Reference desk

Young woman, standing, wearing pleated skirt, holding pile of books, 1966. Photo by Mark Strizic. This work is in copyright. H2009.81/4079

Discovering Dewey 305.42: Women and their role in society

March 8, 2024

Ask a librarian, Collection spotlights, Reference desk:

Most of the books in our collections are arranged by the Dewey Decimal Classification System. Join us on a tour of our stacks to explore Dewey number 305.42, which covers the subject of women and their role in society

Paris is always a good idea

Paris is always a good idea

March 17, 2023

Ask a librarian, Cities & towns, Photography, Reference desk:

Read about the time Paris lost itself in Melbourne. Good thing we found it and gave it back to the world! Here’s the fascinating story of a collection that everyone believed to be lost.

The treasure that is Trove: why reference librarians love it

The treasure that is Trove: why reference librarians love it

March 15, 2023

Ask a librarian, Reference desk, Research tips:

On any given day here at State Library Victoria you may hear librarians wax lyrical about the wonders of Trove. Yet for many library users it can be a bit of a mystery. So what is Trove, how do librarians at State Library Victoria use it and why should you use it, too? (Hint: it’s free!) 

Collection connections: romance & a rock poster 

Collection connections: romance & a rock poster 

June 7, 2022

Ask a librarian, Collection spotlights, Reference desk:

We take a look at a concert poster from our collection and explore the meaning it holds for one of our Library members

The secrets of Black Rock house

The secrets of Black Rock house

September 29, 2020

Ask a librarian, Our stories, Reference desk, Victorian history:

Learn about the mysteries that have surrounded Black Rock house since its construction over 160 years ago

The grandstand in Beech Forest

The grandstand in Beech Forest

July 13, 2020

Ask a librarian, Our stories, Reference desk, Victorian history:

A grandstand made out of a tree stump? A racecourse in a forest? Join us as we ponder our question of the week.