Speed Dating at State Library Victoria: Queer Session

Ever dreamt of a meet-cute in a library? Now that dream can come true.

This autumn, State Library Victoria is partnering with Crush Club to host one of Melbourne’s largest speed dating events in one of Melbourne's most romantic buildings.

Set underneath the iconic Dome and within The Ian Potter Queen’s Hall, singles will break out into groups and enjoy 5-minute one-on- one speed dates with potential suitors. Conversations will be aided by prompts on the tables with questions to spark connection, flirtation, laughter, and the occasional healthy debate – from whether Ross and Rachel were really on a break, to sharing a memorable (or hilariously bad) first date story.

Doors open from 6pm, where you are invited to explore the Library’s exhibition Rebel Heart: Love Letters and Other Declarations, enjoy a drink from the bar and mingle.

Feeling nervous? Consider bringing a friend along, or that single housemate, colleague, or mutual friend you don’t fancy, but who might be perfect for someone else.

Who?

Ages 20-60. Queer event (mlm & wlw)

A straight session will be happening on the 28th April, see link to tickets here.

When?

Thursday, 30th April

What to Expect:

Attendees will be grouped by age bracket: 20-30, 30-40, 40-50, and 50-60, with sessions held across two Library spaces. If you're in between age groups, pick whichever group you'd prefer to be a part of.

Lesbian/wlw Session:

• Doors open: 6:15pm

• Speed dating: From 7-8:30pm

• Location: Ian Potter Queen’s Hall

Guests are welcome to arrive earlier to explore the exhibition and enjoy drinks from the bar before the session begins.

Queer men/mlm Session:

• Arrival from: 7:30pm

• Speed dating: From 8:30-10pm.

• Location: La Trobe Reading Room

Guests can arrive from 7:30pm to enjoy the exhibition and mingle ahead of their session.

Please note: trans, nonbinary, and genderqueer people are most welcome at all of our events. Just select whichever session you'd like to be a part of based on your age + dating preferences.

Other Details:

• This event is for people aged 20 years and over.  

• Any inappropriate behaviour will not be tolerated on the night. Staff have the right to remove any attendees on the night at their own discretion.  

• Photos and videos will be taken on the night to be used on social media. 

• For information regarding State Library Victoria's venue access and inclusion, please refer to https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/visit/access-and-inclusion or contact our Access and Inclusion Librarian on 03 8664 7005 or email accessinclusion@slv.vic.gov.au.

• Tickets are non-refundable. If you can no longer attend, you can resell your ticket via Humanitix once your ticket type has sold out closer to the event date. A refund will only be issued if your ticket is successfully purchased by another guest. The replacement attendee must match the original ticket type, including age range and ticket type.