When executed well, a conference can become the social highlight of the professional calendar – blending learning, networking and socialising into a truly unforgettable experience. A critical cornerstone of industry development, they offer unparalleled networking opportunities, foster an atmosphere of professional growth and allow attendees to develop their skills.
Venue is everything when planning a conference. Factors like accessibility, capacity, AV setup and aesthetic are all important factors when determining the scope and feel of the event.
Nestled in the heart of the CBD, the State Library of Victoria has a space to suit every need. The dedicated event rooms offer a captivating atmosphere, integrated AV equipment and onsite catering to make planning as stress-free as possible.
Among the Library’s many areas, several are custom-built for conferences. Read on to see which space best suits you!
1. The Conversation Quarter
The Conversation Quarter boasts a unique blend of heritage architecture and cutting-edge technology. Ideal for lectures, panels and seminars, it features the Library’s distinctive bluestone wall as a charming focal point. The space comes equipped with the latest live-stream technology and can be connected in real-time to international speakers across the globe.
With a flexible floor plan and seating options, the Conversation Quarter provides the warmth to host small seminars or the largest of luncheons. If you’re organising a major conference, the Conversation Quarter can also be hired as a complementary venue for events held in the Village Roadshow Theatrette or Conference Centre.
2. Isabella Fraser Room
Named after the Library’s first listed female staff member, this versatile heritage gallery can be transformed into a sophisticated dining room, exhibition space or theatrette. The glorious high ceilings, abundance of natural light and beautiful hardwood floors make it perfect for business breakfasts and lunches in addition to conferencing.
This special event space is directly accessible through a dedicated entrance on La Trobe Street, and is located next a world-class exhibition space. The Victoria Gallery currently plays host to Melbourne Out Loud: Life through the lens of Rennie Ellis with the opportunity to extend private access and curator talks prior to the start of your event.
3. Conference Centre
With dedicated access from La Trobe Street, the centrally located Conference Centre caters to all your professional and corporate event needs. Comprising of the 200-seat State Library Theatrette and a suite of five adjoining seminar rooms, the Conference Centre is flexible and configurable, ideal for concurrent workshops and breakout groups. Equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment, the Conference Centre is available for full or half-day conferences, seven days a week.
4. State Library Theatrette
Whether you want to present a lecture, chair a meeting or screen a film, the State Library Theatrette has the equipment and versatility you need. The space has a seating capacity of up to 200 guests and fully integrated multimedia equipment, all with remote controls. With brand-new upgrades, including five high-definition projectors, this room has the capacity to facilitate a wide range of conference and presentation formats.
Two seating rows are also fitted with power outlets to enable easy use of personal technology, meaning guests can take notes on their laptops or record on their phones without draining batteries.
In addition to these dedicated conference rooms, the State Library also offers the Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, La Trobe Reading Room, and Cowen Gallery as event spaces.
No matter the size, theme or budget of your dream conference, SEG is determined to make it a reality. Chat with us today about how you can make the State Library of Victoria the home for your next event.
