The PMI Victorian History Library Inc. (PMI) is celebrating an important change. After more than a century, our special law, which was one of the oldest in Victoria, has been repealed, marking a new chapter in our operations.
The PMI and the State Library of Victoria, are the only libraries in Victoria that have been governed by their own Acts of Parliament. The Prahran Mechanics’ Institute Act which has governed us since 1899, outlined the establishment of the PMI, its Committee and its rules – and could only be changed with parliamentary approval.
In 2023, we became an incorporated association – a contemporary legal structure that enables us to set our own rules about how the organisation is run. This change, along with the repeal of our 1899 legislation, enables us to serve the evolving needs of our community and members, and grow and succeed into the future.
In speaking in support of the Prahran Mechanics’ Institute Repeal Bill 2024, the member representing the Southern Metropolitan Region, John Berger told the Victorian Legislative Council: “The Prahran mechanics library board and volunteers, both present and past, have worked tirelessly to deliver to the community what is an expansive and engaging historical library, and this bill will ensure that they have the autonomy to continue this work without facing outdated bureaucratic hoops.”
As we turn 170 years old, we continue to honour our heritage by collecting, preserving and sharing the stories of Victoria, and we remain committed to providing learning opportunities for the community. We are planning an exciting program of events for 2025 and look forward to seeing you when you visit.
If you want to know more about our history or this recent change, please email us at library@pmi.net.au.