Ballarat Libraries - What's On SUMMER 2025/26

What’s on at the Libraries SUMMER 2025/26

Acknowledgement of Country The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land we live, work, learn and play on. Within our Council boundaries, the Wadawurrung People are the Traditional Owners south of the Great Dividing Range and to the north the Dja Dja Wurrung People are the Traditional Owners. We recognise their continuing connection to the land and waterways.

We pay our respects to their respective Elders past, present and emerging and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People.

The City of Ballarat Libraries also acknowledges and respects the rich history of tens of thousands of years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and storytelling.

We are committed to providing culturally safe public spaces and services in the City of Ballarat Libraries for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People and we recognise and understand our responsibility in relation to the sensitivity and significance of some of our collection materials.

Contents Announcements

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Special Events

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Adult Programs

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Movies

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Young People

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Teens

18

Kids and Families

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Tech Hub

22

Maker Space

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Digital Library

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Ballarat Library Memberships

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KEY Target Audience

Sign up online libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/whats-on/ email-newsletters

Time and Date Location

Email Newsletters Keep up-to-date with events, programs and service announcements with our email newsletters.

Coming Up For what’s on at Ballarat Libraries, including programs and events for all ages.

Bookings Bookings are essential wherever you see this symbol To book, scan QR code below, visit libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/all-events or call 5338 6800.

Off the Shelf For books, reading recommendations, programs and events for adult readers.

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Announcements Public Holiday Closures Festive Season Opening Hours All City of Ballarat Libraries and Community Hubs will close at 3pm on Wednesday 24 December.

Sebastopol Library will reopen at 9.30am on Saturday 27 December.

Sebastopol Library will be closed on Thursday 1 January 2026.

All other library branches and Community Hubs will resume regular opening hours at 9.30am on Friday 2 January.

There will be no library Outreach service in January.

January 26 Public Holiday All City of Ballarat Libraries will be closed on Monday 26 January for the public holiday.

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After-hours chutes are available at Ballarat Library, Sebastopol Library and Wendouree Library.

Our Digital Library is always available: libraries.ballarat.vic.gov. au/borrow/digital-library

Latest News Keep an eye on the Ballarat Libraries website for up-to-date news and service announcements.

Our Latest News blog is regularly updated with special programs, new exhibitions, dates of significance and more.

Make sure to bookmark it: libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/latest-news

Not sure what to read over the summer?

Fancy a surprise? Expand your reading horizons with the Book Tailor.

Start planning your weekend getaway while we curate your summer reads for you.

Complete the online form to receive personalised reading recommendations from Ballarat Libraries staff.

We’ll let you know when your books are ready to pick up from the branch of your choice.

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READY, SET, READ! What’s better than a summer spent reading?

Joining the BIG Summer Read!

If you are aged 0-18, join the BIG Summer Read for your chance to WIN! Read and log at least 5 books or 5 days of reading and be in the draw to win some fantastic prizes!

Register online or collect a paper reading log at your closest library. Select Central Highlands Libraries as your local library.

Register now readbooks.com.au/bsr

The competition starts on 1 December 2025 and closes on 31 January 2026. Join us for the Wrap Up Party on Tuesday 20 January from 2-3.30pm at Ballarat Library.

Psst… All reading counts! Books, audiobooks, eBooks, or reading with an adult. Need some recommendations?

Request a curated reading list from The Book Tailor.

Winners and their nominated Library Service will be notified via email.

Terms and Conditions can be found at readbooks.com.au/bsr

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Special Events Sheriff’s Aboriginal Liaison Officer Fines Assistance

Ageing Well Christmas Celebration

Your friendly Sheriff’s Aboriginal Liaison Officer (SALO) from the Victorian Department of Justice and Community Safety, Jessica Toy will be dropping in to Ballarat Libraries and Community Hubs.

Come and have a chat!

