March - April 2026
FREE EVENTS
Welcome!
I’m delighted to welcome you to the March–April program for Kingston Libraries. This season’s What’s On is packed with opportunities to learn, connect and be inspired, with something on offer for all ages and interests.
Our libraries continue to be vibrant community hubs, hosting engaging author talks, creative workshops and thoughtprovoking events. Highlights include the return of the Expert Series, creative writing and publishing workshops, and a wide range of hands-on activities — from basketry and watercolour to digital skills and 3D printing.
We’re proud to celebrate Cultural Diversity Week with performances and workshops that reflect the rich cultures within our community, including African drumming and the much-loved Zhiyin Choir. History
and curiosity also take centre stage with the Westall UFO – 60 Years On event, bringing together eyewitnesses, researchers and local stories.
For those looking to build confidence with technology, sustainability or everyday skills, our libraries offer welcoming, practical sessions — alongside regular programs that bring people together through books, games and shared interests.
Whether you’re attending an event, learning something new or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a good book, Kingston Libraries are here for you. I look forward to seeing you at one of our branches soon.
Cr Georgina Oxley Mayor, City of Kingston
The City of Kingston acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this land, and pay respects to their Elders past and present.
Cover Image: Hand drawn winners artwork By A.Spiers
Love your library?
Make it even easier with the Kingston Libraries App! Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play to:
• Store your library card on your device
• Stay on top of loans, renewals, and holds (plus manage your whole family’s cards!)
• Explore the full catalogue and reserve books, eBooks, and eMags on the go.
Sean Dooley The Birdman Returns!
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 21 April
10:30am - 11:30am
Sean is a writer, comedian, editor of Australian Birdlife, and former national birdwatching champion. He'll share his love of birds, conservation, and the joy of finding like-minded people in your local community.
With stories, laughs, and practical tips for spotting and appreciating birds, Sean shows how small actions can make a big difference for conservation.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just curious, this session will spark connection, awareness, and a fresh love of the natural world.
Bookings required.
Authors and Writers
Kylie Orr
The business of getting published: Workshop series with Cheltenham Library Saturday 7, 14, 21 March 10am - 12pm
Are you ready to take the leap from writer to published author? Unsure of the steps ahead?
Three-part WORKSHOP
Experience a practical, empowering three-part workshop series designed to guide you through the crucial stages of preparing your manuscript, choosing your publishing path, and navigating the realities of contracts and marketing.
Session 1 - The Final Edit: Is Your Manuscript Really Done?
Session 2 - Choosing Your Publishing Path: Publisher, Agent, or Indie?
Session 3 - Publishing Realities for Authors: Money, Contracts & Making It Work Bookings required.
Poetry Reading with
Cheltenham Library
Wednesday 18 March 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Sasha De Motte
Join writer and poet Sasha De Motte for a reflective author event celebrating the release of their debut poetry collection, Autumn. Some of the poems that will be shared during this reading were written right here at Cheltenham Library, making this a special homecoming for both the work and the writer.
Sasha (they/she) is a thoughtful and deeply introspective voice in contemporary poetry. Their writing is grounded in lived experience and shaped by identity, emotion, relationships and spirituality. Sasha brings a rich and layered perspective to their work.
Published in March 2025, Autumn explores themes of mental health, grief, love, family and healing. The collection moves through moments of loss and renewal with sensitivity and care, offering connection and comfort to those navigating their own emotional journeys.
Bookings required.
Romance Panel with Bridie Blake and Olivia Tolich
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 17 March 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Enjoy a romance panel with two celebrated authors.
Together, they’ll chat about modern romance, relatable heroines, messy relationships, and the stories we tell about love.
Hear from Bridie Blake, author of The Boyfriend Clause, a contemporary romance packed with fake dating, brooding writers, family chaos and
Bridie Blake Olivia Tolich
plenty of spice. Meet Olivia Tolich, whose debut Side Character Energy offers a sharp, insightful take on love, friendship and finding yourself beyond the roles others expect you to play.
