Publishing Details
About This Podcast
A podcast celebrating libraries as vital “third places” inspired by the idea of “third spaces.”
Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the term “third space” to describe social environments separate from home and work — places where community, conversation, and connection happen naturally. A Third Place riffs on this idea, focusing on libraries as welcoming, vibrant environments that nurture learning, creativity, and belonging.
Created in 2019 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the University of Melbourne’s Baillieu Library, this podcast features captivating conversations with Professor Peter McPhee and distinguished University alumni—from the groundbreaking philosopher and author Peter Singer to the dynamic Australian actor Alice Garner—sharing their stories and reflections on the power of these special places.
This podcast was produced by Video and Media at the University of Melbourne.
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Recent Episodes
Peter Singer – Ideas, debates, and the Baillieu Library
World-renowned philosopher and animal rights advocate Peter Singer returns to his undergraduate days at the University of Melbourne, recalling the Baillieu Library as both a place of study and a…
Gillian Triggs – Law, justice, and the power of public spaces
In this episode of A Third Place, international human rights leader Gillian Triggs reflects on her student days at the University of Melbourne and the spaces that shaped her path from young law…
David McInnis – Shakespeare, libraries and discovery
In this episode of A Third Place, celebrated Shakespeare scholar David McInnis reflects on his student days at the University of Melbourne and the spaces that shaped his intellectual journey. From…
Lucy Thomas – Creating spaces for connection and change
In this episode of A Third Place, social change leader Lucy Thomas, co-founder and CEO of Project Rockit, shares her journey from a sibling conversation at a family wedding to building Australia’s…
Alice Garner: Libraries, safe spaces, and serendipity
In this episode of A Third Place, host Peter McPhee speaks with the multi-talented Alice Garner — actor, writer, musician, historian, and teacher — about the enduring role of libraries and other…
Frequently Asked Questions
A Third Place has published 5 episodes since November 2025, covering topics in Arts, Books.
A Third Place is currently dormant with new episodes daily. Average episode length is 16m.
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