The State Library of Victoria’s leaders have decreed it shall now be a pleasure dome (‘State Library to slash staff, services’, 22/11), ranked third in the world for foot traffic.
This is a false measure.
The world’s other great libraries remain citadels for quiet contemplation and study.
When the colonial authorities introduced the lauded innovations of the 1850s, such as the secret ballot, the eight-hour day, and a free-thinking newspaper, Redmond Barry defined his free public library as ‘an emporium of learning’.
In an era of Artificial Intelligence and fake news, a place for Victorians to pursue their own research is more urgent than ever.
You can help
- Sign the Petition
Ask your friends to sign as well.
There are 2 petitions: Change.org and Megaphone. We suggest you sign both. - Write to your local state member expressing your concerns.
You may find it useful to also write to the Premier and the “Arts Industry Minister”
Your membership of the RHSV gives you a special role in safeguarding the history and culture of this state.
In your signature, you might want to mention your membership of the RHSV and other organisations to which you belong.
239 A'Beckett Street Melbourne, Victoria, 3000 
03 9326 9288 
office@historyvictoria.org.au 
Office & Library: Weekdays 9am-5pm
