Reformers and reform: towards free public libraries in Victoria

Abstract

The Victorian Free Library Service Board Act of 1946 was the culmination of a long campaign to replace the mechanics’ institute model of library provision with free libraries funded by state and local government. Given that library reform required legislation by the state government, this paper is mainly concerned with the political campaign that led to the enactment of that legislation. The key players in the free library reform movement are identified as are the sorts of reforms they advocated. The paper also discusses impediments to reform, particularly the response of the Victorian government.