Viewing Items by Appointment

Because many items in the Library's collections are old, rare, fragile or historically significant, they need to be carefully stored and handled. Held in the Library's heritage collections, which include maps, pictures, rare books and manuscripts, these items can only be viewed under supervision.

If you have identified an item in one of our heritage collections that you would like to view, you will need to make an appointment.

How do I make an appointment?

If you are at the Library you can make an appointment at the La Trobe Reading Room to view items from the Maps, Rare Books, Children's Literature, Australian Manuscripts and Pictures collections.

If you are unable to visit the Library, you can telephone the La Trobe Reading Room on 03 8664 7009 between 10am and 6pm, seven days a week.

Where do I view these materials?

Most materials will be delivered to the Heritage Collections Reading Room, which is clearly identified on the Library floor plan. Some materials, like maps, are delivered directly to the appropriate specialist reading room.

Delivery times

During the week there are specific delivery times for pre-ordered heritage materials available on site. The following ordering cut-off times apply:

• 10am - order the previous day
• 1pm - order by 12pm
• 4pm - order by 3pm.

Some heritage materials are stored off site in Ballarat. Ordering cut-off times apply:

• Tuesday to Thursday - order by 3pm on the previous day
• Saturday, Sunday and Monday - order by 3pm on the preceding Thursday.

Weekend deliveries

Orders for weekend deliveries must be placed by 3pm on Friday.

Research assistance appointments

You can also make an appointment to talk to one of our specialist librarians if you need assistance locating material that is not in the catalogue. Appointments can be made at the La Trobe Reading Room information desk or by phoning 03 8664 7009. Staff will lodge your request for an appointment and a staff member from the specialist collection you are interested in will ring you to confirm a time as soon as possible.