discover books on astronomy from as far back as 336 CE, the world of shadow puppetry and artist books designed to be literally unreadable. 

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition themselves after the tour ends. 

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.

Please note: The meeting point for this tour is Hansen Hall, located within the Swanston Street Welcome Zone.

More to explore

• Learn more about World of the Book 2023 exhibition