July - August 2026
Welcome!
Kingston Libraries continue to be welcoming and vibrant community spaces where people of all ages can learn, connect and be inspired, and I’m delighted to introduce this latest edition of What’s On.
This season’s program celebrates creativity, curiosity and community, with a fantastic range of free events and activities across our library branches. Highlights include special NAIDOC Week events celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and storytelling, National Science Week activities for young minds, and engaging workshops exploring everything from digital skills and family history to basket making and native plant propagation.
Book lovers can enjoy a wonderful line-up of author talks, book chats and writing opportunities, including the return of the
popular Story Lines writing competition for children and young people. Music and culture also feature strongly, with performances from the Mosaic Community Choir and workshops celebrating tea traditions from around the world.
Our libraries also continue to support lifelong learning and wellbeing through practical sessions on technology, retirement planning, online safety and financial confidence, alongside the many regular programs that bring our community together every week.
Whether you’re attending an event, discovering a new hobby, connecting with others or simply finding your next great read, I encourage you to explore all that Kingston Libraries have to offer this winter.
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.
Love your library?
Make it even easier with the Kingston Libraries App! Download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play to:
• 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.
The Writers Retreat
VICTORIA BROWNLEE
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 18 August
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Enter the alluring and suspenseful world of The Writers Retreat, Victoria Brownlee’s latest novel.
Set in the south of France, it follows Australian author Kat Hale as she attends an exclusive retreat to overcome second-book pressure.
Hosted by renowned novelist Helen Thorne, the haven promises inspiration and isolation until Kat senses something darker beneath the polished façade.
Ambition, obsession and secrets collide as fiction and reality blur with deadly consequences, revealing hidden dangers within the retreat and beyond.
Bookings required.
NAIDOC Week
Yarning with Elders
Parkdale Library
Thursday 9 July
11am - 11:45am
Ages 5 - 10
Cheltenham Library
Thursday 9 July 11am - 11:45am
Ages 5 - 10
To celebrate NAIDOC Week 2026 and this year’s theme, 50 Years Deadly, Derrimut Weelam Gathering Place has partnered with Kingston Libraries to present two special Storytime sessions.
FOR KIDS
Community Elders will share Indigenous storybooks with children and families creating an opportunity to celebrate culture, storytelling, and connection.
The sessions are open to the whole community, and registered children will receive a complimentary Indigenous book to take home.
NAIDOC Week Colour-In Bag Activity
Chelsea Library
Wednesday 8 July
2:30pm – 3:15pm
Ages 4 - 10
Drop in and Celebrate NAIDOC Week.
Kids can enjoy a relaxed session of colouring, creativity and celebration while recognising the rich stories, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
All events are free. Bookings are required.
Slow Down & Colour: First Nation’s Art Tea Towels for NAIDOC Week
Parkdale Library
Monday 6 July
10:30am – 11:30am
Ages 55+
Dingley Village Library
Thursday 9 July
10:30am – 11:30am
Ages 55+
Celebrate NAIDOC Week with a relaxed drop in tea towel colouring session inspired by Indigenous art and culture.
Enjoy creating a keepsake design by Kerri-Ann Taggart (Kez) while celebrating the stories and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples .
Artist info
Kez is an Indigenous, Wonnarua digital artist from the Hunter Valley.
She’s been creating art for as long as she can remember. Kez loves character design, films, spooky things and animals.
Australia’s First Treaty with the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria
Cheltenham Library Monday 20 July 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Join presenters from the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria to hear about Australia’s first Treaty and Gellung Warl, the new body created through Treaty. This is a chance to learn about the long journey to Treaty, what it will mean, the Treaty landscape in Victoria and how First Peoples and allies can get involved.
Propagation
Presented by From Little Things Conservation
Parkdale Library Friday 17 July 1pm - 3pm
Practise propagating native habitat plants for the garden. Many native animals are particularly fond of native myrtles, peas, proteas, daisies, lilies and grasses.
Learn about native plants and practise techniques such as sowing seed, taking cuttings, dividing plants from seed trays into tubes. Everyone will receive an indigenous tube stock plant to take home. Bookings required.
EXPERT SERIES
Engaging talks by leading experts on trending topics like health, finance, gardening, and more.
john sedunary
Moorabbin Air Museum
Parkdale Library
Monday 31 August 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Join John Sedunary, self-admitted aircraft tragic, in this engaging talk on the history of Moorabbin Airport.
Find out why the airport was built, how locals helped with an emergency landing, all about the Moorabbin Air Museum and its rare aircraft and more at this highly informative and entertaining talk.
Bookings required.
Check out these expert books!
Find more on the Kingston Libraries App
Discover
Bereavement Assistance and Payments
Parkdale Library Friday 31 July 2pm - 3pm
Discover what support is available to you or the ones you care about during life’s most difficult moments.
This session provides a safe and compassionate space to learn what you may be eligible for in times of loss, how to access it, easing financial stress when it’s most needed.