Perfect for romance readers who love wit, warmth and a little emotional bite.
Bookings required.
Sustainability
Solar, Batteries & Electrifying Your Home Information Session
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 17 March
6pm - 7:30pm
Learn how solar power, battery storage and home electrification can help reduce energy bills, create a smarter, more efficient home, and lower emissions.
Presented by local experts from ZECO Energy, this session focuses on practical, independent advice to help households make informed energy decisions.
You’ll learn about:
• How solar systems work and what to consider for your home
• The benefits of adding battery storage
• Replacing gas appliances with efficient electric alternatives
• Available rebates and incentives
• Real-world tips and a live Q&A with experts
Whether you’re exploring solar for the first time or looking to take the next step, this session will help you understand your options and plan your transition to a more energy-efficient home.
Bookings required.
Enjoy a great selection of books
Find more on the Kingston Libraries App
EXPERT SERIES the
The Expert Series, a free monthly event featuring engaging talks by leading experts on trending topics like health, finance, gardening, and more. Each session offers valuable insights and practical advice for all ages, perfect for curious learners and those seeking inspiration. Don’t miss this chance to connect with experts and ignite your passion for lifelong learning.
Jeannie Paterson AI Specialist
Parkdale Library
Monday 23 March
6:30pm – 7:30pm
With generative AI now accessible through any phone or computer, its impact is growing rapidly. Providing both exciting opportunities and significant risks for individuals, societies, and democratic institutions.
This talk offers an introduction to generative AI, including the essentials of prompt engineering. We’ll also explore pressing concerns, such as the threats to artists, the risk of cognitive decline, and the widening digital divide. Join us for a timely discussion about the future of AI and what it means for us all.
Bookings required.
ReadyTechGo
A friendly, skilled team helping older adults feel confident with everyday technology. Join our monthly 90-minute digital literacy workshops (55+) covering smartphones, apps, tablets and online safety in a supportive setting.
MARCH TOPIC: All About Apps
Parkdale Library
Friday 13 March | 10:30am - 12pm
Want to feel more confident using apps on your smartphone or tablet? Learn how to find, download and manage apps safely using the App Store. Discover how apps can make everyday tasks easier, from staying connected to accessing services and entertainment.
APRIL TOPIC: Smartphone Tips and Tricks
Cheltenham Library
Thursday 16 April | 10:30am - 12pm
Feel more confident using your smartphone with this practical session. Your smartphone has many hidden features. In this workshop we uncover all the tips and tricks to help you get more out of your device.
Services Australia
Services Australia delivers essential support such as Medicare, Centrelink and Child Support, helping people access payments and services through myGov and service centres.
MARCH WORKSHOP: Create a MyGov Account Information Session
Chelsea Library
Friday 27 March | 10:30am - 11:30am
This step-by-step session will guide you through creating an account, linking services like Medicare and Centrelink, and understanding how to use myGov safely and confidently. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting extra support, with time for questions and help along the way.
APRIL WORKSHOP: Fraud and Scams
Parkdale Library
Thursday 23 April | 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn how to recognise, avoid and report common scams. Discover warning signs, how scammers operate, and simple ways to protect your personal information online, by phone and email. Presented in clear, easy-to-understand language to help you stay confident and safe online.
PLEASE NOTE: These sessions are designed for 55+ ages.
Craft and Connect Workshop with Rhiannon Gill
Cheltenham Library
Friday 13 & 27 March
Friday 10 & 24 April
10:30am – 12:30pm
Be guided by expert crafter, Rhiannon, through a series of four engaging and inspiring creative activities.
Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out, Rhiannon’s workshops are designed to help you grow, express yourself, and have fun.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to ignite your creativity. These sessions are designed for 55+ ages.
Bookings required.
Information Session
Cheltenham Library Thursday 12 March 2pm - 4pm
Curious about giving back to your local community? Drop in for a casual information session about volunteering with the City of Kingston. Our friendly staff will be on hand to chat about opportunities with AccessCare and Community Hubs.
