January - February 2025
FREE EVENTS
Welcome!
The weather is warming up and what better place to beat the heat than in one of our awesome libraries across Kingston.
We are way too cool for school with our Big Summer Read back for another year, with some absolutely awesome prizes up for grabs – register today and challenge your mates. The school holiday program is jammed packed with events throughout January, covering everything from craft to science and movies and games, it promises to be a great time of learning, exploring, and making friends.
We are also super excited about our new expert series in 2025. These are free monthly events featuring engaging talks by leading experts on trending topics
like health, finance, gardening, and more. Each session will offer valuable insights and practical advice for all ages - perfect for curious learners and those seeking inspiration.
With the new year comes a great chance for us to care a little more for ourselves and what better way to start that journey than by attending a workshop with wellbeing coach Annette Subhani. Explore the power of journalling and discover the positive effect laughter has on our health and wellbeing.
With all this and so much more on offer, there is no better time to pop into your nearest library and get involved.
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.
Register for an event:
For more information and to book: Online library.kingston.vic.gov.au/events Phone 1300 135 668 In person at any library branch
Please note some regular library programs run during school terms only.
Scan the QR for more info
Cool Off Series
Chill Out at the Library and beat the summer heat! Enjoy free indoor fun: reading, Wi-Fi, events, and more. The perfect summer escape. Cool down and recharge.
Movie Night with '80s Flair and Aussie Classics
Spend a refreshing night at the library with an '80s themed movie and an Australian classic for a fun and entertaining evening. Bring your friends and make a night of it!
Cheltenham Library
Monday 13 January 6:00pm - 8:00pm
In this whimsical tale, Princess Buttercup and Westley face deadly foes and bizarre creatures, showing that true love can conquer all, even death.
Bookings required.
Chelsea Library
Wednesday 29 January 6:00pm - 8:00pm
In 1968, four gifted Australian Aboriginal girls discover love, friendship, and the harsh realities of war as their all-girl group entertains U.S. troops in Vietnam.
Bookings required.
VR Headset Drop In
Chelsea Library
Wednesday 8 January 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 14 January 10:00am – 12:00pm
Parkdale Library
Thursday 23 January 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Have you ever experienced virtual reality? This is your opportunity to give it a try. Drop into a session. You could fly a plane, visit an exotic destination, tour a museum and lots more. It's loads of fun!
No bookings required.
February is Library Lover's Month and we’re celebrating with some great events that’ll bring the love!
We want to know why you love your library, so drop in and...
Add a note to our wall of love
Make a card for your Valentine using our Cricut machine
Enjoy a Blind Date with a book
Look for love with our fantastic 3D Love Hunt.Scavenger Can you find all the love in the library?
Come along to our Rainbow Poetry Open Mic Night.
Library Lover's Month
Knit with Love: A Beginner's Workshop
Parkdale Library
Tuesday 4 February 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Have you ever wanted to knit something special for a loved one? Join us for a fun and friendly beginner's knitting workshop where you’ll learn to create heartfelt gifts!
Learn how to:
• Cast on and cast off
• Master basic knit stitches
• Choose the perfect yarn and needles for your projects
Bring your own set of needles and yarn.
Bookings required.
Create Your Own Cards of Love!
Parkdale Library
Friday 14 February 11:00am - 12:00pm
Discover the features and techniques of the Cricut while crafting unique cards for yourself or loved ones. This staff run beginner’s workshop will boost your confidence and spark your creativity. Don’t miss this chance to make something special for Valentine’s Day!
Bookings required.
Rainbow Poetry Open Mic Night
Cheltenham Library Wednesday 26 February 6:00pm – 7:30pm
Calling all poets, spoken word artists, and creatives! Share your original works or read from your favourite pieces in a welcoming and inclusive space. Whether you're a seasoned performer or new to the stage, everyone is welcome to celebrate the power of words. Don’t miss this chance to connect and express yourself! Hosted by Miller Soding.
Bookings required.
Seniors Programs
Meet Wellbeing
Coach Annette Subhani and enjoy two great workshops to begin the year.
Her enthusiastic and down to earth style naturally engages participants in discussion and sharing.
Annette has a rich background in community development, trauma counselling, parenting, personal coaching and more.
Learn to create opportunity to bring about empowerment and enhance your wellbeing.
Laughter
is the Best Medicine
Clarinda Library
Tuesday 21 January 2:00pm – 3:30pm
Explore and discover the powerful, positive effect laughter has on our health & wellbeing.
Laugh until your sides hurt. Leave energised and joyful. Annette will empower you with real strategies to strengthen your mental health and wellbeing by bringing more laughter into each day.
Bookings required.
