What’s on at the Libraries SPRING 2026
SPECIAL EVENTS
3
ADULT PROGRAMS
5
KIDS AND FAMILIES
10
YOUNG PEOPLE
14
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE
15
KEY Target Audience
Time and Date
Location
BOOKINGS Bookings are essential wherever you see this symbol. To book, scan the QR code, visit libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/all-events or call 5338 6800.
EMAIL NEWSLETTERS Keep up-to-date with programs and service announcements with our email newsletter. Sign up at libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/ whats-on/email-newsletters or scan the QR code.
Acknowledgement of Country The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land we live, work, learn and play on, the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Peoples. We recognise their continuing connection to the land and waterways. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. 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 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and recognise our responsibility in relation to the sensitivity and significance of some of our collection materials.
SPECIAL EVENTS Blak & Bright Writers Festival 2026: The Memory Tense
Discover Creativity, Culture and History at Ballarat Libraries Ballarat Libraries hosts a diverse range of exhibitions showcasing artworks, unique items and compelling stories. Discover displays from local community groups, talented artists and treasures from our own heritage collection. Visit our website to explore upcoming exhibitions libraries. ballarat.vic.gov.au/whats-on/ exhibitions
Celebrate First Nations voices in literature as Blak & Bright comes to Ballarat Library. Brooke Blurton, Zac James and Julie Janson examine the ways memory shapes identity, relationships and belonging. Chaired by Claire G. Coleman. To view program visit: blakandbright. com.au/2026-program Presented in partnership with Blak & Bright.
Friday 4 September 6.30-7.30pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Adult Learners Week: Maker Space Showcase This Adult Learners Week our creative technologies will be on display for everyone to discover, play and create with. Our Maker Space team will be on hand to demonstrate the 3D printer and scanner, Cricut machines, badge maker and virtual reality headsets. Adults Tuesday 1 September Thursday 3 September 10am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
Author Talk: Tess Woods Hear award-winning and best-selling author, Tess Woods discuss her latest novel, The Cairo Bridal Shop. Presented in partnership with Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard and Penguin Random House Australia.
Tuesday 8 September 10.30-11.30am Ballarat Library Bookings required 3
SPECIAL EVENTS Preparing for Emergencies with Tyson Whelan
Hearing Checks with Hearing Australia
Join us at Ballarat Libraries for an informative presentation on emergency preparedness with Tyson Whelan, Emergency Broadcast Coordinator for the ABC. Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to stay informed, connected and safe when it matters most.
Book into a free 15-minute hearing check with Hearing Australia who will guide you through the steps you may need to take to manage your hearing.
This event is brought to you by ABC Friends Ballarat, ABC Alumni and Ballarat Libraries.
Tuesday 15 September 12.30pm-1.30pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Author Talk: Ken Piesse Listen to Australia’s most prolific sports author, Ken Piesse discuss his latest book, 100 Not Out: Celebrating a Centenary of Country Cricket. Friday 2 October 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Adults Tuesday 13 October 10am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Ballarat Seniors Festival Discover new interests, unleash your creativity and celebrate the joy of lifelong learning during the Ballarat Seniors Festival. Explore activities that inspire curiosity, build practical skills and encourage new experiences. Connect with others, make new friendships and create your own path to ageing well through a diverse range of events offered across Ballarat. Browse the program online at ballarat.vic.gov.au/community/ ageing-well-ballarat/ballaratseniors-festival or pick up a copy from your local library branch. 1 October to 31 October Across Ballarat events.humanitix.com/host/ ageing-well-ballarat 5320 5500 ageingwell@ballarat.vic.gov.au
facebook.com/ageingwellballarat
4
ADULT PROGRAMS Book Chats
Eco-Reads Book Chat Join us for Eco-Reads Book Chat to discuss environmentally themed literature with fellow readers. Each month, we’ll explore a new theme, sparking engaging discussions about our environment and the books we love. Thursday 24 September: Technology and the Environment Thursday 22 October: Environmental Heroes Thursday 26 November: Invasive Species 5.30-6.30pm
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. Tuesday 15 September: Whodunnit Tuesday 20 October: Unreliable Narrator Tuesday 17 November: Courtroom Thriller 2-3pm
Sebastopol Library Bookings required
Friday Book Chat Connect with fellow book lovers at Friday Book Chat. Share your latest reads, get great recommendations and explore the library collection. Friday 18 September Friday 16 October Friday 13 November 2.30-3.30pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
Ballarat Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
5
ADULT PROGRAMS
Spring Reading Party
You’re invited to our Spring Reading Party!
