The 50th Anniversary of Toorak/South Yarra Library

Published on 15 August 2023

Toorak/South Yarra Library celebrates its 50th birthday this year. 

Over one big weekend in August, more than 500 community members visited the Toorak/South Yarra Library to celebrate its 50-year anniversary.

Children and adults took part in a variety of free, fun activities for the community. This included Storytime with the Mayor, a community storytelling and portraiture project, a DIY badgemaking craft station, window art installation, a big toys playroom, live theatre and live music.

Some members of our amazing community also took the time to share why they love the library:

“There are lots of good books, lots of space and the staff is so nice. I love the library!” (Evanka, aged 11 years)

“The staff are lovely, friendly and so helpful. The study space is full of natural light, it is open and calming. Library card was easy to activate (thanks to the help of the staff), printing is pain free and we can borrow seeds! Also, free/complimentary women’s products saved me today. Thank you!” (Ashleigh, aged 23 years)

Collecting your library moments

Throughout the year, we are capturing and sharing your memories of the Toorak/South Yarra Library.

Does our library hold a special place in your heart? Did you attend storytime as a child, study for uni exams or catch a film in the downstairs cinema in the 1970s? Did you work from our library or see your favourite author speak here?

We'd love to hear from you.

About Toorak/South Yarra Library

Toorak/South Yarra Library was designed by Yuncken Freeman Architects and opened on 19 August 1973.

With a growing local population, two existing branches of the Prahran Council Library Service, one located in the Toorak Village at 482 Toorak Road, and the other at 162 Toorak Road were merged. The site for the new library at 340 Toorak Road, South Yarra, was chosen as it was approximately midway between the previous two branches.

From the outset, Prahran Council wanted its new library to ‘make a unique architectural contribution to Melbourne’. It achieved its vision by appointing Melbourne-founded Yuncken Freeman Architects (who also designed the Sidney Myer Music Bowl). The building was recognised by the National Trust as a significant example of modern architecture in Australia.

Toorak/South Yarra Library continues to be a vital hub for community life in Stonnington.