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November - December 2026

FREE EVENTS

Welcome! As we head into the festive season and the end of another year, our libraries continue to be places where people come together to learn, connect, create and discover.

As the year draws to a close, I encourage you to take part in our Big Summer Read, enjoy our festive events and activities, and make the most of your local library over the summer holidays. You'll also find details of our adjusted summer opening hours in this edition so you can plan your visits. Summer adjusted hours will operate from 14 December 2026 to 31 January 2027.

This edition of What's On is packed with opportunities to explore new interests, hear from inspiring authors, enjoy community conversations, get creative with family and friends, and make the most of the many resources available through Kingston Libraries. Whether you're looking to attend a workshop, join a regular program, discover your next great read or simply spend time in a welcoming community space, there's something for everyone.

On behalf of the City of Kingston, thank you to our library members, volunteers and staff for helping make our libraries such vibrant and welcoming places. I wish you a safe and happy holiday season and look forward to seeing you in our libraries 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.

Summer hours are on the way!

Want to use the library outside of staffed hours?

From Monday 14 December 2026 to Sunday 31 January 2027, Kingston Libraries will be running adjusted hours.

Find all the details at library.kingston.vic.gov.au/ summer-hours

Summer Hours

• • •

Pick up holds, browse and borrow Use computers, print, scan, copy + Wi-Fi Study in a quiet space

Available at Dingley Village and Patterson Lakes Libraries to members over 18 years – induction sessions are open now! Learn more and book a session today: library.kingston.vic.gov.au/extended-access

4 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

Tania Blanchard The Paris Prize Cheltenham Library Thursday 12 November 2:30pm - 3:30pm Bestselling author, Tania Blanchard, joins us to discuss her latest release, The Paris Prize. This sweeping, dramatic saga about Maddy Rainforth’s trials and tribulations on the land is a beautifully illustrated snapshot of the challenges of rural life in Australia, as well as the rise of European fashion on our shores and the power of the wool boom that made Australia a world economic force. Tania Blanchard writes historical fiction inspired by the stories and cultural heritage of her family. Her acclaimed stories of love, loss, hope and challenges facing women are beloved by readers everywhere. Bookings required.

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Community FINDING JOY:

Retirement through a different lens Parkdale Library Friday 13 November 11am - 12pm Have you ever wondered where a simple curiosity could lead? Spend an hour with local community member Catherine as she shares how a growing interest in birds became one of the most rewarding parts of her retirement. Catherine isn't a bird expert or a professional photographer. She simply enjoys spending time in nature, discovering birds, and capturing moments that bring her joy.

Through beautiful photographs and personal stories, discover how this unexpected passion has enriched her life and may inspire you to find a new interest of your own. There'll be plenty of time for questions, conversation, and shared stories.

BIRRDAPHY

PHOTOG

BO OKS

Please note: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+

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Then What Happened?

Cheltenham Library Friday 20 November 10:30am - 12pm

Three local men. Three very different stories. One community conversation about purpose, connection and what comes next. What happens when working life changes? There’s no single answer, and these three men are proof. Marcus is a former educator and 2018 Churchill Fellow. He is now President of the Chelsea & District Historical Society and Station Manager at Radio Carrum. Steve trained for the priesthood, was in technology publishing, has written a doctoral thesis at Oxford University and worked as a clinical hypnotherapist. He is now a playwright and President of Kingston Writers Centre.

Randy is a journalist, former advertising man and teacher who has lived in seven countries. His many interests include photography, writing, music, travel, theatre, reading and community involvement. He's also a U3A Convenor and President. Join host, David Coulter, a business leader, adviser and investor. Away from work, he enjoys family, community, AFL, skiing and exploring new places. He'll get these three very different men talking about what changed, what they discovered and what

Movember Movember is a global movement changing the face of men’s health.

might come next. Expect stories, laughs, a few surprises and perhaps some new ideas about what’s possible. Presented as part of Movember, celebrating men, friendship, connection and the value of a good conversation.

