Overview
Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Join an exclusive 9.15am guided tour and experience the State Library Victoria's grand Dome and hidden spaces before the doors open to the public. Advance bookings essential.
Ever heard of the ‘Chief Shusher’? Wonder what’s buried beneath the Library’s floors? Or gazed up at the library Dome before the crowds?
On this early access tour, you’ll explore the Library’s magnificent heritage spaces and catacombs hidden beneath the library floors, discover the treasure trove of original card catalogues, and uncover one of Melbourne’s most infamous relationships between Library founder Sir Redmond Barry and the bushranger Ned Kelly.
Find a rare moment of quiet in the iconic Dome, soak in the architecture, and even stand where the ‘Shusher’ once reigned.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
State Library Victoria
Tour Highlights The Dome: Access the Library’s iconic Dome before it opens to the public and even sit in the chair usually reserved for the ‘Chief Shusher’! Ned Kelly: Learn about the infamous bushranger, his notorious rivalry with the Library’s founder and how his armour ended up at the Library Heritage card catalogues: Search through the Library’s old card catalogue systems Stories from Victoria’s cultural history: Your guide will share captivating stories that shaped the state of Victoria as you explore the history of the Library
Options
Guided Tour of Melbourne's Iconic State Library
What‘s Included
One hour guided tour
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Library yesterday and today.
Keith W,Jun 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great insight into how the library began and continued to grow until today. From the original building to all the additions to make such a grand library.
Margaret Williams
Margaret W,May 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent tour of the building, contents, history delivered by two well informed, knowledgeable tour guides.
Well worth it 👍
ElvistheSnowball,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Extremely interesting and informative tour of this beautiful library. Well worth visiting for the special stories and details of the characters who built this unique building. Warm and friendly tour guides. Highly recommend.
Great Stroll in a great Building
robertkB363WO,Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Was fantastic, the Guides were brilliant. The building is absolutely amazing. I would recommend others visiting this place.
This library is awesome ☺️
conermaxx102,Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The scenery here is overwhelming. If you want to find a feeling of being immersed in endless knowledge then come here. I really want come here every week :))
Related Experiences
Operated by State Library Victoria