Baptism of the Palace of Knowledge——Visit to the State Library of Victoria

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 Walking into the State Library of Victoria in the heart of Melbourne is like walking into a palace of knowledge full of history and culture. This library, founded in 1856, is not only one of the oldest public libraries in Australia, but also a public space that combines historical architecture with modern functions, making people linger. The first thing that struck me was the iconic La Trobe Reading Room. The circular dome design is magnificent, the indoor lighting is soft, and the neatly arranged wooden desks and bookshelves around it give people a strong academic atmosphere. Reading or sitting quietly here, you seem to be able to communicate with the thoughts of past generations of intellectuals and experience the sedimentation of years of books. In addition to the main reading room, the library also has several exhibition spaces that showcase Australia's rich history, culture, art and Aboriginal heritage. On the day of the visit, I had the honor of viewing a photography exhibition about Melbourne’s urban development. Through precious historical photos, I learned how this city transformed from a colonial town into today’s multicultural city. What is even more commendable is that the library is not only a place for academic research, but also dedicated to promoting public education and cultural popularization. From the children's reading area, computer equipment to various free lectures and workshops, it demonstrates its value as a "national library". This visit is not just a simple sightseeing trip, but also a baptism of soul and knowledge. The State Library of Victoria not only bears witness to the development of Australian culture, but also inspires me to rethink the meaning of public space and learning. If I have the chance to come to Melbourne again, I will definitely return to this peaceful and inspiring world of books.