Come and join the Ageing Well Services team in Burrumbeet as we share festive games, activities, entertainment and refreshments to celebrate the end of a great year.

Your SALO can help with: •

Finding outstanding fines

•

Support for fines that have gone to court

•

Discussing options to pay off fines

Wednesday 10 December 11am-1pm Ballarat Library Drop-in. No bookings required.

Thursday 11 December 11am-1pm Sebastopol Library Drop-in. No bookings required.

Thursday 18 December 1-3pm Lucas Community Hub Drop-in. No bookings required.

Monday 15 December 11am-2pm Burrumbeet Soldiers Memorial Hall 46 Burrumbeet Road, Burrumbeet Bookings optional.

Call the Ageing Well team on (03) 5320 5500 or scan the QR code.

Chinese Calligraphy Workshop Celebrate our culturally diverse community and learn about Chinese culture, zodiac signs and the art of Chinese calligraphy.

Create and take home your own written examples of the Chinese characters 福 (fú) meaning “blessing” or “good fortune” and 马 (mǎ) meaning “horse,” the Chinese zodiac animal for 2026.

Adults Saturday 7 February 1.30-3pm Ballarat Library Bookings required.

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Special Events

Weaving with Donna Blackall

An Evening with William McInnes

Join Taungurung/Yorta Yorta artist Donna Blackall for a hands-on weaving workshop using traditional coil basket techniques. Learn the fundamentals of weaving using local natural fibres while gaining an understanding of the cultural significance of the practice, its strong symbolism and storytelling abilities.

Join actor and bestselling author William McInnes in conversation to talk all about his new book It’s a Scorcher: Tales of the Australian Summer – a collection of hilarious and heartwarming stories about those magical, roastingly hot summer months.

Adults Sunday 8 February 1.30-3pm Ballarat Library Bookings required.

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William McInnes is one of Australia’s most popular writers and actors.

His books include the bestselling memoirs A Man’s Got to Have a Hobby and That’d Be Right.

Tuesday 2 December 6-7.30pm Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI) Bookings required.

This is a BMI event and ticket prices apply. Call (03) 5331 3042 or scan the QR code.

Adult Programs

Wellbeing Matters Ballarat Libraries is proud to present Wellbeing Matters, a series of monthly sessions focusing on general wellbeing.

Be inspired to lead a happier and healthier life.

Gratitude Letters This uplifting letter writing workshop with Vanessa Bowen from Fairy Wren Counselling will explore the importance of gratitude in our everyday lives.

Take time to reflect on the year that’s been and express gratitude to the people who made a difference.

Drumming Together Discover the power of rhythm in this African drumming workshop with Mishael Gyabeng, a master drummer from Ghana. We’ll explore simple rhythms, beats and percussion techniques that encourage relaxation, focus and connection.

Tuesday 3 February 10am-12pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required

Tuesday 2 December 10am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required

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Adult Programs

Ageing with Pride Social Group Join Ageing Well Services as we celebrate our older LGBTI+ community and allies. This group is a welcoming space to make friends and celebrate all things ageing with pride.

Adults 55+ Friday 5 December 10am-12pm Ballarat Library, Co-Lab No bookings required.

Call Ageing Well team on (03) 5320 5500 or email ageingwell@ballarat.vic.gov.au for more information.

Family History Drop-In Whether you are just starting your family history research or have hit a wall on your journey, the Ballarat and District Genealogical Society can support your research and help analyse genealogical DNA results at these drop-in sessions.

Friday 5 December Friday 6 February 2-4pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Thursday 26 February 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

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First Friday Book Chat Share your latest reads, get recommendations, and explore the library collection with fellow book lovers. Book Chats are a fun, casual way to meet other readers and discover your next favourite read.

Book Chat: Reading for the Love of It

Friday 5 December Friday 6 February 2-3pm Sebastopol Library

Join us for a relaxed and friendly book chat.

Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Whether you’re devouring novels, dipping into memoirs or rediscovering old favourites, this is a space to celebrate the joy that books bring. No assigned reading—just good conversation and great recommendations.

Eco-Reads: Summer Book Chat

Each month will focus on a broad theme, however there is no requirement to read to the theme.

December: Read outside your genre January: Summer reads February: Books about books Wednesday 3 December Wednesday 28 January Wednesday 25 February 6-6.45pm Ballarat Library Library Lounge Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Join us to discuss your favourite environmentally themed literature in a relaxed and informal chat. Whether you’re a seasoned eco-warrior or just curious about green topics, there’s something for everyone.

Throughout summer, we will explore new themes, sparking engaging discussions about our environment and the books we love.

December: First Nations Landcare February: Rewilding Thursday 11 December 6-7pm Thursday 5 February 5.30-6.30pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

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Adult Programs

Mystery Readers’ Book Chat Join us for a lively discussion dedicated to mystery novels.

Whether you’re a seasoned mystery reader or just discovering the genre, come share your thoughts, discover new reads and connect with fellow mystery enthusiasts.

Each month features a new theme.

December: Book to screen January: Scandi noir February: Historical mysteries Friday 19 December Friday 16 January Friday 20 February 2-3pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

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Summer Reading Party Join us for an outdoor Summer Reading Party at Sebastopol Library!

Connect with other readers, share book recommendations, or read quietly in the company of others. Bring along your current read or choose a book from our collection.

Thursday 26 February 5.30-7pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required

Be Creative

Analogue Hour

Be Creative with other crafters.

Bring along something you’re working on and meet new people at this casual catch up.

Disconnect from the digital world at Analogue Hour. Leave your phone in your bag and have a play with drawing, colouring in or collage.

Thursday 11 December Thursday 12 February 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Chatty Café

Art materials supplied.

Wednesday 21 January Wednesday 18 February 6-7pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Come along to Sebastopol Library and make new friends over a cuppa. Chatty Café brings the community together for friendly conversation and social connection.

Thursday 18 December Thursday 19 February 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

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Adult Programs

Date with a Hobby: Miniature Figurine Painting

Album Club

Are you looking for a new fixation or just something to do with your time? Come along to a Date with a Hobby and learn the basics of painting a small fantasy miniature.

Are you open to discovering new music and artists? Do you like meeting new people? Each month we get together to discuss our chosen album of the month and talk about what else we have been listening to.

All materials provided.

Saturday 7 February 10-11.30am Wendouree Library Bookings required

Do you love music?

Wednesday 10 December Wednesday 7 January Wednesday 4 February 6-7pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

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Movies Screenings in the Atrium Screenings in the Atrium showcases a diverse range of free movies and documentaries – from timeless classics and family fun to thought provoking documentaries.

Enjoy great stories on the big screen and connect with fellow movie lovers.

Movie screening titles may be subject to change.

Summer Series

Thursday Movie Screenings

All ages welcome.

Check film rating.

Join us for free movie screenings, featuring classic cinema, indie films and documentaries. Stay afterwards for a cuppa and chat with other movie buffs.

Sunday 7 December Sunday 14 December Sunday 18 January Sunday 1 February 1.30pm

Thursday 4 December Thursday 5 February 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required

Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required Closed captions available

The Giants (NR) The Giants explores the intertwined fates of trees and humans in a poetic portrait of environmentalist Bob Brown and the Forest.

Sunday 22 February 1.30pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required Closed captions available

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Young People Beyond the Book Love reading and discussing books? Each month, we explore a new book and dive deep into its themes and characters. Share your thoughts and insights with other book lovers.

Ages 10-14 Friday 5 December 4-4.45pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required

Learn and Play Together Enjoy exploring and discovering together. All sessions for children under 12 are designed to be co-learning activities where parents and carers participate as core support for their child.

Adult supervision is essential.

LEGO® Club Show off your imaginative building skills with a series of themed challenges using LEGO® blocks.

