Southbank’s secret military library 

Tucked away in an 1860s heritage building at Victoria Barracks lies the state’s premier military library, boasting a remarkable collection of more than 35,000 items. 

Recognised as a collection of “national significance” by the National Library of Australia, the Royal United Services Institute of Victoria (RUSIV) Library occupies a former guardhouse, a unique setting it has proudly called home for the past eight years.

This treasure trove includes an array of books, maps, pamphlets, newspapers, journals, and much more, all celebrating the rich tapestry of military history.

Wander through a labyrinth of bookshelves and display cases where you will uncover some of the most unique and valuable military artefacts, with a particular focus on Australia and New Zealand’s respective navy, army, and air forces.

While primarily frequented by researchers, students, and history buffs, the RUSIV Library is also open to the public, inviting locals to engage with Australia’s military past and future.

“You’ll find the unexpected here,” RUSIV member Mike O’Brien told Southbank News.

It’s a valuable collection, one of those sorts of mathematical impossibilities - its value is greater than the sum of its parts.

Mike’s favourite item in the collection? A remarkable assortment of military orders from the First World War.

As for Southbank News, it’s a tie between a series of framed maps used during the Gallipoli landing in 1915, and an impressive collection of wartime sheet music.

The RUSIV Library welcomes visitors two days a week, and while its location within the Barracks does involve some security procedures, accessing the collection is easier than you might think.

With just a phone call and 24 hours’ notice, along with an ID check at the gate, you can freely roam the shelves at your leisure. 

Mike and his dedicated team of volunteers are on hand to help you navigate the catalogue, should you be looking for anything in particular. 

Entry to the RUSIV Library is free, though borrowing privileges are reserved for RUSIV members. The entire catalogue can also be viewed online. 

“One of our problems is getting our existence known to the public,” Mike said.

“The main military enthusiasts know we’re here, but the general public doesn’t. We spend a lot of time and effort telling people, but our best medium is the occasional exhibition that will run, along with word of mouth.”

RUSIV was formed to inform the public on defence and security issues in a non-partisan way. 

While the Library may feel like Southbank’s best-kept secret, the opportunity to explore rare resources from the past is a privilege that every local should take advantage of.  

RUSIV Library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:30am to 4:30pm. 

Contact the office staff at [email protected] or ring 9282 5918 to arrange a visit. •