The W G Alma Conjuring Collection

Here in Melbourne we have access to one of the world’s greatest magic resources – The W G Alma Conjuring Collection at the State Library of Victoria.

The WG Alma Conjuring Collection contains around 2000 books on magic, 60 magazine titles, 1500 photographs, 300 posters, over 400 detailed research files on individual magicians, and other magic memorabilia, including small tricks and models, many of which are on display in the Changing face of Victoria exhibition.

Access to the collection is available to magicians and you can CLICK HERE to find out exactly how to browse through it from your own home.

Accessing the Collection

If you find books on the Library catalogue that are from the WG Alma Conjuring Collection, most can be ordered using your State Library Victoria card. Retrievals take about 30 minutes. (The cut-off time for same day deliveries is 5.30pm). Books will be delivered to the Heritage Collections Reading Room and can only be read in that room.

Rare books from the Alma Collection (RAREALMA prefix) need to be preordered for use. Delivery time is typically 24-48 hours after you place your order, pending approval by Arts staff. Orders placed on weekends may take longer to deliver. Phone 03 8664 7009 to request delivery. Books will be delivered to the Heritage Collections Reading Room and can only be read in that room.