State Library Victoria

Families' Pick 2026 · Melbourne: picked by the Funtivities team as a standout for families in Melbourne.

Last updated October 2026

Victoria's state library in the city, home to the free Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter with books, play areas and daily drop-in craft for under-12s.

State Library Victoria is Victoria's state library on Swanston Street in the city. For families, the main draw is the Pauline Gandel Children's Quarter, a free space for children up to 12 years and their parents and carers, entered from the Quad on Level 2 (ground floor). It has more than 4000 children's books, reading nooks, play areas, craft activities and board games. Free drop-in play and craft activities run daily (Monday, Wednesday and Friday 11am to 1pm; Tuesday, Thursday and weekends 3pm to 5pm), with Baby Bounce, Toddler Tales and Storytime on Mondays and Wednesdays, plus school holiday programs. Facilities include a family room with baby change and breastfeeding facilities, child-height toilets and pram parking. Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times. As of October 2026 the Library is open daily 10am to 6pm, closed on New Year's Day, Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Facts checked against the venue's own website on 17 October 2026.