Some words about the Carmelite Library

 The Carmelite Library is an oasis for many in Melbourne and beyond, a go-to place for books, reading, study, spiritual refreshment, conversation groups  and other services and events.

The Carmelites offer to Melbourne and to Australia a special library in spirituality that meets the reading needs of a broad section of the community for whom this material would not otherwise be available. Neither the public library system nor the theological libraries offer this breadth and depth of literature; it fills the gap. As a circulation library available to the general public, it serves a broad readership in spirituality drawing from all ages and all of the major religious traditions. It meets the Province’s objectives of making the collection available now to everyone, and to posterity.

The Carmelite Library is unique in Australia. Its specialisations (spirituality and mysticism, Carmelite tradition, and Mariology) set it apart as a research library of first choice. The core collection is unique both within the University of Divinity network, of which it is a member, and the tertiary education sector generally.

It is one of the half dozen largest Carmelite collections in the world, the largest outside Europe and the United States. The Library meets the core Carmelite charisms of prayer, community, and service. It meets the Carmelite objective of making God better known and loved.

The Library serves a vital role in community wellness and mental health, now more than ever. It actively supports the work of the Carmelite Centre. It is home to the hermits’ network, the icon group, and other initiatives. It holds a rare book collection of national significance. The Library is popular as a local hub in Middle Park, but this extends to anyone wishing to use the Library. It has been life-changing for many users, able to reach out to others, many of whom would not otherwise be coming into regular contact with the services its offers.

The peaceful and friendly atmosphere of the Carmelite Hall is a by-word for those using the Library, always a special place to come and spend some time.

The Carmelite Library, of necessity, is professionally managed. Philip Harvey and his trained staff provide welcome, are at all times available to assist with reference and other enquiries, and work systematically to meet the objectives of the Library. Their knowledge of the collection and their work is of irreplaceable benefit to all.