The Wellbeing Journal – Let’s Focus on 2025
Chelsea Library Thursday 13 February 11:00am – 12:30pm
With 2025 well underway, let’s give some time to exploring the power of journaling. Learn how it can assist in setting up personal goals and allow you time and space for personal reflection.
During this participatory workshop, you will commence the first pages of your own journal. Explore gratitude, wisdom, personal strengths, and focus on goals for the year. This will also provide a safe space to connect with others and share your story.
Bookings required.
To find out more, scan the QR or visit library.kingston.vic.gov.au/home-library
EXPERT SERIES the
The Expert Series, a free monthly event at the library 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!
Gardening Expert: Eliza Henry-Jones
Parkdale Library Monday 10 February 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Our first presenter is Eliza Henry-Jones, author and gardening expert.
Join us to discover the secrets to a thriving flower garden as she shares insights on soil preparation, plant selection, and maintenance.
NEW 2025!IN
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this informative talk will inspire you and provide practical tips for enhancing your outdoor space!
Bookings required.
Join the BIG Summer Read! Free for ages 0 - 18. Join, read, borrow and win prizes! 1 December – 31 January.
Register now!
Register via readbooks.com.au/bsr and complete the BIG Summer Read challenge to be automatically entered into the major prize draw!
For full terms and conditions scan the QR code. Scan me!
Prizes:
1st prize (ages 14-18)
- Gaming Set (Mechanical Keyboard, Mouse and Headset)
1st prize (ages 10-13) 1st prize (ages 5-9)
1st prize (ages 0-4) 2nd prize (all ages)
3rd prize (all ages)
- Nintendo Switch Lite
- LEGO ® set and $50 bookstore voucher
- LEGO ® DUPLO® set plus book bundle
- $150 Strike Bowling/ Holey Moley voucher
- Museums Victoria annual household membership
- $25 bookstore voucher First 350 to log 10 books come and collect a prize!
4th prize (all ages) 5th prize (all ages)
- $50 bookstore voucher
Sarah Allen Creative Workshops
Drawing Sessions
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 7 January
10:15am - 11:15am & 11:15am - 12:15pm
Ages 4 - 8
Collage Sessions
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 7 January
2pm - 3pm & 3pm - 4pm
Ages 8 - 12
Lili Wilkinson Fantastic Worlds Workshop
Cheltenham Library
Monday 13 January 11:00am – 12:00pm
Ages 7 - 12
Andrea Rowe Little Worlds Storytime & Craft
Parkdale Library
Tuesday 14 January 10:30am - 11:30am
Ages 3 - 8
Scan the QR to book your spot for these events and find out more.
SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Bookings for activities will open 7 days prior to each event at 11am.
To book library events:
Phone: 1300 135 668
Online: library.kingston.vic.gov.au/events In person: at any library branch
Children under 10 years must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
Please book only one space for your child if events are duplicated. Please arrive on time.
If you can no longer attend, please be kind and cancel your bookings online or over the phone so that another may have your space.
All dates and times are correct at time of printing.
Bookings are required for all of our events, other than drop-in activities.
CHILDREN'S PROGRAMMING 2025
Regular programming will recommence in 2025 from Monday 3 February. See website for details or scan here:
JANUARY 2025
Monday 6 January
Air Dry Clay Craft
Chelsea Library 10:30am - 11:15am
Ages 6 - 11
Bookings required.
Storytime & Pinwheels
Parkdale Library 10:30am - 11:15am
Ages 3 - 7
Bookings required.
Drop in Lucky Dip Craft
Highett Library 2:00pm - 4:00m
All ages
No bookings required.
Sphero Robotics
Westall Library 3:30pm - 4:30pm
Ages 5 - 11
Bookings required.
KINGSTON LIBRARIES SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM
Tuesday
7 January Wednesday
8 January
Indi Sphero Robotic Cars
Patterson Lakes Library/ Community Centre
10:15am - 11:00am & 11:15am - 12:00pm Ages 5 - 9
Bookings required.
Sand Art Craft
Clarinda Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm Ages 6 - 12
Bookings required.
Drop-in Family Board Games
Cheltenham Library 1:00pm - 4:00pm
All ages
No bookings required.
Drop in Lucky Dip Craft
Parkdale Library
2:00pm - 4:00pm
All Ages
No bookings required.
Parsley Pot Gardening
Westall Library
2:00pm - 2:30pm Ages 3 - 8
Bookings required.
Water for Wildlife Workshop
Chelsea Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm Ages 5 - 10
Presented by Living with Wildlife. In partnership with Gardens for Wildlife. Bookings required.
Thursday
9 January
Urban Nature Hike and Storytime
Cheltenham Library 10:30am - 11:30am Ages 3 - 8
Please BYO sunscreen, hat and water.
Bookings required.
Drop-in Family Board Games
Chelsea Library 1:00pm - 4:00pm
All ages
No bookings required.
