State Library Victoria, Children’s Quarter Melbourne
State Library Victoria had a major transformation in 2019 with a range of new upgrades including a fantastic children’s quarter where children and families can read, learn and play, with a fantastic program of activities that families will love. It is one of the best free things to do in Melbourne with kids.
State Library Victoria – Melbourne for Kids
Encouraging our kids to love reading from the very beginning is so important as kids who love to read will have the advantage in life. One way to teach kids to love reading is to start taking them to libraries from an early age, so they can appreciate books.
The State Library Victoria first opened it’s doors to the public in 1856 and now spans a whole city block with a range of different spaces.
Families will love the Pauline Gandel Children’s Quarter which opened in December 2019 when the space was redeveloped.
It is a free, purpose-built space for children aged up to 12 years which has a range of family friendly activities.
Spanning two floors the Children’s Quarter features a spectacular two-storey children’s castle. In the upper section you will find a dedicated space designed for kids aged 8 to 12 years. In the lower section you will find a fun space for younger children.
There are plenty of little reading nooks, a fun play space and more than 4000 children’s books, including Braille books and books in languages other than English.
The great thing is that because the areas are zoned, they cater for children as they grow.
So, you can find targeted areas for babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, primary schoolers and pre-teens.
Story time and Baby Bounce are a hit with the little ones, and there are some fantastic school holiday programs for the older ones.
The baby/toddler area is pram friendly and you can bring food and drinks. There is even a private family room for breastfeeding with change facilities and toilets for kids and adults.
Tips for visiting State Library with Kids
- You can easily spend a few hours so allow enough time.
- Make sure to check the website for scheduled events throughout the week
- Free weekly story time sessions
- Snacks and drinks are allowed only inside the baby/toddler area
- Family room for feeding and change facilities
- Lift access between levels
- Pram friendly kids areas
- Children must be supervised at all times. Area is not contained.
- No onsite parking. Paid parking on Latrobe Street, Melbourne Central or Melbourne museum
- Can’t get to the library? See where to find free story books online
Details
Address:
328 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC
Opening Hours:
10am – 6pm Daily
Website
Melbourne Activities for Kids
State Library Victoria is a fantastic place to take the kids for a morning or afternoon out. If you are looking for more things to see and do in Melbourne with kids, make sure to check out MELBOURNE WITH KIDS for activities, or MELBOURNE EVENTS for the latest events! Follow Mum’s Little Explorers on Facebook and join the Melbourne for Kids Facebook Group.
