Library Newsletter

Published on 19 November 2024

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As the year begins to come to a close, there are still plenty of fantastic talks and workshops to mark on your calendar. We look forward to seeing you at the library soon!
Speaking of Books: Todd Alexander – The Worst House on the Worst Street
Cessnock Library | Sat 23 November, 10.30am-12.00pm
Don't let this fabulous farewell to the year slip through your fingers! Join us for a hilarious talk with the sensational bestselling author and local, Todd Alexander, at Cessnock Library on Saturday, 23 November from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Todd will regale us with tales from his memoir, The Worst House on the Worst Street, sharing the laugh-out-loud ups and downs of his and partner Jeff's renovation escapades. With nearly two decades of renovation chaos under their belts, get ready for stories filled with wild properties, unexpected injuries, floods, and those delightfully quirky neighbours!

Don't miss the chance to purchase a signed copy of Todd's book and meet the author himself. Come for the laughs, stay for the wisdom, and leave with a smile!
Your Time Starts Now: An Evening with Julie Goodwin
PACC Cessnock | Sat 5 April 2025, 6:30-7:30pm
We initially fell in love with Julie Goodwin 15 years ago during the first season of MasterChef. Her simple, honest food resonated with so many of us. Since then she's forged a media career that encompasses almost every facet of the entertainment world - from breakfast radio and TV to reality TV star on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! to columnist for Australian Women’s Weekly and book author. In this very special Newcastle Writers Festival event on SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2025, Julie speaks about her extraordinary experiences - the highs and the lows - and how they have shaped who she is today.
Searching for the perfect Christmas gift? Why not pick up some tickets!
From Shame to Strength: A Community Conversation to Empower
How to detect the red flags of Coercive Control, assert your boundaries, and reclaim your story.
PACC Cessnock | Wed 27 November, 10.30am-12pm
Join us for an impactful morning as we mark the International "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence" with a FREE keynote address by Jas Rawlinson.

Don’t miss this opportunity to unite as a community against violence and make your voice heard.
This event aims to educate and inspire community members to recognise the red flags of coercive control, assert their boundaries, and reclaim their stories. Jas Rawlinson, a best-selling author, advocacy coach, and survivor of domestic and sexual violence, will share her powerful insights and personal experiences. Through her storytelling, she encourages individuals to transform shame into resilience.

Jas’s acclaimed works, including "The Stories We Carry" and "Reasons to Live," have earned endorsements from recognized organizations like Lifeline and ABC.
�� Transform Your Journey: Your Story Is Your Superpower! ��
Are you ready to turn your experiences of shame and adversity into a powerful narrative of strength and healing? Join us for a FREE workshop with the incredible Jas Rawlinson! Only a couple of spaces left.
�� Date: Thursday, 28 November
�� Time: 10am - 2pm
�� Location: Cessnock Library
In this enriching half-day session, Jas—best-selling author, award-winning speaker, and domestic violence survivor—will guide you through the process of embracing your personal story. You'll learn how to rewrite trauma into triumph and foster connections with fellow survivors in a supportive environment. Plus, lunch is on us! ��
This workshop is ideal for those who have navigated prior programs with domestic violence or homelessness services and are ready to take the next steps in their healing journey.
Spaces are limited and bookings are essential, so don't miss out! Click the link below to book your spot today and embrace the superpower of your story! ��
Our tech Savvy Seniors workshops with Harry from Seniors, Tech & Tea are held at both Kurri Kurri Library & Cessnock City Library.
�� ��‍�� All your favourite topics are included: smartphones, laptops, video calls, seniors' cards, transport apps, online safety, tablets, iPads, smart assistants, and more!
��There is also general Q&A time at each session to ask Harry anything about tech.
Visit Cessnock or Kurri Kurri Library to grab a program or click the image to see the full program.
�� Alternatively, call us (4993 4399 for Cessnock & 4937 1638 for Kurri Kurri) and the team at the front desk can also help you with booking.
Speaking of Books: Penelope Janu – The Summerfield Saddler
Cessnock Library | Mon 17 February, 4.00-5.00pm
We’re thrilled to host award-winning Australian author Penelope Janu as she presents her latest novel, The Summerfield Saddler.

Dive into the charming world of Summerfield, where Mackenzie Henry leads a peaceful life as a saddler. But when her grandfather tasks her with restoring land damaged by mining, she finds herself entangled in a documentary that uncovers buried secrets and ignites unexpected romance. Will the enigmatic Kit Thorsen be a companion or a complication for Mackenzie?

It's a heartwarming story that explores love, resilience, and the beauty of community. Books will be available for sale and signing, so don’t miss this chance to meet Penelope and get your copy!

Join us for an engaging discussion and a glimpse into the life of a talented author. We look forward to seeing you there!
Speaking of Books: Rodd Henderson – Stop Screaming I’m Scared Too
Kurri Kurri Library | Tue 25 February, 5.30-6.30pm
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening with Rod Henderson at Kurri Kurri Library!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable event featuring Rod Henderson. Rod will share his compelling journey through 22 years of service in the Australian Army, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a soldier from the perspective of someone who has witnessed both the challenges and triumphs of military life.

Having served during one of the most demanding periods in Australian military history, Rod’s experiences range from deployments in East Timor and Afghanistan to counter-terrorism operations back home. His story is not of a general or a special forces hero, but rather of a dedicated regular soldier whose trials and tribulations resonate with authenticity and courage.

Through heartfelt anecdotes infused with humour and honesty, Rod will discuss the physical and mental health challenges he faced and the healing he found within the storied walls of the Australian War Memorial. His memoir highlights the importance of sharing the little-known stories of ordinary soldiers and underscores the therapeutic power of storytelling.

Don't miss this chance to hear from a true soldier in stories that deserve to be told. Whether you're a veteran, a supporter of ourarmed forces, or simply curious about military life, this event promises to be eye-opening and inspiring.
As the new year approaches, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Kristy is back with an exciting line up of Awaken to Wellness sessions at both the Cessnock and Kurri Kurri libraries. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic healing, featuring all of your favourites! Kick off your year with favourites like sound healing, aromatherapy, crystals, gua sha + face yoga, and chakras, plus a special Chinese New Year workshop!
Power Up: The Ultimate Guide to Solar Energy and Battery Storage
Cessnock Library | Saturday 22 February, 10.30am-12.00pm

Join us for an enlightening workshop presented by energy consultant Julien Freed at Cessnock Library. As a recognized expert in solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicles, Julien will provide valuable insights for homeowners, businesses, and anyone interested in sustainable energy.

Attendees will learn about new solar incentives in NSW, including the upcoming Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) starting November 2024, which offers benefits for residential battery storage and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how to harness solar energy for a sustainable future. Reserve your spot today!
Use the Library's free learn to code resource, Fiero Code, to build your own apps, websites and games. Log in with your library card.