Keep, Sell or Toss Decluttering with Julia Dyer
Parkdale Library
Monday 27 April 6:30pm – 7:30pm
This workshop is designed to help you clear the clutter, make confident decisions about what to keep, and sell unwanted items safely and easily.
Perfect for anyone preparing to downsize, simplify their home, or just start the new year feeling lighter and more organised.
Discover how to decide what’s truly worth keeping, plus simple, sustainable options for selling, gifting, or recycling the rest.
Julia Dyer, author of the book - Is my stuff really (only) worth that much? is a Downsizing Consultant and Relocations Specialist who helps people navigate the often overwhelming process of letting go and moving on. With over a decade of experience, she combines practical know-how with empathy and clear communication, guiding clients through their downsizing journey, so they can transition with ease.
Bookings required.
KINGSTON LIBRARIES REGULAR PROGRAMS
BOOKS
Book Chatters
Do you enjoy talking about different books you’ve read? Come and join our book chatters group. Bring along a favourite book or one you have just finished and chat with fellow book lovers and share tips about the next book to read. There is no set title each month.
Chelsea Library
4th Tuesday of the month 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Cheltenham Library
4th Wednesday of the month 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Parkdale Library
1st Friday of the month 10:30am - 11:30am
Book Groups
Monthly book group sessions offer a space for readers to share insights, explore themes, and enjoy engaging conversations. Sessions are facilitated by library staff or community members, with each group limited to ten participants.
Book group books have a one-month loan period, and the next month’s title is made available at the end of each session.
Chelsea Library
1st Monday of the month 2pm – 3pm
3 rd Thursday of the month 2pm – 3pm
Parkdale Library 4th Tuesday of the month 6:30pm – 7:30pm
1st Wednesday of the month 6:30pm – 7:30pm 2nd Wednesday of the month 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Patterson Lakes 2nd Monday of the month 2pm – 3pm
Dingley Village Library 4th Friday of the month 2:30pm – 3:30pm
Cheltenham Library
1st Tuesday of the month 2pm – 3pm
Find out more:
KINGSTON LIBRARIES REGULAR PROGRAMS
NEW PROGRAMS!
Chess Club
Clarinda Library
Wednesdays
5pm - 7pm
Whether you’re just starting out or already a pro, come play exciting games, challenge your friends and family, and meet other chess fans at the library.
Self-run session, chess sets are provided.
No bookings required.
FREE No bookings - drop in
Parents Media Lounge
Chelsea Library
2nd Thursday of the month 11am - 12pm
Step out of the daily routine and into lively conversation!
A welcoming space to trade recommendations, laugh over guilty pleasure TV, and discover voices that inspire - all while building connections with fellow locals. Children welcome. Duplo will be out for play.
No bookings required.
Mahjong
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, these sessions are perfect for anyone looking to learn, practice, and improve their skills.
These are not staff-led but group sessions where you can learn and play together.
Come for the fun, stay for the growth, and enjoy regular practice with fellow Mahjong enthusiasts!
Social Scrabble
Chelsea Library
Fridays 1:30pm - 3pm
Sharpen your mind, one English word at a time –with friendly competition, clever wordplay, and plenty of laughs.
No bookings required.
Chelsea Library
Fortnightly on Mondays 5pm – 8pm
Cheltenham Library
Tuesdays weekly 10am – 12pm
Westall Library
Fortnightly on Thursdays 1:30pm – 3:30pm
Parkdale Library
Fortnightly on Fridays 10:30am – 12pm
ALL REGULAR PROGRAMS ARE FREE!
Novelty Writers
Chelsea Library
Fridays fortnightly 10am - 12pm
A chance for unpublished writers to get feedback on their writing in a supportive, positive environment. Bookings required.
Puzzle Swap
Chelsea Library
1st Saturday of the month 10am - 12pm
We’re hosting a puzzle swap at Chelsea Library where you can trade for a puzzle that’s new to you. Puzzles must be at least 500 pieces, and in good condition. No children’s puzzles please.
