The library will close at 12 noon on Monday November 18 for our 185th birthday afternoon tea and not reopen for general library services until 10 am on Tuesday November 19.

Browse the Collection

Our beautiful first floor Library and Reading Room offers over 30,000 print, digital, and audio books, a range of magazine and newspaper subscriptions, and film and TV on DVD for borrowing and use in the library, and hosts regular music performances, talks, book and screen clubs, and other cultural events.

The library is open six days per week, and late on Wednesdays. Athenaeum members and visitors enjoy the historic atmosphere and quiet haven in a bustling city.

Members can borrow quality new releases and classics and one of Victoria's best collections of crime fiction and biography, up to 30 items at a time.

Browse the catalogue and log into your member account for more options.

Or meet like-minded members in one of the Athenaeum's book and screen clubs.

Visiting the Library

Visitors are welcome to attend our diverse range of events held in the library space, including music performances, talks, and play readings, or to come in to look around or browse - our staff and volunteers are happy to help with any questions you may have about the institution and its history.

You need to be a member to use the Library and Reading Room for an extended period.

Library Opening Hours

Mon/Tues/Thurs  10am - 6pm

Wednesday  10 am - 8 pm

Friday  10 am - 4 pm

Saturday  10 am - 2 pm

If you have questions or require assistance at any stage, please do not hesitate to contact the library. We are always happy to help. Email us at library@melbourneathenaeum.org.au.

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Circulation desk 2020 by Grace Petrou
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