The Library of the New Law Courts.

Scarce engraving of the Supreme Court library in 1878 within  the court complex and surmounted by an internal dome covered by the external  dome which once dominated the Melbourne skyline. The library’s interior is a circular space under the dome, sparsely furnished but for a decagonal table surrounding a magnificent central gasolier, with reading recesses and rooms on each floor.

On May 13, 1853 The Argus made an announcement that: “His Honour Mr Justice Barry yesterday intimated that he would be glad if the Gentlemen of the Bar would nominate two of their body and select two of the other profession to meet him tomorrow at his Chambers, Supreme Court, at two o’clock to determine on such a selection of Law Books, as it might be judged necessary to form the contemplated law library for the use of the profession. His Honour likewise intimated that he had now a fund of £296 in hand from fees, etc., for the purchase of books”. This was the foundation of the Library Committee. Work began on the new Trial Building at the corner of William and Lonsdale Streets in 1874. The building was finished in 1884 and was occupied by the Supreme and County Courts.

From the original edition of the Australasian Sketcher.