State Library Victoria（维多利亚州立图书馆）丨澳大利亚墨尔本

State Library Victoria is a major public library in Melbourne that houses the State Collection and welcomes millions of visitors each year. Established in 1854 as the Melbourne Public Library, it is Australia’s oldest public library and one of the first free public libraries in the world. The library opened to the public in 1856 and was often described as “the people’s university,” reflecting its goal of providing knowledge and education to everyone.

The library was founded during a time when education and literacy were mainly accessible to privileged groups. Its founders believed that open access to knowledge was essential for building a fair and prosperous society. Today, the library continues to serve as a place where people can read, study, research, create, and exchange ideas. It attracts a wide range of visitors, including students, researchers, creatives, entrepreneurs, and tourists.

State Library Victoria still promotes values such as universal education, freedom of expression, social justice, sustainable communities, and active participation in society