Tea & Craft
Westall Library Mondays 10:30am - 11:30am
Join Tea & Craft, a casual weekly session to relax, create, and connect with your community.
All craft materials are provided, along with tea, coffee, and a warm, social environment.
Perfect for all ages and skill levels.
EVERYONE WELCOME!
No bookings required
Brain Training
Cheltenham Library Mondays 2pm - 3:30pm
Dingley Village Library Mondays 11am - 12pm
Chelsea Library Wednesdays 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Want to learn new skills and have a laugh with a like-minded group of adults? Come along and give your brain a workout with activities such as quizzes, memory puzzles and word searches.
CHATS KINGSTON BOOK
Love reading but short on time? This is the space for you!
Each month, we feature two books to read along with, or simply drop in for book recommendations and the latest book news.
library.kingston.vic.gov.au/kingston-book-chats
Book Group Sets
Do you have your own book group and need multiple copies? Choose from 160 titles and borrow a full set of 10 for 6 weeks.
Diversity Week Cultural
African Drumming
Chelsea Library
Cultural Diversity Week is a time to celebrate the many cultures, stories, and traditions that make our community vibrant and connected.
Saturday 21 March | 10:30am - 11:30am
Experience the power of African drumming in this high-energy, inclusive workshop. Participants explore traditional West African instruments, rhythms and songs, each playing a djembe drum. This session supports mindfulness, wellbeing and teamwork while encouraging communication and connection. Led by expert facilitators with deep cultural respect, it’s an uplifting, shared musical journey of rhythm, movement and community.
Bookings required.
Zhiyin Choir
Parkdale Library
Tuesday 24 March | 2pm - 3pm
For more than ten years, the Melbourne Zhiyin Choir has brought Chinese retirees together through a shared love of music — and audiences are warmly invited to enjoy the results.
Made up of enthusiastic non-professional singers, their performances are filled with beautiful harmonies, energy and joy, spanning classic favourites and contemporary songs.
Proudly based in Kingston, the choir regularly performs at local events, sharing culture, connection and the simple pleasure of live music with the whole community. Come along and enjoy Zhiyin Choir.
Find out more here!
Chelsea Tuesdays
Beat the midweek slump with a dose of creativity, connection, and fun at Chelsea Library!
Every Tuesday night, the library comes alive with something newfrom crafty workshops and inspiring talks to social hangouts and hands-on activities.
March
Movie Night
3 March 6pm
Pizza snack provided
Games Night
10 March 6:30pm
Test your word skills and general knowledge with us!
Solar Batteries and Electrifying
17 March 6pm
See page 6
Book Chatters
24 March 6:30pm
Have a chat with fellow book lovers!
April
Movie Night
7 April 6pm
Pizza snack provided Games Night
14 April 6:30pm
Test your word skills and general knowledge with us!
Watercolour Workshop
21 April 6:30pm
See page 21
Book Chatters
28 April 6:30pm
Have a chat with fellow book lovers!
31 March 6:30pm
New Releases
Can't wait for your favourite author's next release?
Here's a sneak peek to add to your 2026 reading list.
Find more on the Kingston Libraries App!
Find more new releases here
Dead fall lake
S.R.White
Anti-burnout book
Emma Hepburn
Lunchbox bible
Julia Tellidis
Kids, wait till you hear this
Liza Minnelli
Home food
Elizabeth Hewson
Love like this Natalie Bassingthwaite
Click
Sarah Bailey
Mistakes were made
Lucy Score
News from Dublin
Colm Toibin
Westall
Westall Library
Sunday 12 April
2pm - 5pm
Step back into one of Australia’s most intriguing mysteries at The Westall UFO – 60 Years On. This special community event brings together original witnesses, UFO researchers, and curious minds to revisit the events of 6 April 1966. Explore firsthand accounts, engage with expert insights, and discover how local stories are preserved through oral history recordings, celebrating a moment that continues to spark curiosity and intrigue decades later.
UFO 60 Years On
Panel Discussion
2pm - 3pm
Hear firsthand accounts from this extraordinary sighting.
