narrm ngarrgu Library at Queen Victoria Market is a wonderful Melbourne public library that will ignite a love of reading in your child’s life.
narrm ngarrgu (pronounced nahrrm narr-GUW) translates to ‘Melbourne Knowledge’ in Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung language. Located in the Queen Victoria Market precinct, the new 3000 m2 space has been designed so people of all ages can explore their interests and learn something new.
The building spans three levels of the Munro development and features a dedicated children’s library, a family services centre, bookable spaces and a community rooftop garden overlooking the Queen Victoria Market sheds and stunning city skyline.
With a world of adventures tucked into every corner, find out why narrm ngarrgu Library is one of Melbourne’s best libraries for families.
The Newest Library in Melbourne
narrm ngarrgu opened in November 2023 and is Melbourne CBD’s first new library in almost a decade and one of only two libraries in the city (the others being State Library of Victoria and City Library).
City of Melbourne worked alongside First Nations Elders, artists and community to reflect their knowledge systems. The name, the materials, artworks – even the design of the carpet – honours and celebrates First Nations.
The obvious care with which the external and internal designs have been brought to life gives the public space a very warm, welcoming and thoughtful feel. It is in no way sterile and I am absolutely delighted as soon as I walk into the space.
Melbourne CBD Library Haven For Families
The library is an oasis for families looking for a quiet, calm space amidst the bustling city and Queen Victoria Market.
Take the lift straight to level 3 – a whole floor dedicated to a children’s library. The corridor from the lift to the library entrance is lined with mirrors and native animals – the kids will love looking at themselves and spotting creatures!
Once inside the children’s library, you’ll find thousands of books in a light-filled space.
I’m a member of many libraries in Melbourne and I think Melbourne Library Services has one of the best book collections.
The library has over 30,000 books; 22,000 for adults and 8000 for children! There are books in a variety of languages including Chinese, Japanese and Korean. It also features an English as an Additional Language collection.
My kids have a lot of fun returning their books on the rainbow-coloured shelf!
As well as shelves of books there is a Nintendo Switch that families can play together, a parents’ room and a comfortable playroom filled with cushions and picture books.
The playroom is also where activities and events for children of all ages are held, including storytime, craft sessions and book clubs.
For some fresh air and amazing views step out onto the secure rooftop garden terrace with sculptures that inspire imaginative play. There’s also a small water play feature for the warmer months.
Other Melbourne Library Services
Adults will love narrm ngarrgu too! Pop in to browse the extensive book collection, admire the artworks or borrow laptops for study, work or play.
Explore your creativity in the makerspace with 3D printers, laser cutters, paint booths, sewing machines and two sound studios for podcast and audio recording.
There is also a community study and events space and bookable meeting rooms.
The new Family Services centre at narrm ngarrgu provides a holistic range of services, including maternal and child health, parenting services, immunisation and family support and counselling.
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