What Are Some of the Best Places to Read in Melbourne?
Melbourne has plenty of relaxing places for book lovers, from the historic State Library Victoria and its famous La Trobe Reading Room to quiet libraries, independent bookshops and outdoor spaces. City Library, Readings Carlton, The Paperback Bookshop, Emerald Hill Library, and the State Library forecourt are also great options for reading, studying or discovering new books. Whether you prefer a peaceful indoor setting or reading outdoors, Melbourne has something for every reader.
Melbourne Sphere editors · Editorial team
3 min read
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Melbourne is a fantastic city for book lovers, with grand historic libraries, peaceful reading rooms, independent bookshops and relaxed outdoor spaces. Whether you want a quiet place to concentrate or somewhere atmospheric to spend an afternoon with a novel, there are plenty of options.
Here are some of the best places to read in Melbourne.
1. State Library Victoria
State Library Victoria is arguably the most iconic place to read in Melbourne. The magnificent La Trobe Reading Room features its famous octagonal dome and provides an impressive setting for reading and study. The library also has other dedicated reading spaces, including the Redmond Barry Reading Room.
The library is open daily from 10am to 6pm, making it convenient for both morning and afternoon reading sessions.
Best for: Historic surroundings, quiet reading and study.
2. City Library
Located on Flinders Lane, City Library is a convenient choice if you're already exploring Melbourne's CBD.
It offers a practical city-centre environment where you can settle down with a book, study or spend some quiet time away from the busy streets.
Best for: Convenient CBD reading and study.
3. Readings Carlton
Readings Carlton is a great stop for people who enjoy the atmosphere of an independent bookshop.
Located on Lygon Street, it is surrounded by Carlton's cafés and restaurants, making it easy to combine browsing for books with a relaxed afternoon in the neighbourhood.
Best for: Book lovers and browsing new releases.
4. The Paperback Bookshop
For readers who enjoy discovering books in a traditional bookshop environment, The Paperback Bookshop on Bourke Street is worth visiting.
Its central location makes it particularly convenient when exploring Melbourne's CBD, and its long opening hours give readers plenty of flexibility.
Best for: Independent-bookshop atmosphere and browsing.
5. State Library Forecourt
If you prefer reading outdoors, the lawn and forecourt around the State Library can provide a pleasant change from indoor reading rooms. The library describes its forecourt as a lively gathering space, with people relaxing and spending time outdoors.
Bring your favourite book, find a comfortable spot and enjoy the city atmosphere around Swanston Street.
Best for: Outdoor reading and people-watching.
6. Readings State Library
Readings State Library is located at the Russell Street entrance of the State Library Victoria. It offers a large selection of books and is a natural stop for anyone visiting the library.
You can browse the shelves, discover something new to read and then head into the library's reading spaces.
Best for: Finding your next book.
7. Emerald Hill Library
Located in South Melbourne, Emerald Hill Library offers an alternative to the busy CBD locations.
Its South Melbourne setting makes it a good option if you want a quieter neighbourhood environment for reading or studying.
Best for: A quieter South Melbourne reading experience.
8. RMIT Swanston Library
RMIT Swanston Library is another useful option in the CBD, particularly for students and people looking for a dedicated study environment.
The library has extended weekday hours, making it suitable for reading and study later in the day.
Best for: Students, studying and focused reading.
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