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Stories

Discover curiosities, treasures and the latest inspiring stories from our community and inside the Library

Headshot of a woman next to Bindi book cover
10 December 2020

Kirli Saunders Story Talks

Tune in to hear about Kirli's new book and learn how to celebrate and take care of Country.

Black and white photo of a man smiling
10 December 2020

Story Talks with Boori Monty Pryor

Be transported by the creative tales of the famed storyteller and author of My Girragundji.

Woman with pink hair smiling next to cover of book
10 December 2020

Julianne Negri Story Talks

In this three-part series author Julianne Negri ensnares the senses and lets your imagination run wild with creative reading and writing activities.

A manuscript lays unfurled from its scroll
08 December 2020

From tablet to codex & beyond: the history of the book

Join Senior librarian Dr Anna Welch to discover how changes in the physical form of the book have revolutionised the way we take in information and ideas.

Sepia photo of a tin shed next to Melbourne's post office
04 December 2020

The mysterious tin shed in Melbourne's CBD

This episode of From the Vault explores the story of a humble corrugated iron building which sat in the middle of the city for decades.

Man lying on black and white pattered ground
30 November 2020

‘Behind the Paint’, Shannyn Higgins’ vibrant portraits of street artists

In this striking portrait series, Victoria’s most prolific street artists dive in to the world they’ve created, and invite you to join them.

Black and while aerial shot of St Kilda foreshore
26 November 2020

The breathtaking aerial photography of 'Airspy'

The story behind these stunning bird's-eye photos is just as amazing as the images themselves.

A long-haired, smiling woman in overalls holds up a sign saying 'A good idea'
24 November 2020

Photobooks

In this short film, Principal Librarian Des Cowley shows stunning examples of Australian photobooks on display in our 'World of the book' exhibition.

19 November 2020

'Guide Alice': Mt Buffalo's original rebel, guide and photographer

Enjoy the photography and adventurous stories of Alice Manfield in this episode of From the Vault.

19 November 2020

The Library is open!

We can't wait to welcome you back.

Lifelike painting of birds among foliage
17 November 2020

Audubon's astonishing 'Birds of America'

Watch Principal Librarian Des Cowley reveal the intriguing stories behind Audubon's astonishing work of art, 'Birds of America' – including how the Library came to acquire it.

Black and white photo of two ballet dancers
11 November 2020

The exquisite ballet photography of Jean Stewart

Take a tantalising glimpse into the world of ballet from the 1930s to 1950s.