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Create Photo Books Presented by ReadyTechGo

Parkdale Library Friday 20 November 1pm – 2:30pm Keen on the idea of a photobook but unsure where to start? In this workshop you’ll explore popular photo book services, how they work and what to consider when choosing one. Discover how to preserve your favourite memories or create a special, personalised gift for family and friends.

Travel with Technology Presented by ReadyTechGo

Chelsea Library Friday 4 December 10:30am – 12pm Discover tips for taking your technology on holiday, how to use technology to make the most of your holiday and things to be aware of when you have your tech with you on your trip. Make your next holiday the best it can be, with this hands on workshop on how to integrate tech into travel. Please note: Bookings required. These sessions are designed for 55+

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Spiri Tsintziras

Twelve Golden Gifts

Cheltenham Library Monday 23 November 6:30pm - 7:30pm Twelve Golden Gifts: A Mother’s Wisdom, Dementia and Love.

family’s experience of navigating dementia, caregiving, loss and grief.

Join Melbourne author, Spiri Tsintziras for an author talk about her memoir Twelve Golden Gifts, sharing her mother’s story and her

With more than 30 years’ experience as a writing teacher, mentor and author, Spiri brings warmth, insight and a storyteller’s eye to this

moving and often funny, tribute to her mother. Come along for an honest, heartfelt conversation about dementia, family, love, writing and the gifts we carry with us. Bookings required.

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Discover Voting 101: Get ready for the State Election

Make your voting experience easy in the upcoming State Election.

Cheltenham Library Saturday 7 November 10:30am – 12pm

Presented by one of the Victorian Electoral Commission Democracy Ambassadors, you’ll learn the essentials you need to participate in democracy with ease this election!

Take part in this information session which covers early voting options and what to expect on Election Day.

Bookings required.

Water Smart Gardening Chelsea Library Tuesday 17 November 6:30pm – 7:30pm Learn how to create a beautiful, resilient garden that thrives while using water more efficiently. In this practical workshop, Sustainable Gardening Australia will share simple, effective strategies to

help you make the most of every drop of water, including improving soil health, choosing drought-tolerant plants, harvesting rainwater and designing your garden to better withstand both dry conditions and heavy rainfall. Bookings required.

10 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

the

EXPERT SERIES Nature Journalling with Nothing Like Nature Chelsea Library Wednesday 25 November 6:30pm – 7:30pm Experience nature differently in this guided session which combines mindfulness and creativity. Participate in a mindfulness activity, and then practise nature journalling which includes drawing, painting and writing using botanical samples as inspiration. Dr Kathleen Bagot (Environmental Psychology PhD) is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, nature journalling educator, and mindfulness facilitator. All supplies are provided, and no artistic or scientific background is needed. Bookings required.

Engaging talks by leading experts on trending topics like health, finance, gardening, and more.

KINGSTON COASTS

Parkdale Library Monday 7 December 6:30pm – 7:30pm Kingston’s own Candice Mingo shares her expertise and passion about our local foreshore in this engaging session. As we enter the busiest season for our beaches, learn insider knowledge about our beautiful coastline, including Kingston’s conservation program, the challenges that face our local foreshore, and how you can play your part to achieve great outcomes. Candice holds a PhD in Zoology. Her research has focused on invasive species management, restoration ecology, climate change and disease spread, and marine biology. She is passionate about collaboration and supports landscape-wide approaches to conservation. Bookings required. | 11

ARTS AND CRAFT SWAP Cheltenham Library Sunday 29 November 2:30pm – 4:30pm

Refresh your arts and craft supplies by swapping with fellow crafters!

Ages 18+ No bookings required!

Got spare paint, yarn, fabric, paper or other crafty goods? Bring your surplus supplies, swap with others, or simply attend to see what treasure you can find for your next project. Save money, reduce waste and connect with other craft lovers about what they’re working on. You can drop off supplies before the event or on the day. Simply chat with our library staff when you arrive. Feel free to stay, connect with fellow creatives, and work on your own projects alongside others on the day.