Album Club Like book club, but for music! Each month we get together to discuss our album of the month along with a classic album and share our latest listens. All music lovers welcome – whether you’re an audiophile, have eclectic tastes or just love the classics. Wednesday 16 September Wednesday 14 October Wednesday 11 November 6-7pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
6
Celebrate the joy of reading with and within your community. Bring along a book or pick one from our collection and enjoy live music and refreshments while you read. Don’t forget to collect your Ballarat Libraries Reading Party book bag and badge! Wednesday 11 November 5.30-6.30pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
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.
Birdwatching Get ready for the 2026 Aussie Bird Count, Australia’s largest annual citizen science event. Learn birdwatching tips and gain bird identification skills for local species. Delivered in partnership with BirdLife Ballarat. Participants are encouraged install the Aussie Bird Count app on their device before attending. If you need assistance, you can book into a Tech Q&A (see page15).
Saturday 10 October 10-11am Wendouree Library Bookings required Circlesong
Chair Yoga Explore gentle movement in this seated yoga session, led by a yoga teacher from Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre. Chair yoga follows the same core principles as traditional yoga to improve your flexibility, mobility, strength and mental wellbeing. Suited to people of all ages and ability levels. Saturday 5 September 10-11am Ballarat Library
Sing for your health in this Circlesong session led by George Williams from Arts for Health Australia. Together, we will use our voices to build layers of improvised melody, harmony and rhythm through simple call‑and‑response. Singing in a group can improve mood, reduce stress and build social connections. No musical experience required - just bring your voice and your curiosity! Saturday 7 November 10-11am Sebastopol Library Bookings required
Bookings required 7
ADULT PROGRAMS Morning Tea Join us for morning tea. Connect with other residents, chat with library staff and find out what’s happening at Ballarat Libraries. Thursday 8 October 10-11.30am Ballarat Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder. Tuesday 20 October 10.30am-12pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
Cinema Classics Rediscover the magic of classic cinema at Sebastopol Library. Enjoy monthly screenings of timeless films in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Stay afterwards for a cuppa and a chat. Thursday 3 September Thursday 1 October Thursday 5 November 1-3.30pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required
8
Be Creative Be Creative with other crafters. Bring along a project and meet new people at this casual catch up. Thursday 10 September Thursday 8 October Thursday 12 November 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Drop-in. Bookings optional.
Chatty Café Pull up a chair at our Chatty Table and make new friends over a cuppa. Chatty Café brings the community together for friendly conversation and social connection. Thursday 17 September Thursday 15 October Thursday 19 November 1-3pm Sebastopol Library Drop-in. Bookings optional.
ADULT PROGRAMS Historical Research Workshops Learn to conduct historical research in these monthly workshops at Ballarat Research Hub at Eureka (BRHAE). This series is presented by Public Record Office Victoria (PROV). Ballarat Research Hub at Eureka Bookings required Accessing PROV Records Online Learn how to select and order records through the PROV online catalogue. Tuesday 22 September 2-3.30pm
Researching Your Home with PROV Discover how PROV records and other useful records such as Lassi Spear and Map Warper can help you when researching your home. Tuesday 20 October 2-3.30pm
Ballarat History Chat Calling all history buffs. Discover the stories of Ballarat’s past. You’ll have the chance to view materials from the Ballarat Libraries Heritage Collection, including photos and ephemera. Come along for a nostalgic discussion of school memories. Share your knowledge or learn something new about our wonderful city. Tuesday 13 October 10-11am Wendouree Library
Family History Research using PROV
Bookings required
Expand your family history research by delving into the rich archive of government records including passenger lists, wills and probates, hospital and education records. Tuesday 24 November 2-3.30pm 9
KIDS AND FAMILIES
STORYTIMES! Join us for Storytime sessions at Ballarat Libraries branches and Outreach locations. Visit our website for the spring schedule. libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/kids-families/storytimes
All sessions run during school terms only.
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
Little Languages Where will we travel to this week? Learn about a different country and culture each session. All ages
10
KIDS AND FAMILIES 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. Children under the age of 12 cannot be left unattended. These session run during school terms.
Beginning with Books
Parent Place
An early literacy program designed for new parents and their little ones where you’ll enjoy interactive storytelling, songs and activities that foster a love for reading. Connect with other families and learn valuable tips from experienced librarians.
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.
