Dr Srilal Fernando, whose essay dated 2o26 is entitled “Victor Melder turns 90: Railwayman and bibliophile extraordinary”
Victor Melder is a household name in Melbourne. He is one of the best known Srilankans living in Australia. This came about because of the unique library that he has accumulated over many years with a combination of perseverance, determination and self-sacrifice. The Victor Melder Srilankan Library, (VMSL) is unique and has been of great service to Australians, SriLankans and many in different parts of the world. It is used by researchers pursuing a master’s degree or a doctorate, by other writers to various magazines, newspapers and websites, judging by the various accolades that the library has received over the years.
Another area it has been used is in genealogy. It has been a boon for those looking up their family tree. The eminent genealogist, Kyle Joustra acknowledges the data he has gathered from the VMSL. International writers on such topics as Cricket, Tea, Coffee, Plantations in general have drawn from this fount of knowledge. It has a full set of the journals of the Dutch Burger Union among the various rare publications.