Find fun and free inspiring crafting magazines on BorrowBox. Download the App, login with your membership, download the magazine, happy crafting.

12 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

A VERY MERRY MOVIE & CRAFT NIGHT Cheltenham Library Wednesday 2 December 6pm – 8pm

What’s better than settling in for some cosy Christmas craft? Pairing that craft with a festive flick! Be part of this relaxed evening of quiet creativity while watching one of your favourite holiday films. Bring along your own creative project, spend time in a warm and friendly environment, and connect with other crafters. We’ll organise the film, and you bring along your Christmas craft materials, as we get ready for the magical season. Bookings required.

DROP IN CHRISTMAS CRAFT Parkdale Library Fridays 11 & 18 December 10am – 12pm

Join us each Friday for a surprise, festive-themed craft activity. Embrace your inner elf and head down to the library to enjoy some Christmas craft. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just love a bit of holiday sparkle, this is the perfect chance to get hands on, make something special, and share the Christmas cheer. Drop in and let’s get creative together! No bookings required.

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Kids

Storytime with Santa Drop in for creative Christmas fun! Cheltenham, Clarinda, Parkdale, Chelsea Libraries Sunday 6 December 2:30pm - 4pm

For kids

Take a moment away from the Christmas rush and get creative with some fun Christmas activities. Drop in, slow down and enjoy some simple activities such as decorating a Christmas themed mask, creating a Christmas postcard, making a paper bag reindeer or having fun with festive scratch art.

Cheltenham Library & Chelsea Library Wednesday 9 December 6pm -7pm

Bookin gs are req placesuired; a limited re !

Join us for a magical 30-minute Christmas Storytime, specially designed for children aged 3 - 7 years! Children will enjoy festive Christmas stories, singing, dancing and a very special visit from Santa! After Storytime, there’ll be a special photo opportunity with Santa, giving families a chance to capture a precious Christmas memory. Each child will also receive a fun Christmas craft to enjoy while waiting for their photo or take home to complete later. Come along, get festive and make some magical Christmas memories!

14 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

Christmas Classic marathon:

Crafty Kid vs the Bandits Cheltenham Library Saturday 19 December 10am – 2pm Rated PG | Suitable for ages 10+

Watch back-to-back classics of your favourite American prankster kid, who gets the ultimate Christmas revenge on two bullying burglars who attempt to take advantage of the fact that he’s been left by himself in the house. Full of laughs, Christmas magic and classic dialogue, viewers will watch the original plus a famed follow up sequel in the ‘city that never sleeps’.

SUNDAY 6 DECEMBER

BICENTENNIAL PARK, CHELSEA

5PM FREE EVENT

SCAN

FOR MORE INFO!

KINGSTON.VIC.GOV.AU/CAROLS

School Holiday Fun with Kanopy Kids! Looking for a way to keep the kids entertained (and learning) these school holidays?

Find out more!

Kanopy Kids is the perfect choice! Educational • Entertaining • 100% kid-friendly | 15

Saturday Storytime Patterson Lakes Library Saturday 14 November 11am Sunday Storytime Clarinda Library Sunday 15 November 3pm Get ready for a splash of fun! Come along to our free, family-friendly weekend Storytime packed with songs, stories, dancing, bubbles and playful water safety activities!

REMINDER: Regular children's programs finish on Saturday 12 December and return on Monday 1 February 2027.

STORY BOX

Watch stories by Australian authors and illustrators, read aloud by amazing storytellers - sparking kids’ imagination and love for reading!

Join the Big Summer Read from 1 December to 31 January and make reading part of your summer.

Details:

Drop into your local library to register or grab more information today. Then start reading, track your progress and enjoy a summer full of stories!

Open to ages 0-18 years, this free challenge offers plenty of chances to win.

SCAN ME!