Managing your Money
Chelsea Library Friday 14 August 10:30am - 11:30am
It’s never been more crucial to get clarity around your finances.
Learn practical tips to budget smarter, reduce stress, and build confidence in your financial decisions. A session for anyone ready to turn good intentions into real progress.
Find more MONEY books here
librarythingsof
What is the Library of Things
The Library of Things is a collection of useful items you can borrow just like books. From home appliances and tools to electronics and gadgets, it gives you access to equipment for one-off projects or to try before you buy. It’s a convenient, cost-effective way to get what you need, while reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable community. FIND OUT MORE!
LIVESTREAM evening with David
Tuesday 21 July | 7pm
Livestream
David Baldacci has been crafting stories since childhood, first inspired by a notebook from his mother. Since his debut novel Absolute Power in 1996, he has become a global bestselling author, with over 200 million copies sold worldwide. Renowned for his fast-paced plots and compelling characters, he captivates readers of all ages while championing literacy through his philanthropy.
Livestreaming gives you a front-row seat from wherever you are - watch the event live on your phone, tablet, laptop, or TV, whether at home or on the go.
Livestream this eventregister now. Ask us how.
Scan to REGISTER
performance Mosaic Choir
Celebrate voice, colour and community with Mosaic Community Choir. Open to all singers, the choir brings together 90 choristers in a joyful, welcoming space where music connects and inspires.
Come along and enjoy music in the library.
Cheltenham Library
Sunday 16 August 3pm – 4pm
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.
No bookings required.
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 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.
10 COPIES AT ONCE!
Book Groups
Every month, our book groups read the same title and come together to share thoughts, explore themes, and enjoy lively discussion with fellow readers.
Sessions are welcoming and conversational, guided by library staff or community members. Groups are kept small (8–10 participants) to ensure everyone has a chance to contribute.
Book group titles are issued with a one-month loan, and your next read is ready for collection at the end of each session, so you’re always set for the month ahead.
Find out more at library.kingston.vic.gov.au or email library@kingston.vic.gov.au
KINGSTON LIBRARIES REGULAR 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.
EVERYONE
WELCOME! Norequiredbookings
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.
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.
Kids Children's Book Week
Saturday 22 - Friday 28 August 2026
Book Week Fun!
Westall Library
Sunday 23 August 3pm - 3:45pm Ages 4 - 10
Drum roll, please… Welcome to A Symphony of Stories!
Carp Productions’ 2026 Book Week performance brings this year’s shortlisted books to life in a fun, interactive celebration of reading and imagination.
Book your spot now for this magical show.
Little Ones, come along to our Storytimes this week dressed in your favourite costume to celebrate Children’s Book Week.
National Science Week
Saturday 15 - Sunday 23 August 2026
Looking for on fun the school holidays?
Join us across Kingston for a fantastic line-up of free and low-cost activities for kids, youth and families.
Pick up a School Holiday Program at your local library or visit our website for all the details.
We’re celebrating National Science Week with an exciting show from Scientwisted!
Twisted Science Show
Cheltenham Library
Saturday 15 August 10:30am - 11:30am
Ages 5 - 12
With crazy reactions, curious discoveries, and largerthan-life demonstrations, Scientwisted! turns science into an unforgettable adventure. Packed with interactive moments and a splash of learning along the way, this lively show proves that science has never been this much fun!
Young people
A Sea Change
Cassandra Clare
We Saw What You Started
Carla Salmon
1000 Minutes of Danger
Jack Heath A Wild Radiance
Unhallowed Halls
Lili Wilkinson
Maria Ingrande Mora Day of Now Miranda Reason
ENTER FOR GREAT PRIZES
Write a short story or poem of up to 500 words about anything you like, but it must be G-rated.
Running from 13 July to 20 September, entries are invited in age categories 5-7, 8-10, 11-13, 14-16.
Winners announced Friday 20 November.
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!
Beginner's Guide to Backyard Building
Find more new releases here
Lee Mothes
A Forsaken Prophecy
Stacey McEwan
The Courage to be Ordinary
Ichiro Kishimi
Mire Matt Nable
Cold River
Margaret Hickey
Native Ingredients Every Day
Nornie Bero
An Ocean and a Day
Hannah Richell
Meet The Ladies of the Frock Shop
Sophie Green
Brewed History: Tea Workshop
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 25 August | 10:30am - 12:30pm
Take a journey through cultures and traditions with Brewed History: Tea Workshop. In this immersive experience, participants will explore the rich tea traditions of Indonesia, Palestine, Morocco and Türkiye through live demonstrations and tastings. From fragrant spices and sweet mint blends to strong black teas served with ceremony, discover how tea connects communities, hospitality and daily life across the Muslim world. Facilitated by the Islamic Museum of Australia.
Tech Tasters
Parkdale Library
Wednesday 22 July | 1:30pm - 2:30pm
Discover how fun technology can be! Try easy, hands-on activities with Indi Spheros, Ozobots and iPads- no experience needed, just curiosity and a sense of fun.