Pillowcase Design Art
Parkdale Library 2:30pm - 3:15pm Ages 11 - 15
Bookings required.
Friday
10 January
Indi Sphero Robotic Cars
Clarinda Library
10:15am - 11:00am & 11:15am-12pm
Ages 5 - 9
Bookings required.
Huff 'n' Puff Bubble Art
Dingley Village Library
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Ages 3 - 7
Bookings required.
Movie Screening
Parkdale Library
2:30pm - 4:00pm
Ages 6+ | Rated PG
A heartwarming and hilarious tale about a girl who discovers she can see everyone’s imaginary friends. She embarks on a magical journey, an adventure you’ll need to believe to see.
Bookings required.
Monday
13 January
Kaleido-Puffs and Colour!
Dingley Village Library
10:30am - 11:15am
Ages 5 - 10
Bookings required.
Drop-in Family Board Games
Parkdale Library
1:00pm - 4:00pm
All ages
No bookings required.
Sand Art Craft
Chelsea Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm Ages 6 - 12
Bookings required.
Tuesday 14 January
Huff 'n' Puff Bubble Art
Patterson Lakes Library
10:30am - 11:15am
Ages 5 - 10
Bookings required.
Planes in Flight!
Clarinda Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages 6 - 10
Bookings required.
Charlie Silly Pants: in Search of the hilarious Chickalala
Cheltenham Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm All ages
Bookings required.
KINGSTON LIBRARIES SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM
Wednesday
15 January Thursday 16 January
Friday
17 January
Indi Sphero Robotic Cars
Cheltenham Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages 5 - 9
Bookings required.
Big Summer Read Storytime & Craft
Highett Library
10:30am - 11:30am
Ages 3 - 7
Bookings required.
Make your own board game - Operation
Chelsea Library 10:30am - 11:30am
Ages 9 - 12
Bookings required.
Pillowcase Design Art
Westall Library
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Ages 11 - 15
Bookings required.
Creative Air-dry Clay
Parkdale Library
10:30am - 11:15am
Ages 6 - 11
Bookings required.
Drop in Lucky Dip Craft
Dingley Village Library
2:00pm - 4:00pm
All ages
No bookings required.
Water for Wildlife Workshop
Parkdale Library
2:30pm - 3:30pm
Ages 5 - 10
Presented by Living with Wildlife. In partnership with Gardens for Wildlife.
Bookings required.
Drop in Lucky Dip Craft
Patterson Lakes Library
2:00pm - 4:00pm
All ages
No bookings required.
Scrawl Walk Robots
Cheltenham Library
2:30pm - 3:15pm
Ages 8 - 11
Bookings required.
Movie Screening
Westall Library 2:30pm - 4:00pm Ages 5+ | Rated G
A fantastic comingof-age tale full of magic, adventure, and self-discovery. Kiki is an enterprising young girl who must follow tradition to become a full-fledged witch. Venturing out with only her chatty black cat, Jiji, Kiki flies off for the adventure of a lifetime.
Bookings required.
Teens and Young People
YA Chat
Parkdale Library
Fortnightly on Tuesdays
Tuesday 4 February
Tuesday 18 February 4:30pm - 5:30pm Ages 12+
Keen to hang out with like minded young people?
Come and chat about pop culture, music, TV, books…anything really! Have a snack, play a game, chill out!
No bookings required. Supported by Kingston Youth Services.
Meet me at the Intersection
While you're here, check out some of our YA BIG Summer Read recommendations above! Scan the QR for more.
Begin, End, Begin
Laurinda Alice Pung
Danielle Binks
Rebecca Lim
Deep is the Fen
Lili Wilkinson
The Erasure Initiative
Lili Wilkinson
Special Events
Navigate Your Destiny:
An Astrological Evening with Natasha Weber
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 28 January
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join renowned astrologer Natasha Weber for an enlightening evening exploring the mysteries of your astrological blueprint. Discover how the stars can illuminate your path to personal growth, success, and fulfillment.
Natasha will guide you through the Zodiac signs, the Moon's influence, cusp signs, and challenging celestial shifts, helping you navigate life's challenges with greater clarity and confidence.
Learn to harness the ancient wisdom of astrology and steer your course by the stars.
Book your seat today!
Chelsea Tuesdays
Your Midweek Escape
Looking for something fun and engaging to do on a Tuesday night?
There’s always something happening at Chelsea Library. From engaging workshops and talks to creative activities and social gatherings, there's something for everyone.
Enjoy stimulating discussions, learn new skills, and connect with like-minded individuals.
So come along and join us for Chelsea Tuesdays! Let the library be your destination for fun, learning, and community.
While you're here, take advantage of our library facilities:
• Computers and free Wi-Fi: Stay connected and productive.
• Borrowing items: Explore our vast collection of books, movies, music, and more.
