Protecting the past, reimagining the future at the Baillieu Library

Something new is taking shape at the Baillieu Library

Heading past the Baillieu Library? There’s something new to see – and an exciting story behind it.

The south side of the Baillieu Library is looking a little more colourful than usual, thanks to a new hoarding and internal installation marking the start of an exciting chapter for the library.

A gallery-style hoarding installation now surrounds the Baillieu Library, while work continues on the Lower Ground floor to create a new home for the Special Collections. Featuring artwork and imagery from the Baillieu Library Archives and Special Collections, the display offers a preview of the remarkable material being protected. It also extends inside the library across the Ground and First floors and into the new quiet space.

The display aims to inspire students while the Lower Ground floor is transformed into a purpose-built, climate-controlled space for some of the University’s most significant holdings, including the Rare Books, Rare East Asian, Prints & Drawings, Rare Maps, and Rare Music collections.

Built with sustainability in mind

The redevelopment is a priority project under the University’s Estate Master Plan and will give the Special Collections team a fit-for-purpose, long-term home within the Baillieu Library. The new storage environment will provide climate control, fire protection and security measures appropriate to the significance of the collections. The project supports Strategy 2030’s commitment to a resilient university built on strong and sustainable physical foundations. By safeguarding one of the University’s most significant knowledge collections for future generations, the redevelopment also supports Strategy 2030’s commitment to serving and connecting Country, people and community. It will help ensure the collections remain accessible to researchers, students and the public for decades to come.

Why it's important

Consistent with the University’s commitment to sustainability, the hoarding structure uses upcycled and recycled materials supplied by circular economy business saveBOARD. These materials include shredded and compressed composite packaging and soft plastics commonly found on construction sites.

Want to know more?

For full details on the Baillieu Library Special Collections redevelopment, including how to access the Special Collections during construction, and project updates and timelines, visit the dedicated project webpage.