National Library of Australia, The

1969, 20 Minutes

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.

© National Film and Sound Archive of Australia.