Ages 8+ Wednesday 3 December Wednesday 4 February 4-4.45pm Wendouree Library Bookings required

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Flight Club Explore the wonder of flight in this 4-week program. Learn to make air powered rockets, roto-copters and more.

Ages 8-12 Wednesday 4 February Wednesday 11 February Wednesday 18 February Wednesday 25 February 4-5pm Ballarat Library Bookings required

Code Club Learn to create games, animations and applications at Code Club.

Develop valuable digital skills as well as logic, creativity, collaboration and communication.

Ages 8-12 Friday 6 February February 13 February February 20 February Friday 27 February 4-5pm

Junior Taskmaster: The Series Are you ready to take on the Taskmaster? Race to complete our brain busting problems and become the Junior Taskmaster Champion!

Ages 8-14 Wednesday 11 February Wednesday 18 February Wednesday 25 February 3.45-4.45pm

Ballarat Library

Wendouree Library

Bookings required

Bookings required.

Participants need to book for all sessions.

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Young People | Teens

Session 1 Virtual Reality and 3D Game Design Session 2 Computer Aided 3D Architecture and the Arckit Building System Session 3 Make Digital Systems Work to Solve Problems & Review Industry 5.0 Careers

Dungeons and Dragons Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, our D&D sessions offer a space to explore new worlds, battle fierce monsters and forge friendships.

Join a campaign or learn to be a Dungeon Master and run your own game.

Ages 12-18

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Ages 12-18 Scan the QR code for library locations and dates

thebrainary.com/ stem-maker-project-2025

Fortnightly during school terms Tuesday 3 February Tuesday 17 February 4-5.30pm Ballarat Library, Co-Lab Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

YArtistry

A Pressing Engagement

Let your creativity flow in our monthly Young Adult art sessions.

Paint, draw, make and create in a variety of mediums including digital and multimedia.

Utilising Ballarat Community Health’s Hot off the Press Cookbook, this program is designed to aid teens and young adults in learning how to prepare simple, affordable and nutritious meals with minimum fuss.

Ages 12-18 Tuesday 10 February 4-5.30pm Ballarat Library, Co-Lab Bookings optional.

Register to receive a reminder.

Ages 12-18 Tuesday 24 February 4-5.30pm Ballarat Library, Co-Lab Bookings required

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STORYTIMES! Join us for Storytime sessions at Ballarat Libraries branches and Outreach locations.

Visit our website for the summer schedule. libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/kids-families/storytimes

All sessions run during school terms only, unless stated otherwise.

Baby Bounce A gentle session of song, music, rhyme and storytelling for babies.

Babies

Wriggle and Rhyme A fun-filled session of stories, songs, rhythm and movement.

Toddlers

Family Storytime Discover the world of books while connecting with other families.

All ages

Baby Bounce Where will we travel to this week? Learn about a different country and culture each session.

All ages

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Kids and Families Parent Place Enjoy free activities in a safe and inclusive play space.

Find out about services and support for families with young children, including kindergarten registration, playgroups and more.

A Parent Place Facilitator will be available during the session.

Contact Parent Place staff via Facebook Messenger or phone 5320 5165 All sessions run during school terms. facebook.com ParentPlaceBallarat Every Monday 9.30am-2.30pm Sebastopol Library Until end of Term 4 Vickers St Community Hub From beginning of Term 1 Every Friday 9.30am-2.30pm Djila-tjarriu Community Hub Every Monday-Friday 9.30am-2.30pm 39 Sturt Street, Ballarat

Special Storytimes Little Languages - International Day of People with Disability Little Languages is celebrating International Day of People with Disability. Join us for a Storytime highlighting The World We Can Build by Eliza Hull and Sally Rippin and illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett.

Sensory activities will be provided

by The Well who specialise in children’s creativity and wellness.

