The National Library Of Australia

From The Film Australia Collection. Made by the Commonwealth Film Unit 1969. Built on the banks of Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra, the National Library of Australia is a graceful addition to the cultural institutions of Australia’s national capital. Designed by Walter Bunning, it is said to have been inspired by the Parthenon after his visit to Greece. This film shows the Library’s construction, from the planning stages and excavation to its official opening in August 1968 by the then Prime Minister John Gorton. Shown in detail are various aspects of the construction, including the erection of the fountains in the library forecourt and the careful assembly of the exterior marble columns. Features include the installation of Leonard French’s stained glass panels, Tom Bass’ copper lintel sculpture ‘Knowledge’, and the hanging of Mathieu Mategot’s tapestries, which were especially commissioned for the foyer.

[@eddunn1717]

I love this old film and I love this library. It is a beautiful building in a lovely setting and is a very peaceful place to spend time.

[@barbaracunningham964]

I started working there a month after the opening. It was a great place to work and had great people. I was lucky enough to know nearly all the staff as I worked in personnel. Good times!

[@stevenpam]

Great that these masterfully created films are able to be enjoyed today!

[@NFSAFilms]

Thanks Steven. We agree. Several thousand more yet to upload so please stay tuned.

[@kiwaussiegirl]

NFSA Films..Love this channel. Thank you! 👍 😊

[@NFSAFilms]

Thanks Noelene. We appreciate your feedback.

[@BoganBrett]

Fantastic channel. As a young man, seeing the world in such a different state it baffles me, yet I feel a sort of connection to it? As though it’s nostalgic. Anyway, I digress. Thanks for uploading all these amazing videos.

[@NFSAFilms]

Hi Hopper, thanks for the comments. Digressing and feeling connected to history is what we are all about here.

[@internezzo]

That was great, thanks.

[@johnpro2847]

@ 5:30 Very formal in those days ..the architect wears his suit on site.

[@RodsPinballVideos]

7:55 Thats some quality asbestos!

[@johnpro2847]

Has it been removed ?

[@jdsgotninelives]

OH & S just wasn't really a thing in those days

[@saxongreen78]

Edited by Harley H Davison... *_snicker!_*

[@gabriellegregoire8242]

Um why isn't there any mention of the European immigrants like my grandfather and great grandfather who built the National Library?

[@canusdominici]

Canberra's best building by far with its classical dimensions and choice of materials. Everything built since is just rubbish to be bulldozed into the lake.

[@mabamabam]

Nah British high commision is the best. Maybe Chinese embassy for its amazing "70's houso flats in a hat" look. Even of the monumental buildings it sits behind the High Court and the National gallery. Only thing the library has going for it is size.