Children's Literature

The State Library of Victoria's vast collection of children's literature offers a unique insight into the changing social trends in children's publishing.

What's in the Children's Literature Collection?

Comprising over 84,000 books published between the 16th and 21st centuries, the Library's Children's Literature Collection draws together three separate collections.

Children's Literature Research Collection

Established in 1976, this collection contains a broad selection of early Australian and contemporary literature as well as English language books that have been published overseas. These include picture books, works of fiction, poetry, folk tales, myths and legends. Award-winning children's books and a wide range of related reference materials also form part of the collection.

Ken Pound Collection

Acquired from a private collector in 1994, this collection consists of early to mid-20th century Australian and New Zealand children's books, pamphlets, music, songs, games and ephemera. It not only contains a huge range of extremely rare popular works but includes little known ephemeral materials by Australia's first major children's book illustrator Ida Rentoul Outhwaite.

Rare Children's Books Collection

This collection includes the Library's oldest children's book, The Scholemaster, which was published in 1571. It also contains tiny chapbooks sold by itinerant salesmen in the 19th century, John and Betty readers, pop-up books, games, boys and girls annuals, early alphabet books, Victorian toy books, Edwardian gift books, limited editions and signed copies.

How can I access material in this collection?

Items in the Children's Literature collection can be requested through the catalogue and will be delivered to the book collection point in either the Information Centre or the La Trobe Reading Room. Rare books in this collection are held in storage and can only be viewed by appointment in the Heritage Collections Reading Room.