World of the Book
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this exhibition reveals the State Library Victoria's rarest and most-intriguing printed matter.
Overview
Delving into the State Library Victoria's immense collection, World of the Book is the organisation's annual reveal of its rarest and most prized books. Opening on Saturday, May 31, this free event features over 300 remarkable items from its coffers, with every book-lover sure to discover a treasured text that excites them.
Celebrating its 20th edition, World of the Book 2025 features some extra-special highlights. In an Australian first, the exhibition will feature the world's earliest recorded example of mass-printed text – the Hyakumantō Darani. Printed in Japan more than 1250 years ago, this series of Buddhist prayers and spells will go on public display for the first time.
To honour its major anniversary, the exhibition will also feature a collection of pieces displayed at the inaugural World of the Book event. This includes a manuscript made for Lorenzo de' Medici in 1478, when he was at the height of his power as Florence's de facto ruler. There's also an exploration of manga, alongside fan art inspired by Andy Griffiths's Treehouse series.
The exhibition is also stacked with a program of free events, helping visitors gain even more insight into the collection's rare books, as well as the broader culture around the printed word. For example, Senior Collection Curator Daniel Wee will share his favourite rare book covers on Monday, July 28, while fans of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland will experience a special treat on Friday, August 1.
Images: Eugene Hyland.
Information
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