| Date | 07 April 2026, 9:15am–31 December 2026, 10:15am |
|---|---|
| Cost | $39 per person plus booking and payment fee |
| Bookings | Bookings required |
| Location | State Library Victoria |
With more than 4.5 million objects to choose from, where does the Library start for an exhibition? What treasures lie underneath the Library's Dome?
Guided by State Library Victoria storytellers, gain exclusive insight into Rebel Heart: Love letters and other declarations, an exciting new display exploring love through the Library’s extraordinary archive of soul-baring letters, intimate diaries and rare manuscripts, amplified in powerful new music commissions.
Descend underneath the iconic Dome as you are led into key collection spaces usually off-limits to the public, unlocking treasures dating back to the 1800s.
Learn about how the Library’s grand gallery spaces hold incredible collections of love stories - woven through the displays of people, places and communities that have shaped Victoria.
Tour Highlights
Rebel Heart: Discover the stories behind the items on display, including the powerful new music commissions by Australian artists Angie McMahon, Mindy Meng Wang, Mo’Ju and Amos Roach and a deeper look at the items on display.
Back of house: Descend beneath the Dome to the Library’s underground catacombs to view the extensive record, posters and Riley collection.
Cowen Gallery: Explore how this gallery space holds its own collection of love stories. Including the story of how a handwritten letter hidden behind a painting in this space made its way to Rebel Heart.
Redmond Barry Reading Room: Learn about the Library’s founder Sir Redmond Barry, and his turbulent love life.
This tour is suitable for children aged 12 and above.
Tours run on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, excluding public holidays.
Meeting point: Please meet your guide in Hansen Hall via Mr Tulk Cafe on La Trobe Street.
Please note: Video and photography in back-of-houses spaces is not permitted. This tour visits some small, enclosed spaces and includes taking stairs – alternative accessible route are available upon request. Please call 03 8664 7000 or email slvtickets@slv.vic.gov.au