This panel includes UFO researchers and witnesses to the incident.
Bring your questions, explore multiple perspectives and connect directly with this mysterious happening.
Author Talk with Shane Rayn
3pm - 4pm
Shane Rayn is the principal researcher and narrator of the documentary Westall ’66: A Suburban UFO Mystery, first broadcast in 2010. He will discuss his research, the documentary, and his upcoming book, as well as related school-based UFO sightings in Australia and overseas. Shane was also instrumental in the creation of Australia’s first UFOthemed park in Westall.
Recording Studio Workshop: Record and Preserve Oral History
4pm - 5pm
Hear five compelling accounts of the Westall UFO Incident, shared by community members who witnessed them firsthand.
The demonstration will also show you how to record and preserve your own stories, with practical tips to ensure your experiences and memories become part of your community’s living history.
SHANE RAYN
Workshops
Introduction to Twined Basketry Workshop with Sophia
Georgiou
Cheltenham Library
Saturday 18 April 11am – 1pm
Try your hand at twined basketry in this relaxed, hands-on workshop. Learn the traditional technique while creating your own small hand-held basket using easy-towork materials such as cotton yarn and jute. Suitable for beginners, this session is a calming and creative way to slow down, make something beautiful, and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating alongside others.
ScanNCut Easter Workshop
Parkdale Library
Friday 6 March 10:30am - 12pm
Come make something special – with the Scan&Cut Brother machine.
Join our Easter cardmaking session and craft stunning, professional-looking cards that will wow your family and friends.
DID YOU KNOW?
Parkdale Library offers open access to the ScanNCut Brother machine. Simply book a time with our staff and bring along the materials you’d like to use.
DON'TMISS OUT! All workshops require bookings
Membership Information Session
Patterson Lakes Library Tuesday 10 March 11am – 12pm
Cheltenham Library Wednesday 29 April 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Think your library card is just for borrowing books? Think again!
Join us for a tour and discovery session that reveals all the hidden gems of your Kingston Libraries membership, including
• eBooks and audiobooks
• movie streaming
• language learning
• tech help
• digital newspapers. You can even borrow unique items like a thermal camera, or bird watching kit from our Library of Things.
3D Printing Demonstration
Chelsea Library
Monday 16 March 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Westall Library
Friday 24 April 10:30am - 11:30am
Curious about 3D printing? Come along to this beginner-friendly workshop where you’ll learn how to select, customise, and print your own 3D design. Our friendly staff will guide you through the entire process.
Digitisation Station
Cheltenham Library
Monday 23 March 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn how to preserve your memories and valuable media by converting photos, slides, cassettes, VHS tapes, and vinyl records into digital formats.
Attend our information session to discover how you can bring your old treasures to life in the digital world. Don’t miss this opportunity to preserve your memories for the future!
Watercolour Workshop
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 21 April 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Come and enjoy the wonderful world of watercolour paintings!
This beginners class will teach you skills and techniques to
Borrowbox Information Session
Westall Library Friday 27 March 10:30am - 11:30am
Discover how to borrow, read, and listen on your device anytime, anywhere. Perfect for all ages, we’ll walk you through the app and all the features it has. Bring your device and library card, and we’ll help you get started. Come along and unlock your digital library!
create your own piece of watercolour art.
You will experiment with colour and shapes to create a beautiful image of your cat, or your neighbour’s or a fictional one from your imagination!
All materials provided. Just come and have a wonderful time!
Family History
Family History Group
Family History Group is an opportunity to meet other people in your community who are interested in family history research, get access to useful resources, and share your findings.
Whether you’re just starting to research your family, or have been doing it for a while, we’re here to help. Join us on the third Tuesday of every month with a new topic.
Researchingw Greek Family History
Parkdale Library
Tuesday 17 March 2pm - 3pm
Skilled researcher, Fay Karamitsos, will introduce us to some tricks and tips for researching Greek Family History. In particular, we’ll get a good overview of using Family Search to ‘unlock’ records and discover even more about our Greek heritage. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced family history researcher, don’t miss the opportunity to learn from an expert.