New parents and babies (0-12 months) Monday 26 October Monday 23 November 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Balance Play Join us for a pop-up Balance Play session at Ballarat Library presented by Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre. Balance Play is an active program designed to develop fundamental movement patterns along with gross and fine motor skills. 18 months to 5 years Tuesday 27 October 11am-12pm Ballarat Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
A Parent Place Facilitator or volunteer will be available during the session. Contact Parent Place staff via Facebook Messenger or phone 5320 5165. facebook.com/ ParentPlaceBallarat Every Wednesday 9.30am-2.30pm Vickers Street Community Hub Every Friday 9.30am-2.30pm Djila-tjarriu Community Hub Every Monday to Friday 9.30am-2.30pm 39 Sturt Street, Ballarat
11
KIDS AND FAMILIES Game Club Sick of staring at a screen? Join this monthly club and learn to play a variety of board games. Ages 8-12 Monday 7 September Monday 5 October Monday 16 November 4-4.45pm Wendouree Library Bookings required
Author Visit: Susea Spray Discover the art of storytelling with children’s author and sailor Susea Spray. Susea will read her book A Big Blue Boat and take you on a sailing adventure through storytelling, imagination, songs and a hands-on activity. Ages 5-12 Saturday 14 November 10.30-11.30am Sebastopol Library Bookings required Saturday 14 November 1-2pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
12
LEGO® Club Show off your imaginative building skills with a series of themed challenges using LEGO® blocks. Ages 8-12 Monday 14 September Monday 12 October Monday 9 November 4-4.45pm Wendouree Library Bookings required
KIDS AND FAMILIES Art Club
Beyond the Book
Let your creativity shine at Art Club! We’ll learn about a different medium each month. From sketching to watercolour, sculpting to digital drawing, the world is your canvas!
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 8-12 Wednesday 16 September Wednesday 21 October Wednesday 18 November 4-4.45pm Wendouree Library Bookings required
Ages 10-14 Friday 4 September Friday 6 November 4-5pm Sebastopol 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 Thursday 15 October Thursday 22 October Thursday 29 October Thursday 5 November Thursday 12 November Thursday 19 November Thursday 26 November 4-5pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required
Hack It! Stay in the loop with Hack It! Come and try a range of tech-based programs including Sphero, littleBits, block coding and more. Ages 10-14 Monday 28 September Monday 26 October Monday 23 November 4-4.45pm Wendouree Library Bookings required
13
YOUNG PEOPLE Pop Culture Hangouts Hang out, meet your people and connect over what you love at Pop Culture Hangouts. Snacks provided. Tuesday 13 October: Anime, Manga and Manhwa Tuesday 10 November: Musicals Ages 12-18 4.30-5.45pm Sebastopol Library Bookings optional. Register to receive a reminder.
More Programs for Young People Check out what’s on for young people at Ballarat Libraries! We have lots of programs ranging from art and writing to comics and games. Scan the QR code to browse and book online.
Study with Us End of year exams are coming up fast. Come study with us at Ballarat Library. We’ve got space to work and hot drinks and snacks to fuel your brain as you prepare to smash those exams. Good luck from Ballarat Libraries! Wednesday 21 October to Wednesday 18 November Ballarat Library No bookings required.
14
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE Tech Q&A Increase your digital skills and knowledge. Book in for a 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. Tech Q&A sessions are designed to help you gain confidence using everyday technology. We can guide you through basic troubleshooting, but we are not technical experts and cannot offer specialist advice or services. Please note we are unable to assist with financial, legal, public housing, citizenship or immigration forms. Every Monday and Tuesday 9.30am | 10am | 10.30am Every Thursday 3pm | 3.30pm Every Friday 2pm | 2.30pm
Digital Forms and Services Assistance Book in for a one-on-one 45-minute session and get assistance with online forms and applications. Please bring relevant passwords, passcodes and email addresses. Please note we are unable to help with financial, legal, public housing, citizenship or immigration forms. Every Tuesday 10-10.45am 11.30am-12.15pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required
Every Wednesday 11.30am-12.15pm Ballarat Library Bookings required
Ballarat Library Bookings required Every Monday 10am | 10.30am | 11am
ONLINE FORMS
Wendouree Library Bookings required Every Monday and Wednesday 1pm | 1.30pm | 2pm Sebastopol Library Bookings required 15
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE
Tech Café Learn about technology over a cup of tea at Tech Café. Bring your questions, curiosity and conversation to these informative group sessions. Ballarat Library Bookings required
Navigating MyGov Manage your online government services with confidence. Thursday 10 September 1.30-2.30pm Staying Safe Online Recognise and avoid common online scams. Thursday 8 October 1.30-2.30pm Preparing for Emergencies and Power Outages Be ready when it matters – practical preparation for emergency situations. Thursday 12 November 1.30-2.30pm
16
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE iClub
AI Club
Get to know all things Apple at iClub. Explore a different topic each month so you can learn more about your iPad or iPhone. Bring your Apple device and enjoy a fun and informative group session.
