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.
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 format | Output format | Price A$ inc GST |
|---|---|---|
| Books, journal articles and newspapers (per citation) | PDF TIFF (high-quality) | $21.10 for 1-25 pages, $4.90 for each addition 25 pages $33.90 per page |
| Pictures, photographs, maps & architectural drawings | TIFF (high-quality) | $33.90 each |
| Manuscripts (text only) | PDF TIFF (high-quality) | $21.10 for every 25 pages $33.90 per page |
| Manuscripts (pictures, photographs, maps and architectural drawings) | TIFF (high-quality) | $33.90 per image |
| Microfiche maps | $21.10 for every 25 pages |
Delivery fees
| Location | Method | Price A$ |
|---|---|---|
| All locations | File download | Free |
| State Library Victoria, Melbourne | Collect in person | Free |
| Australian states including Victoria | Australia Post (standard) | $11.30 |
| Australian states including Victoria | Australia Post (express) | $17.10 |
| International | Australia Post (standard) | $28.50 |
Please note: fees for our Direct Delivery Service increased on 17 July 2023 and are listed above.
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].