The library holds over 1.5 million books and 16,000 serials . Special books in the library include the diaries of the city 's founders , John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner , and Captain James Cook . The library holds over 1.5 million books and 16,000 serials , including the diaries of the city 's founders , John Batman and John Pascoe Fawkner , and the folios of Captain James Cook .