eHive Object Details

Name/TitleMelbourne Public Library, Swanston Street, Melbourne, c. 1890

About this objectThis photograph of Melbourne Public Library, now State Library of Victoria, located on the east side of Swanston Street between Little Lonsdale and La Trobe streets, has been taken from the opposite, west side of Swanston Street.

The library was built in stages to a design by Joseph Reed, the foundation stone being laid in 1853.

The central part of the Swanston Street wing, opened in 1856, is shown in the image, with the Classical portico constructed later, in 1870. Part of the south wing, completed 1859, and part of the north wing, completed 1864, are also seen. The wrought iron gates and enclosing fence were added during the 1870s.

The two bronze lions flanking the entry, installed during the 1860s, can just be seen, with a memorial statue of Sir Redmond Barry on the central landing of the main stairs, placed in 1887.

Two street lamps stand at curb in front of the library. Tram lines run along Swanston Street in the foreground.

One of the many glass slides purchased from retailers or specifically made for illustrated lectures given by Isaac Selby between c. 1930 and c. 1955 to raise money for the Old Pioneers Memorial Fund.

For more information about this image contact Royal Historical Society of Victoria

Measurements8.2 x 8.2 cm

Period1890-1900

Object TypePhotograph

Subject and Association KeywordsSelby, Isaac, 1859-1956

Subject and Association KeywordsReed, Joseph, 1823?-1890.

Subject and Association KeywordsReed and Barnes (Architects)

Subject and Association KeywordsMonuments and memorials

Subject and Association KeywordsSwanston Street (Melbourne, Vic.)

Subject and Association KeywordsStatues

Subject and Association KeywordsBarry, Redmond, Sir, 1813-1880.

Subject and Association KeywordsState Library of Victoria

Subject and Association KeywordsHistoric buildings and sites

Subject and Association KeywordsMelbourne (Victoria.)

Subject and Association KeywordsHoddle Grid

Named CollectionImages collection

Object numberGS-BCS-29

Copyright LicenceAll rights reserved