All ages Friday 5 December 10.30-11.30am Djila-tjarriu Community Hub

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Tech Hub

Tech Q&A Increase your digital skills and knowledge. Book in for a one-on-one 30-minute session to learn about using your smartphone, tablet, laptop or the internet.

Please bring relevant passwords, passcodes and email addresses if you have them.

Please note; we are unable to help with financial, legal, public housing, citizenship or immigration forms.

Every Monday and Tuesday 9.30am | 10am | 10.30am Every Thursday and Friday 3pm | 3.30pm Last session for 2025: Tuesday 16 December First session for 2026: Thursday 8 January Ballarat Library Bookings required Every Monday 9.30am | 10am | 10.30am Last session for 2025: Monday 15 December First session for 2026: Monday 12 January Wendouree Library Bookings required

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Every Wednesday 10am | 10.30am | 11am 1pm | 1.30pm | 2pm Last session for 2025: Wednesday 17 December First session for 2026: Wednesday 28 January Sebastopol Library Bookings required

Digital Forms and Services Assistance Navigating online services can be challenging, but our one-onone sessions are here to help!

These sessions are designed to build your confidence and independence in completing online forms.

Please bring relevant passwords, passcodes and email addresses if you have them.

Please note; we are unable to help with financial, legal, public housing, citizenship or immigration forms.

Wednesdays 3 December | 10 December 17 December | 21 January 28 January | 4 February 11 February | 18 February 25 February 11.30am - 12.15pm Ballarat Library Bookings required

Tech Café

Get Techy, Get Ready: Be Emergency Smart with Your Devices!

Discover how to boost your emergency preparedness with technology. Stay informed, report hazards, and take control in a crisis — all from your phone or tablet.

Tuesday 2 December 1.30-2.30pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required Thursday 4 December 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required Monday 8 December 10am-11am Lucas Community Hub Bookings required

Tech Café offers a range of technology-related and digital learning presentations, hosted

by Ballarat Libraries Tech Hub and a range of community partners. Participants are invited to share their own technology experiences, learning and questions in an informal social atmosphere.

Connecting to Others Prepare for the holiday season with this refresher course on connecting with long distance loved ones.

Thursday 11 December 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required My Digital Library A fun session to explore Ballarat Libraries’ digital and online services including apps such as Borrowbox, Kanopy, uLibrary, Libby, Storybox and more.

Thursday 12 February 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required

Wednesday 10 December 10am-11am Wendouree Library Bookings required 23

Tech Hub

iClub

AI Club

Get to know all things Apple at the iClub. iClub is an informal club for Apple users to learn more about the features and functions of the iPad and iPhone. Bring your Apple device and enjoy a free, fun and informative group session.

Afternoon tea provided.

Dive into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in an informal social atmosphere.

Gain insights, awareness and hands-on experiences with new technologies.

Using your Apple device for health and wellbeing Explore how health features on your Apple Watch or iPhone can be used in everyday life.

Thursday 15 January 1.30-2.30pm Ballarat Library Bookings required Using the Notes app Explore the hidden functions of the Notes app including checklists and scanning.

Thursday 19 February 1.30-2.30pm Ballarat Library Bookings required 24

Get Fit with AI Learn to use AI to help create a fitness plan and create healthy delicious recipes.

Adults Thursday 22 January 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required Intro to AI AI is here! Learn what it is and its basic functions in this user-friendly session.

Adults Thursday 26 February 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required

Virtual Reality Safety Induction Get ready for Virtual Reality with Ballarat Library’s Virtual Reality Safety Induction.

This guided session will take you through the safety features and basic software controls to get you up and playing in no time.

Virtual Reality Safety Inductions are for library members who are 15 years or older.

Ages 15+ December 3 December | 10 December 3.45-4.45pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required* January 12 January | 15 January 19 January | 22 January 10-11am Wednesday 28 January 4-5pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required* February Every Wednesday 4-5pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required*

Virtual Reality Free Play Take your next steps in Virtual Reality with Ballarat Library’s Virtual Reality Free Play sessions.

