State Library Victoria

It's such a well-known landmark in Melbourne that I made sure to visit during my trip.

Established in 1854, it's the oldest public library in Australia and one of the world's first free public libraries — a place with a truly remarkable history.

The octagonal La Trobe Reading Room, completed in 1913, was reportedly the world's largest reinforced concrete dome at the time.
Looking down from above, the radially arranged oak desks and green-shaded reading lamps create a breathtaking visual.

The grand and scholarly atmosphere of this place somehow stirs a genuine urge to study just by being here.

The inside was so quiet and solemn that we held our breath and quietly blended in among the people deep in study.
Surrounded by this space buzzing with academic energy, we spent our time busily picking out a dinner restaurant instead of reading any books.

If you come to Melbourne, I'd recommend not just snapping photos and leaving — take a moment to quietly absorb the atmosphere of this vast historical space.