Become a Friend of the Library

The Friends of the Library have been the backbone of the Library's individual supporter network since 1965.

Our Friends visit the Library for a variety of reasons – to find out more about our collections, to further their work, pursue their studies or enjoy the Library's events. All of our Friends are passionate about the Library and the contribution it makes to our society.

In recognition of their support, Friends of the Library receive a range of exclusive on-site and offsite benefits, tailored to increase their enjoyment of the Library's spaces, collections, exhibitions and programs.

When you become a Friend of the Library, you receive the following benefits:

Access to the private Friends of the Library Lounge – a great place to work, meet friends and relax, and conveniently located off the La Trobe Reading Room. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, daily newspapers, access to computers and free wi-fi. Call us on 03 8664 7589 if you would like to have a guide on your first visit.

Invitations to Friends-only events, including talks by Creative Fellows, exhibition tours with curators and viewings of collection highlights

Annual subscription to the La Trobe Journal and a Friends eNews

10% discount on full-priced books at Readings at the Library

10% discount on food and beverages at the Moat Bar and Restaurant

10% discount on hot beverages at the Library's two cafes, Mr Tulk and Guild

Discounted parking at QV Melbourne: evenings, weekends and public holidays

Reciprocal rights at the National Library of Australia and other state libraries

Membership pricing (inc GST)

 Individual membershipCouples membership
  • One year: $85
  • Two years: $165
  • One year, regional*: $75
  • One year: $100
  • Two years: $190
  • One year, regional*: $90

*Residents of an address more than 100km from Melbourne.

Bookplate donors

When you join the Friends of the Library, you can also elect to make a tax-deductible bookplate donation.

A bookplate donation makes a perfect gift for a friend, family member or yourself. Your personal tribute will be placed inside a specially selected book in the State Library Victoria collection and preserved for future generations.

Select one of our Lewin, Audubon or Gould bookplates, named in honour of three iconic illustrators of the 19th century:

  • $175: John William Lewin (1770–1819)
  • $500: John James Audubon (1785–1851)
  • $1000: John (1804–81) and Elizabeth Gould (1804–41)

Make a bookplate donation

Become a Friend of the Library today and show your support for an enduring cultural landmark and one of Melbourne's most loved institutions.

Become a Friend