The Library was founded in 1854 on principles of the right to access to information – one of the first free public libraries in the world. The UNESCO International Day for Universal Access to Information highlights the role access to information can play in contributing to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 16, which is to promote ‘just, peaceful and inclusive societies.’
Ask a librarian, Collection spotlights:
Attitudes to gender, sex, and sexuality have come a long way, and this database houses material that covers historical changes and related social movements. The oldest material dates back to the 16th century. Topics covered include LGBTQ studies, women studies, health and hygiene, sex education, and some forbidden books.
Ask a librarian, Victorian history:
The iconic Queen Victoria Market has been a central part of Melbourne life for 150 years. The Market’s social significance is a record of change and continuity in market activity over a long period
Ask a librarian, Victorian history:
The thrill – and challenge – of growing your own vegetables – from pots on a balcony to rural holdings can be given another dimension by growing organic. National Organic Week (12-18 September) is an opportunity to celebrate all things organic.
Ask a librarian, Victorian history:
Meet Marvellous Melbourne’s own Willy Wonka, E.W. Cole, author of Cole’s Funny Picture Books and the man behind the famous Cole’s Book Arcade, once spanning all the way from Bourke St Mall to Collins St.
Ask a librarian, Collection spotlights, Rare Books & Arts:
Explore the life and art of Fanny Anne Charsley, a botanical artist who lived in Melbourne during the mid 19th century and painted Victorian wild flowers.
![The lighthouse, Cape Schanck, Vic., [ca.1917] Shirley Jones collection of Victorian postcards. H90.140/264.](https://blogs.slv.vic.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/TheLighthouseCape-SchanckVic.-120x120.jpg)
Standing tall on rugged coastlines, lighthouses captivate the imagination. Dotting the Victorian coastline, they were lifesavers for ships navigating treacherous seas, seeking a safe harbour.
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Science fiction often focuses on the outward exploration of space and new worlds. In contrast, Australian science fiction writing is dominated by dystopic settings, featuring characters alienated from society. This blog post highlights some of the best Australian SF in the Library’s collection.
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Do you want to learn more about cultural appropriation and its impacts? Have you read Homer’s Odyssey and wondered ‘what about the women’s stories?’ Are you looking for histories and stories told from diverse perspectives? If you’ve asked these or other questions about diversity, equity and inclusion, then Proquest ebook central: Diversity, equity and inclusion is the database for you!
Ask a librarian, Our stories, Victorian history:
In 1918, at just 20 years of age, Alice Anderson founded what would go on to become Victoria’s first all-female motor garage. Her vision, as she would later tell magazine ‘Woman’s World’, was ‘to turn a trade into a profession for women.’