Family History and Copyright
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 21 April 2pm - 3pm
Working with information from the Australian Copyright Council, this session explores copyright and intellectual property, referencing and attribution, and a host of other issues you may come across when you want to publish your research.
Check out these great Family History resources
Don’t forget our Digital Library
Access a world of information and free resources.
Access Australia
Explore credible, vetted news sources from across Australia to stay informed on events, people and issues. Features a variety of local, regional, and national news including The Australian, The Age, Herald Sun and Australian Financial Review.
LinkedIn Learning
Access lessons in business, software, technology and creative skills
eBooks and eAudiobooks, eMagazines & eNewspapers
Languagenut
Discover 70+ engaging ESL resources in 20+ languages!
Movie Streaming
Kanopy provides a selection of over 30,000 local, world and award-winning movies, documentaries and informational videos.
Flipster for Choice Magazine
Instant access to Choice magazine in an easy-toread digital format.
ComicsPlus
Enjoy unlimited simultaneous access to thousands of digital comics, graphic novels, and manga—24 hours a day, 7 days a week - on your computer, tablet, or phone. There are no holds, no wait lists, and no limits.
BorrowBox has hundreds of adult, young adult and junior books to borrow.
Arrivals in English
Learning English? Arrivals in English will help you: talk to a doctor, order food, find a job and more… All in English! You will watch videos, listen to people talking, and practise asking questions – all with Arrivals in English.
Family history databases available for use in the Library library.kingston.vic.gov.au/family-history
Ancestry Library Edition provides international coverage for England, Scotland, Wales, US and Canada. FindMyPast has an extensive records collection for Australasia, UK, Ireland and US.
View the Digital Library webpage: library.kingston.vic.gov.au/digital-library or scan the QR. Have your library card and PIN handy to be able to connect. For children’s Digital Library resources click on the Kids tab.
LIBRARY OPENING HOURS
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
Chelsea Library 1 Chelsea Rd, Chelsea
10am-8pm 10am-8pm 1pm-8pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-2pm 2pm-5pm
Cheltenham Library 12 Stanley Ave, Cheltenham
10am-8pm 10am-8pm 1pm-8pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-2pm 2pm-5pm
Clarinda Library 58A Viney St, Clarinda
10am-8pm 10am-8pm 1pm-8pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-2pm 2pm-5pm
Dingley Village Library 31C Marcus Rd, Dingley Village
10am-2pm 2pm-6pm Closed 10am-2pm 2pm-6pm 10am-2pm Closed
Highett Library 310 Highett Rd, Highett
10am-6pm 10am-6pm Closed 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-2pm Closed
Parkdale Library 96 Parkers Rd, Parkdale
10am-8pm 10am-8pm 1pm-8pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-2pm 2pm-5pm
Patterson Lakes Library 54 Thompson Rd, Patterson Lakes
2pm-6pm 10am-2pm Closed 2pm-6pm 10am-2pm 10am-2pm Closed
Westall Library 35 Fairbank Rd, Clayton South
10am-6pm 10am-6pm 1pm-6pm 10am-6pm 10am-6pm Closed 2pm-5pm
PUBLIC HOLIDAY CLOSURES
Labour Day – Monday 9 March
Good Friday – Friday 3 April
Easter Saturday – 4 April
Easter Sunday – 5 April
Easter Monday – 6 April
Anzac Day - Saturday 25 April
Extended Access available at Dingley Village and Patterson Lakes Libraries Book your induction today.
PLEASE NOTE:
Programs listed in this edition are correct at time of printing. Changes may be made as required. For further information visit library.kingston.vic.gov.au or ph 1300 135 668. Popular events may offer a waiting list. Speak to your friendly library staff for assistance. Some regular library programs run during school terms only. All library branches are closed on public holidays.
TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT CONSIDER GETTING TO OUR EVENTS BY USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT IF AVAILABLE, CAR SHARING, OR WALKING OR CYCLING INSTEAD OF DRIVING.