Founded in 1839, the Melbourne Athenaeum is one of the city's oldest cultural institutions. Its Collins St location housed the city's first official library, art gallery, museum and exhibition space. 

As Melbourne became a more complex city the Athenaeum evolved to accommodate the changing needs and sophisticated pastimes of its residents - something it has done consistently since.

Today, the Melbourne Athenaeum Library is the centrepiece and public face of our institution. Through the generous support of donors we have been able to improve library facilities, including better shelving and more comfortable furniture, and undertake work on our important archives collection.

Thank you for considering a tax-deductible donation that will help ensure the future of one of Melbourne’s cultural icons.