Welcome to the Melbourne Athenaeum

Athenaeum Library
I shelve romance
& turn to crime
- Mary Hind, library member, moving galleries

The Melbourne Athenaeum is Victoria's oldest cultural institution and still a focus of cultural activity in the heart of the city's Central Business District. Located at 188 Collins Street, (around the corner from the Town Hall and across from the Regent Theatre) this heritage building offers a range of facilities including a bistro, retail opal shop (with a range of Australian art for sale) and, of course, the famous Melbourne Athenaeum Library .

The Melbourne Athenaeum
Melbourne Athenaeum
Founded in 1839 the Melbourne Athenaeum has always been a leader in the cultural life of the city, identifying and supporting new trends and continuing old traditions. The Library, with its timber bookshelves and comfortable chairs, provides its members with a club-like facility. The Library also provides a range of activities for members and for the public, including author talks, readings and children's activities.

The building reflects the Athenaeum's branding statement, The Melbourne Athenaeum — the Pleasure of Words.

 

The Athenaeum Library at a Glance
The Melbourne Athenaeum Library at a glance  

 
The library collection comprises over 60.000 books and growing... 

  Escape Melbourne's hustle and bustle in our reading room.

Want to become a member?
Please download and complete an application form.