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Ordering copies of collection items

Copies of collection items

Copies of collection items can be provided to you in TIFF (highest quality, suitable for reproduction in books, exhibitions and lectures) or PDF format. Files are delivered to you as a digital download or on CD.

You can use our service:

  • where self-service copying options (photocopying, scanning and photographing) aren't possible – for example, an item is too fragile or it isn't convenient for you to come to the Library and make your own copy.
  • where you want a copy of an item that hasn't yet been digitised and made available for free download via the catalogue.
  • where you want a custom version of an item already digitised and available through the catalogue.

Please note that some items can't be copied; for example, because they are too fragile, rare or valuable.

How to place an order

Search our catalogue for the item you'd like to copy. If the catalogue results show that a free downloadable TIFF (high-quality image) or JPEG (lower-quality image) is already available, you don't need to order a copy unless you'd like a custom version.

To place an order, you will need to be signed-in to our catalogue. If you are not already registered, you can become a Library member now. 

Open the full catalogue record to view the ‘Order a digital copy’ button and follow the prompts to complete your order.

Prices vary according to material type, output and quantity.

If you have any problems placing an order, please contact Ask a librarian or email us at [email protected].

Once completed, you can return to the Direct Delivery service to track the progress of your order.

Track your order

For more information, read our frequently asked questions

What can be copied

Subject to copyright and other conditions, you can order copies of:

  • pictures, maps and manuscripts
  • books, newspapers and journal articles.

Many items are available in digital format via our subscriptions to journal and ebook publisher databases and websites, and can be downloaded or printed for free.

The Library has an active digitising program, with a focus on digitising items relevant to Victoria and Australia. More than 600,000 images from our collection have been digitised and are available to download from our catalogue, for free. 

You are welcome to copy and re-use our out-of-copyright material; however, we ask you to acknowledge the work's creator and title (where known), and State Library Victoria as the source of the work.

Some digitised materials may be subject to copyright or other access conditions such as cultural sensitivity.

Where items are not available in this way, you can order a digital copy (terms and conditions apply).

Copying works with Indigenous content

Indigenous content held in our collections is different from non Indigenous content. Many Indigenous laws and practices are not accommodated by the Australian legal regime, meaning that Indigenous people cannot always rely on the law to protect or recognise restricted information and knowledge structure.

In recognition of the need to consider both Indigenous and western laws, the Library abides by protocols and policies for the management of works with Indigenous content. These have been developed in consultation with Indigenous communities. They include assistance in deciding on the approach to copying works with Indigenous content.

One essential aspect when considering copying works with Indigenous content is the need to consult with the Indigenous community and obtain and record permission(s) for the specific uses required. This may take time, given many communities are widespread and on Country.

If you have requested a copy of a work with Indigenous content, the Library’s Koori liaison officer will contact you with information about the permission that may be required and advise on how to obtain this. You will need to allow time to obtain the permissions required and will need to provide proof of permissions to the Library before the copy can be supplied.

Price list

Original formatOutput formatPrice A$ inc GST
Books, journal articles and newspapers (per citation)PDF
TIFF (high-quality)
$19.70 for 1-25 pages, $4.60 for each addition 25 pages
$31.70 per page
Pictures, photographs, maps & architectural drawingsTIFF (high-quality)$31.70 each
Manuscripts (text only)PDF
TIFF (high-quality)
$19.70 for every 25 pages
$31.70 per page
Manuscripts (pictures, photographs, maps and architectural drawings)TIFF (high-quality)$31.70 per image
Microfiche mapsPDF$19.70 for every 25 pages

Delivery fees

LocationMethodPrice A$
All locationsFile downloadFree
State Library Victoria, MelbourneCollect in personFree
Australian states including VictoriaAustralia Post (standard)$10.60
Australian states including VictoriaAustralia Post (express)$16.00
InternationalAustralia Post (standard)$26.60

All prices are quoted in Australian dollars and all charges will be processed in Australian dollars. GST is removed from all international orders before payment.

Prices are subject to change without notification and total amounts payable are subject to confirmation. The Library will notify you by email or phone if there are any changes to the total cost of an order.

Please note that due to restricted conditions during COVID-19, it may take up to 30 working days to complete your request.

For more information, read our FAQs, phone our Direct Delivery online copy ordering service on 03 8664 7159 or email [email protected].