These sessions allow you to explore a range of experiences and apps at your own pace. This is a self-guided program, but staff will be on-hand should you require assistance.

Virtual Reality Free Play sessions are for library members who are 15 years or older and have completed a Virtual Reality Safety Induction.

Ages 15+ December 3 December | 10 December 4.45-5.45pm | 5.45-6.45pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required* January 12 January | 15 January 19 January | 22 January 11am-12pm | 12-1pm Thursday 29 January 4-5pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required* February Every Monday 10-11am Every Thursday 4-5pm Ballarat Library, The Atrium Bookings required*

*Virtual Reality may not be suitable for everyone. Before completing your booking, please review the medical conditions listed in the checkout questions that could affect your ability to participate.

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Maker Space Maker Space Safety Induction Excited to use the Ballarat Library Maker Space? Book in to attend a Maker Space Safety Induction.

Only those who have completed a safety induction can use the Maker Space.

These sessions cover important information and safety procedures about the Maker Space and its equipment including 3D printers, Cricut ® cutters and heat press.

To use the Maker Space, you must be a library members aged 15 years and older.

15+ (under 18s must attend with a guardian to sign the user agreement)

Ballarat Library, Maker Space Bookings required

Mondays 1 December | 8 December 15 December | 12 January 19 January | 2 February 9 February | 16 February 23 February 2-3pm Wednesdays 10 December | 21 January 4 February | 18 February 5.30-6.30pm Attendees must be library members Sign up for your membership online or in person at our Ballarat, Sebastopol or Wendouree Libraries. libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ services/join-the-library

Ages 15+

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Summer Saturdays in the Maker Space Come along to Ballarat Library Maker Space on Saturday mornings and work alongside other community creatives. Our friendly staff are on hand to guide you through using our 3D printer, sewing machines/overlocker, sublimation printer, heat press and badge makers.

This session is designed for the community to freely play with the technology on-hand so please bring a project idea and an adventurous spirit.

Participants must be library members, aged 15 years or over and have completed a Maker Space Safety Induction.

15+ Ballarat Library, Maker Space Bookings required December 6 December | 13 December 9.30am-12pm January 17 January | 24 January 31 January 9.30am-12pm February 7 February |14 February 21 February | 28 February 9.30am-12pm

See page 26 for session times.

Ages 15+

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Maker Space Drop-In Come along to Ballarat Library Maker Space and work alongside other community creatives.

Staff are on-hand to guide you through using our 3D printer, sewing machines/overlocker, sublimation printer, heat press and badge makers. This session is designed for the community to freely play with the technology so please bring a project idea and an adventurous spirit.

Participants must be library members, aged 15 years or over and have completed a Maker Space Safety Induction.

See page 26 for session times.

15+ Ballarat Library, Maker Space Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.

Mondays 1 December | 8 December 15 December | 12 January 19 January | 2 February 9 February | 16 February 23 February 3-6pm Thursdays 4 December | 11 December 18 December | 15 January 22 January | 29 January 5 February | 12 February 19 February | 26 February 9.30am-12pm 28

3D Printing Q&A Increase your 3D Printing and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) skills. Book a 1-hour session and get tips and tricks for your CAD models. Learn to use the Bambu Carbon multi-coloured print settings to bring your models to life.

Adults Fridays 5 December | 12 December 16 January | 23 January 30 January | 6 February 13 February | 20 February 27 February 9.30-10.30am Ballarat Library, Maker Space Bookings required

City of Ballarat Holiday Season Closures Art Gallery of Ballarat Closed for building upgrades Backspace Gallery Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day Ballarat Animal Shelter Closed on public holidays Animal Management staff will be available on call Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre (and outdoor pools) Closed Christmas Day Ballarat Visitor Information Centres Ballarat Town Hall Closed Christmas Day Open weekdays 8:30am to 5pm and weekends/public holidays 10am to 4pm Ballarat Botanic Gardens Closed Christmas Day Open weekdays, weekends and public holidays 11am - 3pm

