Library services are delivered in the context of a University-wide Learning Commons. The Learning Commons puts the student "at the centre" with co-located support services from IT, Careers, Maths Support and Writing Support to create a dynamic environment for learning and teaching.
In addition to offering traditional library collections and services, the Library provides flexible social, group and individual study spaces and extensive student computing services, with access to staff expertise for a supported learning experience.
Strategic plan
Our strategic plan outlines our mission, vision and priorities for service delivery. We also report on the year's achievements and provide a concise summary of our activities.
Client Survey
The Library conducts surveys every two years as part of its quality and planning processes.
Download the 2017 Library Client Survey: Results & Action
VU Library Services
The University Library provides:
- Access to extensive and high quality electronic and print information resources to support learning, teaching and research
- Access to additional collections at other Australian universities and Victorian TAFE libraries
- Document request services for staff and higher degree research students
- Open access repository for University research publications and theses
- Management of the University Art Collection
- High-quality student computing and printing services with internet access and wireless connectivity
- Flexible learning spaces for individual quiet study, group work and social learning.
Help and support:
- Knowledgeable and accurate assistance: in person, via web, live chat, email and phone
- Research skills development and training for independent learning
- Support and training for researchers and research students
- Repository service for research reporting purposes and support for University digital publishing
- Copyright training, guidance and support
- Selected services for members of the general community.
Contact the Library if you have a question or would like to provide feedback.
Collection Development
The Victoria University Library provides access to printed materials, electronic publications and other media formats to support the University’s teaching and research programs. Both current and retrospective materials are collected. The coverage is national and international in scope. There is no restriction on the purchase of foreign language material although the collection is predominately English Language.
Collection strengths, beyond the expected undergraduate requirements, have been and will continue to be developed as long as they are required to support University teaching and research. Currently collection strengths are in the areas of:
- Law
- Osteopathy
- Human movement
- Exercise science
- Sport
- Recreation
- South-East Asian studies
- Women’s studies (monographs)
- Communist and Socialist theory and politics (specifically in Australia and Russia).
Special Collections have been and will continue to be developed in the areas of:
- Australian History; Literature and Art
- Town Planning and Social Policy
- Australian Left Wing Political Groups
- Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Region
- Union of Australian Women
- Multicultural studies and immigration issues
- Timor-Leste.
Download the complete text of the Library's Collection Development Policy.
Senior Library managers
Ralph Kiel
University Librarian
+61 3 9919 4946 | ralph.kiel@vu.edu.au
Adrian Gallagher
Associate Librarian Information Resources Systems & Infrastructure
+61 3 9919 4503 | adrian.gallagher@vu.edu.au
Frances O'Neil
Associate Librarian Scholarly Information Services
+61 3 9919 4065 | frances.oneil@vu.edu.au
Further details for Library Leadership Team and the College Librarians are available on the VU Staff Intranet (requires VU login when off campus).
