Dome to Catacombs tour of the State Library

Take an unforgettable journey through the architectural marvels of Australia’s oldest public library on this exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour.

Established in 1854 and spanning an entire city block, State Library Victoria holds many hidden spaces and stories. On this tour, you’ll start at the top of the magnificent Dome in the La Trobe Reading Room and descend to the hidden “catacombs” below the Library.

Join a guided tour at 10:30am or 1:30pm on select days each week. Runs until 30 May 2025

Highlights of the tour:

• Pendulum Staircase: See this architectural feature that is normally off-limits to the public.
• Card Catalogue Room: Get a glimpse of the Library’s historic card cataloging systems.
• The Elephant Lift: Visit the unique lift used to transport stuffed elephants when the building served as Melbourne Museum.

Meeting Point: Please meet your guide at Hansen Hall, located in the Swanston Street Welcome Zone.

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