The Reading Room

The Reading Room is a member run book reading and discussion group that meets monthly,  all are welcome to join but you must be or become a member. The sessions are free and when possible will be held in our Heritage Reading Room. The titles discussed will be published in our monthly newsletter and social media and Latest Library News on this website. 
If you wish to participate please register your interest via the link below.

A Note from Greta | Turning pages,  Jane Sullivan, The age

Below is a note from Greta after the October Reading and Discussion Let me sing you gentle Songs | Linda Olsson. She has also found a wonderful article by Jane Sullivan on the benefits and successes of book clubs.

reading – oCT 21
Let me sing you gentle songs | Linda Olsson
reading nOV 21
book cover
Past the Shallows | Favel Parrett
Reading – jAN 22 
reading fEB 22 
The Dictionary of Lost Words | Pip Williams

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Suggestions

Would you like to suggest book titles, authors or categories that you would like to borrow from us?

Tours

The BMI can provide public tours of the building. Get in touch with us to book in a tour for your group.

with Nicole Alexander

28 May at 6pm

Ballarat Heritage Festival BMI Day Tours

Two tours  on 20 &  21 May 

 

portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

guides dressed in period costum

Australian Heritage Festival

Minerva's Secrets

25 April – Tour 1 at 7.30pm – fully booked
Tour 2 at 9.30pm – still tickets. 

portrait of author with book cover

Australian Heritage Festival

Natasha Lester in conversation

1 May at 6pm

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

Fundraising Dinner
17 May. 

  Performance – 18 May.

Ballarat Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

16 to 25 May 

Connections to War from a Ballarat Perspective

Wed 2-30 April, 5.30pm

Australian Heritage Festival Events at the BMI

18 April to 18 May

Dame Nellie Melba Birthday Celebration

Fundraising Dinner
17 May. 

  Performance – 18 May.

Christmas Holiday Closures | Library

Monday 23 December – Sunday 5 January

Devonshire Tea & Fashion Parade

Bubbly on arrival & Featuring quality items from our Vintage Shop | $60

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute 2025 Calendar

Featuring the BMI Image Collection | Now $20

Tax Deductible 

Your gift will be tax-deductible this financial year if you make it before June 30.

We need
your help.

2024 End of Financial Year Appeal 

Or alternatively go to our Donations web page.

Our Challenge

Like many organisations the BMI faces significant funding challenges. 

We thank you for your support.

BMI Fundraiser

Featuring:
The Hideaways,
The Harmonies &
Surf Shadows. 

2 course dinner & lots
of dancing