Victorian Mechanics' Institutes
The first Victorian Mechanics' Institute was established in 1839, with over 500 remaining today. At least six of these Institutes continue to run library services. The operation of Mechanics’ Institutes in Victoria, particularly in relation to the sale or transfer of land, comes under Section 4 of the Libraries Act 1988, which is the responsibility of the Minister for Local Government.
A detailed report on the Library of the Mechanics’ Institute of Australia (PDF 258 KB) has been produced by Frances Clancy on behalf of the Department of Planning and Community Development.
For more information about Mechanics’ Institutes, visit The Mechanics Institutes of Victoria Inc.