Family and Children’s Services Parent Place Closed 25 December – 1 January 2026 Maternal and Child Health services Closed 25 December – 1 January 2026 (MCH Line 13 22 29 is open 24 hours and staffed by MCH nurses) Children’s Centres at Girrabanya and Wendouree Closed 25 December – 2 January 2026 (re-opening 5 January 2026) Rowan View Children’s Centre Closed 19 December – 2 January 2026 (re-opening 5 January 2025) Children’s Centre at Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre Closed 25 December and reopen Monday 12 January 2026 Robert Clark Conservatory Closed on public holidays

Customer Service Centre Closed 25 December – 1 January (re-opening 2 January) Eureka Centre Closed Christmas Day and Boxing Day

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DIGITAL LIBRARY BorrowBox

Kanopy

BorrowBox is a vast library of ebooks, audiobooks, magazines and newspapers available for download to your computer or mobile device.

Kanopy offers more than 30,000 of the world’s best films and TV series, including award-winning documentaries, world cinema, indie and classic films.

Libby Libby is a vast library of ebooks and audiobooks available for download. Use the Libby app to access the collection on your mobile device.

LinkedIn Learning is a premium online learning platform with thousands of hours of video training courses, covering a huge range of business, computing/IT and creative subjects.

StoryBox Library uLibrary Discover a new way to experience your favourite books. uLibrary has a range of audiobooks to listen to on your mobile device or computer.

Pressreader With over 6,000 publications from over 100 countries in 60+ languages, Pressreader provides access to magazines and newspapers on your mobile device or computer.

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StoryBox Library features engaging Australian children’s stories read by some of Australia’s finest storytellers. Their stories are a little bit cheeky, a little bit charming and a whole lot of fun!

Libraries Victoria App Easily search our catalogue, manage your account, virtually store your library card and access our Digital Library, all from the Libraries Victoria app.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR BALLARAT LIBRARIES MEMBERSHIP With a Ballarat Libraries membership you can:

Borrow

Access

Unlimited items, including books, audiobooks, magazines and DVDs.

Up to 2.5 million items, thanks to the Libraries Victoria network.

Browse Our Digital Library, featuring ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, film streaming, and more.

Not yet a member?

Join Online

You can sign up for a digital or full membership online and access our Digital Library now.

Sign up at: libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ services/join-the-library

Reserve The items you want at a time and place that suits you.

Join at the library: Head to any Ballarat Libraries branch with your ID and proof of address. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian might need to sign up on your behalf.

Scan the QR code below

Print, Scan, Copy Documents using your own device or one of our PCs.

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Ballarat Libraries Libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au ballaratlibraries@ballarat.vic.gov.au @ballaratlibraries @ballaratlibraries

Ballarat Library 5338 6850 178 Doveton Street North, Ballarat Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30am-6pm Wednesday 9.30am-7pm Saturday 9.30am-4pm Sunday 1-4pm

Sebastopol Library 5335 7985 181 Albert Street, Sebastopol Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday 9.30am-5pm Thursday 9.30am-8pm Saturday 9.30am-12pm Sunday closed

Wendouree Library 5339 3505 Stockland Wendouree Shopping Centre Monday to Friday 9.30am-5pm Saturday 9.30am-12pm Sunday closed

Library Outreach Lucas Library Kiosk at Lucas Community Hub 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

Buninyong Buninyong Community House 407 Warrenheip Street Thursdays 2–5pm

Ballarat Research Hub at Eureka (BRHAE) 5333 0306 102 Stawell Street South Ballarat East Monday-Thursday 10am-4.30pm

Community Hubs Djila-tjarriu Community Hub 5329 1620 18 Donegal Drive, Alfredton Monday-Friday 9am-4pm

Lucas Community Hub 5329 1620 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas Monday-Friday 9am-4pm