• 3D Printing: Unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life.
• Quiet spaces: Find a peaceful spot to study or relax.
*Bookings required for some events.
Movie Night
Tuesday 4 February 6:00pm
Pizza snack provided.
Games Night
Tuesday 11 February
6:30pm
Test your word skills and general knowledge!
Laneway Learning
Tuesday 18 February 6:30pm
Learn to create some felt mushrooms! *
Book Chatters
Tuesday 25 February 6:30pm
Chat with fellow book lovers and share tips about what to read next.
New Releases
Can't wait for your favorite author's next release?
Here's a sneak peek to add to your 2025 reading list.
Find more new releases here
Shattering Dawn
Jayne Ann Krentz Thriller
Great Big Beautiful Life
Emily Henry Romance
Never Say Never
Danielle Steel Modern Fiction
Outback Astronomer
Trevor Barry Biography
Say You'll Remember Me
Abby Jimenez Romance
Onyx Storm
Brooke Shields is not allowed to get old
The Food for Life Cookbook
Tim Spector Cooking
Blood Pact
Fiona McIntosh Thriller
Rebecca Yarros Fantasy
The Crash Freida McFadden Thriller
Brooke Shields Non-fiction
Author Talk Series
Ashley Kalagian Blunt, in conversation with Sally Hepworth
Cheltenham Library Monday 10 February 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join bestselling author Sally Hepworth (Darling Girls) and Ashley Kalagian Blunt (Cold Truth) for a thrilling literary discussion. Ashley, author of Dark Mode, How to Be Australian, and My Name Is Revenge, shares insights into her latest novel. Her work features in Sydney Morning Herald and Kill Your Darlings. Don’t miss this event!
Bookings required.
Kirsten Alexander: After the Fall
Cheltenham Library Wednesday 12 February 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join Melbourne author, Kirsten Alexander, author of Half Moon Lake and Riptides, as she talks about her third novel, After the Fall, a story about intergenerational friendship between women, coercive relationships and power, and the endless possibilities new connections can bring.
Bookings required.
Regular Library Programs
1 ON 1 SESSIONS
Dingley Village Library
Mondays
11:00am - 12:00pm
Cheltenham Library
Mondays
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Chelsea Library Wednesdays
1.30pm - 2.30pm
*All locations recommencing February
Come along and give your brain a workout with activities such as quizzes, memory puzzles and word searches.
No bookings required.
Parkdale Library
1st Friday of the month 10.30am - 11.30am
7 February
Chelsea Library 4th Tuesday of the month 6:30pm - 7.30pm
25 February
Cheltenham Library 4th Wednesday of the month 6.30pm - 7.30pm
26 February
Drop in for a cuppa and find out what everyone’s been reading lately.
No bookings required.
Need help with your phone, tablet, laptop, or online services?
Book a one-on-one session with our friendly library staff.
Bookings required.
Phone 1300 135 668 In person at any branch
Tea & Craft
Westall Library
Mondays
10:30am - 11:30am
*Recommencing Feb 3
No bookings required.
Looking for a lively discussion after a great read? Book Groups are led by library staff or community members. Groups are limited to 8 members. Contact us to check availability and join.
BOOK GROUPS SATURDAY PUZZLE SWAP
Parkdale Library
Saturday 18 January & Saturday 15 February 10:30am - 12:00pm
Not sure what to do with your old puzzles? Why not bring them along to trade for one you’ve never done before! We’re hosting a puzzle swap at Parkdale Library where you can trade for a puzzle that’s new to you.
More information:
Online library.kingston. vic.gov.au/book-groups Phone 1300 135 668 In person at any branch
Novelty Writers Group
Chelsea Library
Fortnightly on Fridays 10:30am - 11:30am 14 February 28 February
An opportunity for unpublished writers to receive focused feedback in a supportive environment.
Tea, coffee, and Wi-Fi provided.
Group size is limited. Bookings required.
Puzzles must be at least 500 pieces, with no missing pieces, and in good condition. Children’s puzzles not accepted.
No bookings required.
History Programs
Family History Group
Cheltenham Library Tuesday 18 February 2:00pm - 3:00pm
Whether you’re a skilled family history researcher or just getting started, join us as we meet for the first time in 2025. We’ll talk about the triumphs and challenges you may have experienced recently, the resources available to help your research, and how to take the next steps.
Join us on the third Tuesday of every month.
Bookings required.
Check
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.
Digital Magazines
Libby offers over 1000 popular titles in English, Italian, Chinese and other languages.
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.
Flipster for Choice Magazine
Instant access to Choice magazine in an easy-to-read digital format.
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
SUMMER HOURS
Kingston Libraries Summer Hours commence Monday 16 December until Sunday 12 January.
Find out more
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.
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.