• Read 5 books or read for 5 days in a row to go into the draw for a major prize. • First 450 to sign up receive a lucky dip prize. • First 100 to read and log 10 books score a pair of Big Summer Read socks. Proudly sponsored by

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Young people Mindful crystal canvas art Chelsea Library Wednesday 11 November 6pm - 7:30pm Ages 13-18 years Feeling the end-of-term crunch? Take a break from the study, assignments and exam stress and come chill out at the library. We’ll put on some music, slow down and enjoy

some creative, mindful A chance to pause, time while you create your breathe and recharge very own crystal canvas before the final push of artwork. the term. Choose between a colourful kookaburra or toucan, then relax, get creative and let the crystals do the sparkling! • Creativity • Mindful moments • Music BO OKIN

YOUTH

STUDY SPACE

GS REQUIRED

Need somewhere quiet to get things done? High school students can drop in to our Study Space at Parkdale Library, with no bookings required. Friday 16 October to Friday 13 November Available during all library opening hours Plus, all our libraries offer study desks, public computers and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're studying for exams, finishing an assignment or just looking for a calm space to think, we've got you covered.

18 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

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!

Songs From the Firefront Tim Winton

Storytelling Isabel Allende

Shot Shelley Burr

Just Desserts Kerry Greenwood

Lost Laneways of Melbourne Robyn Annear

Is it Too Late to Make a Run For It Judi Dench

Find more new releases here

Live Free Jelena Dokic

Look at Me Dustin Hoffman

In One Brief Moment All Eternity Elif Shafak | 19

November is Ausmusic Month, the perfect time to celebrate Australia’s incredible music scene. Discover a biography of your favourite Australian artist, explore music history through our collection, or stream music documentaries with your library membership on Kanopy. Whether you’re into rock, pop, indie or country, your library is a great place to connect with Australian stories and sounds. Celebrate Ausmusic Month with us!

Books

It's Not For You Kelly-Dawn Hellmrich

Love Like This Natalie Bassingthwaighte

No Secrets Graham Bidstrup

Minds Went Walking Paul Kelly's Songs Reimagined Various Authors

CDs

The Loved Ones Introducing... Magic Box The Gnomes

Volcanic Rock Buffalo

The Loner Vic Simms

20 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

Only Human Mark Gillespie

Volunteer Tutor Scheme: Volunteer Information session Opportunities Cheltenham Library Thursday 19 November 2pm – 3pm

Kingston Council Volunteer Information Session Cheltenham Library Tuesday 10 November 2pm – 4pm This informal session is a great opportunity to learn more about volunteering with Council, ask questions, meet some of our team, and discover the range of volunteering opportunities and current vacancies available at Council. Whether you are curious about volunteering or ready to get involved, simply drop in and have a chat with us.

Parkdale Library Thursday 26 November 11am – 12pm Learn how you can make a difference through the Volunteer Tutor Scheme. Through the Melbourne Australian Migrant English Program, volunteer tutors support refugees and migrants to practise English, learn about Australia and connect to the local community. Be inspired by firsthand accounts on what it’s like to help others to build a strong foundation when they are new in our community, through one hour of volunteering a week. At the same time, volunteers make new connections, learn about other cultures and develop new skills. Discover the next steps for starting your volunteering journey. Bookings required.

Scan QR to find out more

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Puzzles Library Letters

Enjoy a mindful break and boost your brain health with our fun word puzzle.

Find as many words as you can using a circle of 9 letters. Every valid word must contain the central letter, use only available letters, and be at least 4 letters long.

5 4

4 4

Brain Teasers 8

M L

Sudoku

9 LETTER WORD:

5 5 2

Answers: 9 Letter Word - MUSICALLY Brain Teasers - Sand Box, Sit Down, Little House on the Prairie, Unfinished Business, Tricycle, Reading Between the Lines.

