Ordering copies of collection items

Copies of collection items can be provided to you in TIFF (highest quality, suitable for reproduction in books, exhibitions and lectures) or PDF format. Files are delivered to you as a digital download or on CD.

You can use our service:

  • where self-service copying options (photocopying, scanning and photographing) aren't possible – for example, an item is too fragile or it isn't convenient for you to come to the Library and make your own copy
  • where you want a copy of an item that hasn't yet been digitised and made available for free download via the catalogue
  • where you want a custom version of an item already digitised and available through the catalogue.

Please note that some items can't be copied; for example, because they are too fragile, rare or valuable.

What can be copied

Subject to copyright and other conditions, you can order copies of:

  • pictures, maps and manuscripts
  • books, newspapers and journal articles.

Many items are available in digital format via our subscriptions to journal and ebook publisher databases and websites, and can be downloaded or printed for free. Where items are not available in this way, you can order a digital copy (conditions apply).

How to place an order

1. Search our catalogue for the item you wish to have copied.
2. View the catalogue record and check if a free downloadable TIFF (high-quality image) or JPEG (lower-quality image) is already available for that item. If so, you do not need to order a copy (unless you require a custom version).
3. Look for the 'Order a copy' link on the catalogue record's full details screen in the 'Availability' and 'Other links' sections. (If this link does not appear in the catalogue record, the item is not suitable for copying and you cannot order a copy.) Click the link to be taken to our Direct Delivery online copy ordering service.
4. Sign in to our Direct Delivery online copy ordering service. You may do this in either of two ways: if you are a State Library Victoria member, you can sign in with your Library membership barcode number and last name; if you are not a Library member, you can sign in using your Direct Delivery user name and password. (You can become a Library member or register for a Direct Delivery account by providing some simple contact details.)
5. Complete your order and make your payment by following the on-screen instructions. Payment is by credit card only and prices vary according to material type, output and quantity. Online help is available at every stage.

Price list

Original formatOutput formatPrice A$ inc GST
Books & journal articles (per citation)PDF
TIFF (standard)
TIFF (custom)
$16.50 for every 50 pages
$22.00 per page
$35.00 per page
Newspapers (per citation)PDF
TIFF (standard)
TIFF (custom)
$16.50 for every 50 pages
$22.00 per page
$35.00 per page
Pictures, photographs,
maps & architectural drawings
TIFF (standard)
TIFF (custom)
$22.00 each
$35.00 each
Manuscripts (per collection)PDF
TIFF (standard)
TIFF (custom)
$16.50 for every 50 pages
$22.00 per page
$35.00 per page

Delivery fees

LocationMethodPrice A$
All locationsFile downloadFree
State Library Victoria, MelbourneCollect in personFree
Australian states including VictoriaAustralia Post (standard)$4.40
Australian states including VictoriaAustralia Post (express)$8.80
InternationalAustralia Post (standard)$22.00

All prices are quoted in Australian dollars and all charges will be processed in Australian dollars. GST is removed from all international orders before payment.

Prices are subject to change without notification and total amounts payable are subject to confirmation. The Library will notify you by email or phone if there are any changes to the total cost of an order.

Payment is by credit card only: MasterCard, Visa and American Express. Turnaround time is 15 working days.

For more information, phone our Direct Delivery online copy ordering service on 03 8664 7159 or email directdelivery@slv.vic.gov.au.