is Victoria's major reference and research library. As well as its general collection of books, periodicals, newspapers, maps and other materials, it has a separate wing known as

which is Victoria's chief research centre and reference library for Australian history and literature. It is the State principal repository for manuscripts, historical pictures, newspapers and other library material relating to the history of Australia and the Pacific and especially to Victoria.

is a society founded in 1966 and, until 1984, known as the Friends of the La Trobe Library. Its objects are to assist, encourage and promote the interests of the State Library, by seeking Sponsorship and gifts for the Library and by searching for and obtaining books, manuscripts, pictures and other library material, particularly that which is of Australian interest.

The Friends' Patrons are: The Honorable Joan Kirner, M.L.A.; The Honorable John Cain, Q.C.; The Honorable Rupert Hamer, K.C.M.G., E.D.; Margaret Carnegie, A.O., O.A.M.; and Mrs. E.M. Borrow

The Committee of the Friends comprises: Gail Evans; Giovanna D'Abaco; Shona Dewar; John Holroyd; Yvonne Hurley; Beverley Joyce; and Assoc. Prof. Wallace Kirsop. The Acting Director of the State Library of Victoria (Mr Derek Whitehead), the La Trobe Librarian (Miss Dianne Reilly) and the Hon. Editor (Dr Teresa Pagliaro) are ex officio members of the Committee.

New Friends will be welcomed. The annual subscription for ordinary members is $36. Bookplate membership is available at an annual subscription of $100. Concessional membership (for pensioners and full-time students) is $16 per annum. Sponsor and donor memberships are also available. Membership and other enquiries can be addressed to the Friends of the State Library of Victoria, 328 Swanston Street, Melbourne, 3000, Victoria.