22 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026

Regular Programs Enjoy something new at your library! From books and brain teasers to games, crafts and community connections, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

DROP IN EVENTS

Chelsea Library

Cheltenham Library

Parkdale Library

Book Chatters Tuesday 24 November 6:30pm - 7:30pm

3D Printing Workshop Tuesday 24 November 2:30pm - 3:30pm *Bookings required

Book Chatters Friday 6 November Friday 4 December 10:30am - 11:30am

Book Chatters Wednesday 25 November 6:30pm - 7:30pm

Learn how to use the Digitisation Station Tuesday 10 November 2:30pm - 3:30pm *Bookings required

Brain Training Wednesdays 1:30pm - 2:30pm Social Scrabble Fridays 1:30pm - 3pm Puzzle Swap Saturday 7 November Saturday 5 December 10am - 12pm Movie Night Tuesday 1 December 6pm Games Night Tuesday 10 November Tuesday 8 December 6:30pm Unlock Your Membership Thursday 12 November 10:30am - 11:30am *Bookings required BorrowBox Information Session Friday 18 December 10:30am - 11:30am *Bookings required

Brain Training Mondays 2pm - 3:30pm Learn how to use the Digitisation Station Monday 7 December 11am - 12pm *Bookings required Clarinda Library Chess Club Wednesdays 5pm - 7pm Dingley Village Library

Unlock Your Membership Tuesday 1 December 2:30pm - 3:30pm *Bookings required 3D Printing Workshop Thursday 10 December 2:30pm - 3:30pm *Bookings required Westall Library Tea & Craft Mondays 10:30am - 11:30am

Brain Training Mondays 11am - 12pm

Regular programs take a summer break from Sunday 13 December and resume in the first week of February 2027. | 23

Family History Programs

Family History History Books After all that research, you’re eventually going to need to start telling the stories. Kingston Libraries hold a great range of books with stories from real-life family history. Here’s just a sample of what’s available:

Family History programs are an opportunity to meet other people in your community who are interested in family history research, get access to useful resources, learn from experts and share your findings.

Jonathon Butler Parkdale Library Thursday 19 November 2pm - 4pm Discover how family history research can become a compelling book. Author Jonathan Butler shares the remarkable journey behind The Boy in the Dress, a true story that uncovered a forgotten chapter of Australian military history. Gain practical tips on transforming

research into engaging storytelling and learn how to turn your own discoveries into a story worth sharing. Bookings required.

Check out more on the Kingston Libraries App

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Scan for more information on Family History

Don’t forget our Digital Library Access a world of information and free resources. Be Connected

LinkedIn Learning

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.

Access lessons in business, software, technology and creative skills

Languagenut

BorrowBox BorrowBox has hundreds of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines & eNewspapers to borrow.

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.

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.

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LIBRARY OPENING HOURS Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

10am-6pm

10am-2pm

2pm-5pm

10am-6pm

10am-2pm

2pm-5pm

10am-6pm

10am-2pm

2pm-5pm

2pm-6pm

10am-2pm

Closed

10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

Closed

10am-6pm

10am-2pm

2pm-5pm

10am-2pm

Closed

10am-5pm

Closed

Chelsea Library 1 Chelsea Rd, Chelsea 10am-8pm

10am-8pm

1pm-8pm

10am-6pm

Cheltenham Library 12 Stanley Ave, Cheltenham 10am-8pm

10am-8pm

1pm-8pm

10am-6pm

Clarinda Library 58A Viney St, Clarinda 10am-8pm

10am-8pm

Dingley Village Library 10am-2pm

2pm-6pm

1pm-8pm

10am-6pm

31C Marcus Rd, Dingley Village Closed

10am-2pm

Highett Library 310 Highett Rd, Highett 10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

Closed

10am-1pm 2pm-5pm

Parkdale Library 96 Parkers Rd, Parkdale 10am-8pm

10am-8pm

1pm-8pm

10am-6pm

Patterson Lakes Library 54 Thompson Rd, Patterson Lakes 2pm-6pm

10am-2pm

Westall Library 10am-5pm

Closed

2pm-6pm

35 Fairbank Rd, Clayton South

10am-5pm

1pm-5pm

10am-5pm

Summer Hours From Monday 14 December 2026 to Sunday 31 January 2027, Kingston Libraries will be running adjusted hours. For details, scan the QR or visit library.kingston.vic.gov.au/summer-hours

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. 26 | Kingston Libraries | What’s On | November - December 2026