Open House Tour

Discover the architectural evolution of Australia’s oldest public library in this behind-the-scenes tour for Open House Melbourne.

Established in 1854 and spanning an entire city block, State Library Victoria houses a combination of contemporary and historical spaces open to the public and utilised by staff.

This tour will journey through some of those locations; from the bright and modern Vision 2020 redevelopment down to the depths of the catacombs. Highlights include Library gems such as the Pendulum Staircase, Card Catalogue Room and the Elephant Lift, which was used to transport stuffed elephants when the building was home to Melbourne Museum.

Tours will run at 10.30am, 11am, 12pm, 12.30pm, 2pm and 2.30pm. Tours are capped at 12 people, and bookings are essential.

About Open House Melbourne

Open House Melbourne is a free event that takes place each year at the end of July, and offers the public a chance to explore the city’s most historic and significant buildings, religious structures and architectural monuments. Explore some of the best architectural accomplishments in the city – all for free, and for one weekend only. If you love history, architecture and design, you’ll love Open House Melbourne.