Library Newsletter

Published on 05 November 2026

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An evening with Richard Glover: How to Ruin a Child
PACC | Saturday 3 April 2027, 6.30-8.00pm

Join bestselling author, journalist and raconteur Richard Glover for a fabulous evening celebrating his new book, How to Ruin a Child. During this Newcastle Writers Festival special event, Richard will take you through a century of alarming, contradictory and hilarious advice given to Australian parents, and share why the experts were so often wrong and why most of us turn out perfectly fine. Tickets $30 – on sale now!
Treasures From the Local Studies Collection
Cessnock Library | Thursday 12 November, 10.00am-12.30pm

Join us for a Devonshire morning tea and to view special items from the Local Studies collection, as chosen by the Local Studies Librarian. You will be astounded at what hidden gems are in our collection! Bookings essential.
Fairy Biscuits Workshop with The Emerald Ruby
Kurri Kurri Library | Saturday 14 November, 10.30am-12.30pm

Create your own whimsical fairy biscuits in this meditative miniature workshop with artist Jen Hankin (The Emerald Ruby). Discover the quiet joy of working small in this gentle, hands-on miniature workshop. You’ll create your own whimsical sculpture of fairy biscuits inspired by the nostalgic Australian treat, Hundreds and Thousands.
Jen is an artist who brings together embroidery, beadwork, sculpture and storytelling to create tiny, adorable landscapes.
Ages 18+ Tickets $5

This event is proudly supported by a grant from the Kurri Kurri Bowling Club as part of the Create, Relax, Connect program for Kurri Kurri Library.
Make Your Own Christmas Tassels with SuziMaggs
Cessnock Library | Monday 7 December, 2.00-4.00pm

Join local maker SuziMaggs for a fun and creative workshop and make your very own gorgeous upcycled tassels to use as gifts or decorations.
Suzi is a local and a Handmade, Remade, Unmade and Self-made Designer, Maker, Sewer, Artist and Teacher. Ages 18+ Bookings essential.
Christmas Storytimes

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with a special Storytime at your local library! Join Amy for all your favourite Christmas stories, songs, rhymes (and bubbles) with a very special guest and their chief elf flying in from the North Pole to join the fun.

Free events. Bookings essential.

Cessnock Library | Tuesday 15 December, 10.00–10.45am
Ages 3–5 years


Kurri Kurri Library | Wednesday 16 December, 10.00–10.45am
Ages 0–5 years
Summer School Holiday Fun!

Our Summer School Holiday program is here! Pick up a copy at your local library or check online to discover all the activities on offer.

Get creative making a DIY Bauble Christmas Card, design your very own postcard and stamp, experiment with fun Kitchen Science activities, learn traditional raffia weaving and create a unique bracelet, or discover the basics of coding with our fantastic Ozobots!

There’s something for everyone, with plenty of opportunities to get creative, experiment and have fun these school holidays.

Our fabulous Ozobot kits were purchased thanks to a generous grant from Cessnock Leagues. We are very grateful for their support!
First Friday Movie Club
Cessnock Library | Friday 6 November, 10.30am-12.00pm

Join us this month for Friday Movie Club and enjoy a film starring Keanu Reeves, Seth Rogen and Aziz Ansari. When a well-meaning but rather hapless angel (Reeves) swaps the lives of a struggling gig worker and a wealthy businessman, things don't quite go to plan! A fun fantasy comedy about money, happiness and what really matters in life. Free event.
Tech Savvy Seniors
Fridays at Cessnock & Kurri Kurri Libraries | 10.00am-12.00pm

Ready to get more out of your phone, tablet or computer? Join the wonderful Harry Kavadas from Seniors, Tech & Tea for our popular series of friendly, FREE workshops! Whether you’re a beginner, keen to learn something new or just need a little help with your device, these relaxed, supportive sessions are for you!

What’s on the menu?
  • Apps that make life easier
  • Apple iPhones & iPads
  • Android phones & tablets
  • Using your device for everyday tasks and entertainment
  • Introduction to cybersafety
  • Taking, saving and sharing great photos
Discovering what AI can do for you — and so much more! No question is too small, and everyone is welcome. Come along, build your confidence and discover just how much your device can do!

Check out the full Tech Savvy Seniors program here. We can't wait to see you there!
Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath
Cessnock Library | our November session is booked out.
The next session is Saturday December 12, 10.30-11.30am

Relax * Reset * Renew
Immerse yourself in the soothing vibrations of crystal singing bowls. Let the healing sounds wash over you, helping to reduce stress, calm the mind and restore balance and harmony within. Book now to secure your spot!
Speaking of Books: Alicia Thompson – The Hand
Cessnock Library | Saturday 13 March 2027, 11.00am-12.00pm

Two’s company, but three’s a killer…
Join Australian author Alicia Thompson at Cessnock Library for a fascinating author about her gripping new psychological thriller, The Hand.

About Alicia Thompson: Alicia Thompson grew up on a farm in Wollombi NSW. She has worked as an accountant, photographer, editor, adventure tour leader in the Middle East and China, business analyst and writing teacher.
Free event. Bookings essential.

‘Sensual, smartly crafted and steeped in tension.’
Michael Burge | Author of Dirt Trap

‘I was gasping one moment and cheering the next.’
Sam Elliott | Author of Haze

‘Anne Bronte meets Wake in Fright’
Matthew Spencer | Author of Broke Road

‘A mystery, a twisted dynamic, a dark outback noir. Unearthing the Templetons’ sinister secrets is to gamble with your life.’
Darcy Tindale | Author of Burning Mountain
Available for download now on all iOS and Android devices, the Cessnock City Library app allows members access to its services and resources at the touch of a button.

 

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