Dive into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in an informal social atmosphere. Gain insights, awareness and hands-on experiences with new technologies.
Afternoon tea provided. Ballarat Library Bookings required Using Maps Learn to plan a trip with Apple Maps. Thursday 17 September 1.30-2.30pm
Ballarat Library Bookings required AI Assistant Learn how AI can help solve everyday problems, step by step. Thursday 24 September 1.30-2.30pm Using AI Safely
Apples are Fun Explore entertainment apps available for your Apple device such as BorrowBox and Wordle. Thursday 15 October 1.30-2.30pm
Learn about privacy basics, safe use practices and common myths around AI. Thursday 22 October 1.30-2.30pm AI for Hobbies
Staying Safe Learn how to protect your personal information when using social media apps.
Use AI to source ideas and advice for your favourite hobbies. Thursday 26 November 1.30-2.30pm
Thursday 19 November 1.30-2.30pm
17
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE Tech Talks Learn from the experts with Tech Talks, a series of technology presentations from local businesses and service providers. Ballarat Library Bookings required AI for Students and Lifelong Learners Discover how to use AI for written work while maintaining academic integrity. Useful for all learners, including neurodivergent people and those who benefit from extra structure. Presented by Plainlight, a Ballarat-based AI consulting practice Saturday 26 September 11am-12pm Virtual Reality Art
Decluttering Your Digital Photos Learn to transform your mountain of digital photos from chaotic and cluttered to beautifully organised and safely stored. Presented by Chantal from Photos in Order, a professional photo organiser. Saturday 24 October 11am-12.30pm
Discover a unique digital-traditional hybrid approach to contemporary art practice. Artist ReVerse Butcher shares the creative process behind her virtual reality art world, The Last Stanza. Explore the world on our iPads and watch a live demonstration of 3D sculpting using virtual reality. Presented by ReVerse Butcher, a Ballarat-based interdisciplinary artist. Ages 15+ Saturday 28 November 11am-12.30pm
18
TECH HUB / MAKER SPACE
MAKER SPACE
Where creativity meets technology!
Get making with a range of programs including drop-in sessions, demonstrations and hands-on workshops. Visit our website to learn more. libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/learn/makerspace To use the Maker Space, you must be a library member aged 15 years and older and have completed a Maker Space Safety Induction. JOIN THE LIBRARY Sign up online or in person at Ballarat, Sebastopol or Wendouree Library. libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au/services/join-the-library
Maker Space Safety Induction
Every Monday 2-3pm
Excited to use the Ballarat Library Maker Space? Book in to attend a Maker Space Safety Induction.
Fortnightly Wednesday Wednesday 2 September Wednesday 16 September Wednesday 30 September Wednesday 14 October Wednesday 28 October Wednesday 11 November Wednesday 25 November 5.30-6.30pm
These sessions cover important information and safety procedures about the Maker Space and its equipment including 3D printers, Cricut cutters and heat press. Ages 15+ Young people aged 15 to 17 must attend with a guardian to sign the user agreement.
Ballarat Library, Maker Space Bookings required
19
Ballarat Libraries libraries.ballarat.vic.gov.au ballaratlibraries@ballarat.vic.gov.au @ballaratlibraries @ballaratlibraries
Ballarat Library 5338 6850 178 Doveton Street North, Ballarat Monday and Wednesday 9.30am-7pm Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30am-6pm Saturday and Sunday 9.30am-4pm
Sebastopol Library 5335 7985 181 Albert Street, Sebastopol Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9.30am-6pm Tuesday and Thursday 9.30am-7pm Saturday 9.30am-12pm
Wendouree Library 5339 3505 Stockland Wendouree Shopping Centre Monday to Friday 9.30am-5pm Saturday 9.30am-2pm
Other Locations Ballarat Research Hub at Eureka (BRHAE) 5333 0306 102 Stawell Street South, Eureka Monday-Thursday 10am-4.30pm
Library Lockers Collect your items 24/7 Buninyong Buninyong Foodworks Supermarket 310 Learmonth Street, Buninyong
Cardigan Village Cardigan Village Community Centre 2 Mitchell Drive, Cardigan Village
Learmonth Learmonth Community Skills Shed 1 Laidlaw Street, Learmonth
Lucas* Lucas Community Hub 17 Coltman Plaza, Lucas *Monday-Friday 9am-4pm
Miners Rest Miners Rest Community Hall 8 Market Street, Miners Rest
Join the Library Join the library online or in person at our Ballarat, Sebastopol or Wendouree libraries. Sign up online: libraries.ballarat.vic.gov. au/services/join-the-library or scan the QR code.
All City of Ballarat Libraries and Community Hubs are closed on public holidays.