Creative Basket Making with Recycled Fabrics
Cheltenham Library
Friday 7 August & Friday 14 August 12pm - 2pm
Discover the creative art of basket making using recycled fabrics in this inspiring two-session workshop. Guided by Patty’s lifelong passion for crafts, knitting, and recycling, you’ll learn simple techniques, creative tips, and hands-on skills in a warm and welcoming environment. Recycled fabrics will be transformed into a beautiful handmade basket to proudly take home.
Please note: this is a two-session workshop and attendance at both sessions is required to complete your basket.
PLEASE NOTE: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+ ages.
Learn something new!
Take a tea journey!
ReadyTechGo
Join our monthly 90-minute digital literacy workshops covering smartphones, apps, tablets and online safety in a supportive setting. ReadyTechGo is a friendly, skilled team helping older adults feel confident with everyday technology.
JULY TOPIC:
Smartphones Tips & Tricks
Chelsea Library
Friday 31 July | 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.
AUGUST TOPIC:
How to use MyGov & Banking online
Parkdale Library
Friday 28 August | 2pm - 3:30pm
Time to go paperless and ready to tackle MyGov and Online Banking? This workshop will help you understand how to get started on these digital services, what you can do online with these services and staying safe.
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. These sessions are designed to help navigate different services.
JULY TOPIC:
Age Pension and Carer Payment
Chelsea Library
Tuesday 14 July | 10:30am - 11:30am
Discover eligibility, payments, concessions, and support for older Australians and carers, including accessing services, updates, and where to find help, with an opportunity to ask questions at the session end.
AUGUST TOPIC:
Starting Your Retirement
Parkdale Library
Thursday 13 August | 10:30am - 11:30am
Learn how to access your superannuation, navigate financial planning, and understand government payments and concessions, plus practical steps for a smooth retirement, including health, lifestyle, legal, administrative considerations, and where to find further support information.
PLEASE NOTE: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+ ages.
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.
While you’re here, don’t forget to explore all the library perks:
• Public computers and free Wi-Fi to stay connected
• Borrowing items: books, movies, music, + more
• 3D Printing
• Quiet spaces: peaceful spot to study or relax.
July
Movie Night
7 July 6pm
Games Night
14 July 6:30pm
Test your word skills and general knowledge with us!
Lucky Dip Craft
21 July 6:30pm
August
Movie Night
4 August 6pm
Games Night
11 August 6:30pm
Test your word skills and general knowledge with us!
The Writers Retreat
18 August 6:30pm
See page 3
Book Chatters
28 July 6:30pm
Have a chat with fellow book lovers!
Book Chatters
25 August 6:30pm
Have a chat with fellow book lovers!
Discover LinkedIn
Learning to access thousands of online courses. This online learning platform, free for library members, allows you to complete courses and learn new skills.
Workshops
ScanNCut Workshop
Parkdale Library
Friday 24 July 10:30am - 12pm
Learn how to use the Brother ScanNCut Machine to make your own bookmark.
3D
Printing Workshop
Parkdale Library
Wednesday 15 July 2pm - 3pm
Chelsea Library
Monday 10 August 6:30pm - 7:30pm
Learn how to select, customise, and print your own 3D design.
BorrowBox
Information Session
Chelsea Library
Thursday 30 July 2pm - 3pm
Learn tips and tricks to get the most from BorrowBox.
Unlock the Full Power of your Library Card
Cheltenham Library
Tuesday 18 August 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Discover the full range of free resources and perks available with your library card.
Introduction to Digitisation Station
Parkdale Library
Wednesday 19 August 2pm - 3pm
A great introductory session teaching you how to preserve your memories by converting old media into digital formats.
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.
Chinese Family History Research with Dr Kristy Love
Parkdale Library Tuesday 21 July 2pm - 3pm
Dr Kristy Love from the Family History Agency will introduce us all to Chinese family history research. This session will offer helpful tips for tracing your Chinese family history. No knowledge of Chinese language is required.
Bookings required.
Scan for more information on Family History
Family History Month
Cheltenham Library Thursday 20 August 2pm - 3pm
August is Family History Month and in this session, we’re going to cover the absolute basics for anybody interested in starting their own family history. We’ll take you through all the Kingston Libraries resources for family history research and introduce you to some of the platforms that can help you get results. This session is for absolute beginners and we’re looking forward to helping you get started. Bookings required.
Don’t forget our Digital Library
Access a world of information and free resources.
Be Connected
Enjoy easy, step by step courses on internet basics, smartphones, email, social media and online safety, with interactive lessons, videos and printable guides to support online shopping, banking and protecting your privacy safely.
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.
LinkedIn Learning
Access lessons in business, software, technology and creative skills
BorrowBox
BorrowBox has hundreds of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines & eNewspapers 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
EXTENDED ACCESS
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.