Endowed by the Hansen Little Foundation, the Conversation Quarter connects the Library across Victoria and around the world with its live-streaming capability, staging and lighting.

This space is reserved for large events and programs, and is closed to public access.

This state-of-the-art public forum is equipped with the latest two-way broadcast technology to take Library events and programs to schools, libraries and homes around Australia, and bring the world’s best events and experiences to Victoria.

About the Conversation Quarter

The Conversation Quarter opened in December 2019 as part of the Library’s Vision2020 redevelopment project.

Part of the Quad, this north-west courtyard space previously housed the Library’s Genealogy Centre and the Courtyard, a unique bluestone-walled events venue.

With a flexible floor plan and seating options ranging from formal to casual, the Conversation Quarter can accommodate small seminars through to fabulous larger functions.

If you’re planning a major conference, the Conversation Quarter can be hired as a complementary venue for events held in the Village Roadshow Theatrette or Conference Centre.

Facilities

• large flexible floor space
• natural light
• 5m x 2.8m digital media wall
• integrated state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment
• adjacent to the Conference Centre

Wheelchair access

Swanston Street Welcome Zone: use the ramp at La Trobe Street, near the corner of Swanston Street.
Russell Street Welcome Zone: use Entry 5 via La Trobe Street, near the corner of Russell Street.
Conference Centre and Village Roadshow Theatrette: access via Entry 3 on La Trobe Street.
Cafes: visit our pop-up cafe via Entry 5, La Trobe Street. Enter Mr Tulk via the ramp at La Trobe Street, Entry 2.

Courtesy wheelchair

A courtesy wheelchair is available for visitors attending Library events and exhibitions. Please note that we are unable to provide staff to push wheelchairs. To book or make further inquiries, contact the Access and Inclusion Librarian on 8664 7005 or email accessinclusion@slv.vic.gov.au.

Accessible toilets

There are separate male and female accessible toilets in these Library spaces:

• Hansen Hall, just near the entrance to Mr Tulk, in the Swanston Street Welcome Zone on Level 2 (ground floor)
• Gateway, Level 2 (ground floor), adjacent to the lifts
• Russell Street Welcome Zone, via Entry 5 on La Trobe Street
• The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall
• The Children’s Quarter, Level 2 (ground floor), has joint facilities for carers and children.

For more Access information please head to the State Library Website