Library Newsletter

Published on 28 September 2026

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SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN IS COMING YOUR WAY!

We’ve got some fabulous activities lined up for the school holidays, and you won’t want to miss out!
Silent Disco at Branxton Community Hall, featuring a professional kids’ entertainer!
Big Bang Science Workshops at Kurri Kurri Library — made possible thanks to a grant from Cessnock Leagues. Get ready for some hands-on scientific fun!
Leaf Imprinting with Clay — get creative and make something special.
Music Bingo — bring your best musical knowledge and join the fun!
Film, Craft & Snacks at Branxton Community Hall! When the toys are center alone, the real adventure begins! One cowboy, one space ranger and a whole lot of friendship…
Settle in with a family favourite movie, enjoy some tasty treats and get a great craft activity to take home. There are beanbags for the kids and chairs for all the mums and dads, too!
Book your spots now and make these school holidays ones to remember!
Speaking of Books: Sarah Barrie – Dark Sanctuary
In conversation with Tea Cooper
Cessnock Library | Saturday, 3 October 2026, 10:30 am – 11:30 am

Join us for an exclusive author talk with bestselling crime writer Sarah Barrie, as she discusses her latest gripping thriller, Dark Sanctuary with Tea Cooper.
Detective Sergeant “Hex” Rexford—famed for capturing Dr Witcherton—faces his toughest case yet: a series of murders at Coast Sanctuary, a hospital for the criminally insane. When Witcherton claims to know the killer and Hex’s health begins to deteriorate, a desperate race against time begins.
Meanwhile, Beth Thompson is dealing with a stalking ex-partner and unsettling changes in her son’s behaviour. His beloved teddy, Theo, may be more than just a toy. When an elderly woman offers Beth a cottage that proves to be more illusion than sanctuary, things take an even darker turn.
Podcasters Eve and Zane are determined to uncover the truth, but as Eve gets closer to the killer, the danger escalates, bodies pile up, and something unseen lurks in the shadows…
Sarah Barrie is a bestselling crime writer with degrees in arts, science and education. Her varied career has included teaching, veterinary nursing, horse training and magazine editing. She now writes from her family property in the bush, surrounded by loved ones and plenty of books.
Bookings are essential.
Author Talk: Fiona McArthur – The Featherwood Beekeeper
Cessnock Library | Thursday 22 October 2026, 6.00-7.00pm

Join us at Cessnock Library for a special evening with bestselling Australian author Fiona McArthur as she discusses her captivating new novel, The Featherwood Beekeeper.
Set in rural NSW, this heartwarming story weaves together mystery, family, love and second chances, with a cast of unforgettable characters and a beautiful Australian backdrop.
Bookings essential
Save the date!
PACC | Saturday April 3, 2027, 6.30-8.00pm

BIG NEWS, CESSNOCK! You won’t believe who’s coming to town!
We’re keeping a little secret for now, but we can reveal that an exciting Australian author will be joining us for a very special author talk as part of the Newcastle Writers Festival 2027.
Save the date: Saturday 3 April 2027
 Time: 6.30–8.00pm
Trust us, you won’t want to miss this one!
We’ll let you know as soon as tickets go on sale. Stay tuned…
Oh My Folklore!
Kurri Kurri Library | Thursday October 29, 6.00-7.00pm

Myths, legends and unexplained tales of the Hunter Region.
Get ready for Halloween with a chillingly good chat!
Join Emily and Tom, creators of Instagram’s hit digital series Oh My Folklore, for a night of local storytelling. Uncover local ghosts, mysterious artefacts, and secret folklore. Explore the Hunter’s most intriguing legends from Wollombi to Weston and beyond.
Book now to secure your spot! - Only a few spaces remaining!
Tech Savvy Seniors
Fridays at Cessnock & Kurri Kurri Libraries | 10.00am-12.00pm

TECH SAVVY SENIORS IS BACK FOR A BRAND-NEW SEASON!
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!
Book your spot today!
Cessnock Library: 4993 4399 | Kurri Kurri Library: 4937 1638
Check out the full Tech Savvy Seniors program. We can't wait to see you there!
This Get Online Week, get ready to make the most of your computer!

Join digital trainer Harry Kavadas from Seniors Tech & Tea for a fun, friendly and practical workshop designed to help you get more from your computer—whether you use Windows or Mac.
Every year, Get Online Week helps people build their digital skills, feel safer and more confident online, and make sure no one is center behind.
This is one of our most requested topics, so don’t miss out! Come along, ask questions, pick up some handy tips and discover new ways to get the most from your computer—all in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
And there’s more… enjoy a delicious catered morning tea while you learn!
Come along, get confident and get more from your computer!
Mac Mastery
Cessnock Library | Monday 19 October, 10.00am-12.00pm

Windows Made Easy
Kurri Kurri Library | Thursday 22 October, 10.00am-12.00pm
Cessnock Library Film Club – First Friday (2 October) at 10:30am

Think you’ve got what it takes to be the best? Fame, fortune and a little bit of madness… all for the love of the game!
We’re bringing a little big-screen excitement your way, but we’re keeping the details under wraps for now. Let’s just say… this one’s got a whole lot of spin!
A little clue: This film received 9 nominations at the 98th Academy Awards and 11 nominations at the 79th British Academy Film Awards, with major wins for its lead actor at the Golden Globes and Critics’ Choice Awards!
Join us for this film screening at the library. Tea, coffee and bickies provided.
Crystal Singing Bowl Sound Bath
Cessnock Library | monthly - next session Saturday October 10, 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!
In the Loop has begun at Kurri Kurri Library
Tuesdays from 10.00am
Get your needles and hooks ready! The "In the Loop" group has returned to Kurri Kurri Library!
Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, come along on Tuesdays at 10am for some crafting, a free cuppa, and a friendly chat. It’s the perfect way to spend a morning and make new friends.
Ready to join us? Just come along.
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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