Library Newsletter

Published on 10 February 2025

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Make a date with us in 2025!
Our membership promotion runs through the end of February—spread the word! If you join and borrow items during this month, you will be entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win a $100 PACC (Performance Arts Culture Cessnock) voucher for a show on us. If you already possess a library card, using it in February will also qualify you for the lucky draw for a voucher!
Celebrate Seniors Festival at Your Local Library!
The library is thrilled to be hosting a fantastic line up of events as part of the Seniors Festival! We've got something for everyone, from history buffs to tech (and Elvis) enthusiasts, from creative souls to those looking for a bit of gentle movement. Join us for learning, laughter, and community connection. Check out the jam-packed schedule by clicking on the image.
Your Time Starts Now: An Evening with Julie Goodwin
PACC Cessnock | Sat 5 April 2025, 6:30-7:30pm
We initially fell in love with Julie Goodwin 15 years ago during the first season of MasterChef. Her simple, honest food resonated with so many of us. Since then, she's forged a media career that encompasses almost every facet of the entertainment world - from breakfast radio and TV to reality TV star on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here! to columnist for Australian Women’s Weekly and book author. In this very special Newcastle Writers Festival event on SATURDAY 5 APRIL 2025, Julie speaks about her extraordinary experiences - the highs and the lows - and how they have shaped who she is today.
Searching for the perfect Christmas gift? Why not pick up some tickets!
Cessnock Library | from Tuesday 4 February
Get ready to unleash your inner bookworm because our Cessnock Library Foyer Book Sale is making a grand comeback in February! Mark your calendars for a 9am kickoff on Tuesday 4 February. You won’t want to miss it!
Speaking of Books: Sheldon Baverstock - They Make Cheese in Nimbin, Don’t They?
Cessnock Library | Thursday 6 February, 6.00-7.00pm
A family drama that spans decades and explores the unexpected twists and turns that make life worth living...

When Eva moves out to volunteer as a nurse in a hospital during World War II and her husband Peter joins the navy, they escape a war that rages within the family home.

“An inspiring tale of immigration, family and life in the small community township… What a wonderful read and a hard book to have end…” Patricia, book reviewer
Heathy Living Author talk + wild fermentation demonstration
Cessnock Library | Saturday 8 Feb, 10.30am-12.00pm
Join Anna Axisa, author of the popular homesteading book "Homegrown Healthy Living" for an enlightening talk at Cessnock Library. Anna will share her personal journey and insights from the past decade of homestead living, discussing topics such as permaculture living, organic gardening, fermentation, composting, worm farming, and much more. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a knowledgeable and passionate homesteader!
Learn how to make your own sauerkraut simply at home- with Anna Axisa.
❌Protect yourself from Scams❌
Cessnock City Library and NBN® are hosting a Scams Awareness Session to help keep residents safe from scammers in 2025.
�� Cessnock Library, 65-67 Vincent Street
��️Monday, 10 February 2025
10:30am to 11:30am
Join us for an interactive session covering how to identify scams, how do scams work and what to do if you think you’ve been scammed.
Our tech Savvy Seniors workshops with Harry from Seniors, Tech & Tea are held at both Kurri Kurri Library & Cessnock City Library.
�� ��‍�� All your favourite topics are included: smartphones, laptops, video calls, seniors' cards, transport apps, online safety, tablets, iPads, smart assistants, and more!
��There is also general Q&A time at each session to ask Harry anything about tech.
Visit Cessnock or Kurri Kurri Library to grab a program or click the image to see the full program.
�� Alternatively, call us (4993 4399 for Cessnock & 4937 1638 for Kurri Kurri) and the team at the front desk can also help you with booking.
Speaking of Books: Penelope Janu – The Summerfield Saddler
Cessnock Library | Mon 17 February, 4.00-5.00pm
We’re thrilled to host award-winning Australian author Penelope Janu as she presents her latest novel, The Summerfield Saddler.

Dive into the charming world of Summerfield, where Mackenzie Henry leads a peaceful life as a saddler. But when her grandfather tasks her with restoring land damaged by mining, she finds herself entangled in a documentary that uncovers buried secrets and ignites unexpected romance. Will the enigmatic Kit Thorsen be a companion or a complication for Mackenzie?

It's a heart-warming story that explores love, resilience, and the beauty of community. Books will be available for sale and signing, so don’t miss this chance to meet Penelope and get your copy!

Join us for an engaging discussion and a glimpse into the life of a talented author. We look forward to seeing you there!
Speaking of Books: Rod Henderson – Stop Screaming I’m Scared Too
Kurri Kurri Library | Tue 25 February, 5.30-6.30pm
Join Us for an Inspiring Evening with Rod Henderson at Kurri Kurri Library!

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable event featuring Rod Henderson. Rod will share his compelling journey through 22 years of service in the Australian Army, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a soldier from the perspective of someone who has witnessed both the challenges and triumphs of military life.

Having served during one of the most demanding periods in Australian military history, Rod’s experiences range from deployments in East Timor and Afghanistan to counter-terrorism operations back home. His story is not of a general or a special forces hero, but rather of a dedicated regular soldier whose trials and tribulations resonate with authenticity and courage.

Through heartfelt anecdotes infused with humour and honesty, Rod will discuss the physical and mental health challenges he faced and the healing he found within the storied walls of the Australian War Memorial. His memoir highlights the importance of sharing the little-known stories of ordinary soldiers and underscores the therapeutic power of storytelling.

Don't miss this chance to hear from a true soldier in stories that deserve to be told. Whether you're a veteran, a supporter of ourarmed forces, or simply curious about military life, this event promises to be eye-opening and inspiring.
Looking to refresh your mind, body, and spirit? Join Kristy for an Awaken to Wellness session at either the Cessnock or Kurri Kurri libraries. Prepare yourself for a transformative journey of self-discovery and holistic healing, featuring all your favorites! Enjoy activities such as sound healing, aromatherapy, crystals, gua sha, face yoga, and chakras.
Power Up: The Ultimate Guide to Solar Energy and Battery Storage
Cessnock Library | Saturday 22 February, 10.30am-12.00pm
Extra tickets released!
Join us for an enlightening workshop presented by energy consultant Julien Freed at Cessnock Library. As a recognized expert in solar PV, battery storage, and electric vehicles, Julien will provide valuable insights for homeowners, businesses, and anyone interested in sustainable energy.

Attendees will learn about new solar incentives in NSW, including the upcoming Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) starting November 2024, which offers benefits for residential battery storage and Virtual Power Plant (VPP) connections. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover how to harness solar energy for a sustainable future. Reserve your spot today!
Lauren K. McKellar: The Calendar Mums
Cessnock Library | Sat 1 March, 10.30am-12.00pm
Don't Miss Lauren K. McKellar at Cessnock Library!
Join us Saturday, March 1st, from 10:30am-12:00pm at Cessnock Library for a special event with author Lauren K. McKellar. Hear about her debut women's fiction novel, "The Calendar Mums," a warm, funny, and poignant story about motherhood, community, and reclaiming your identity. This book tells the tale of a group of new mums who decide to pose nude for a fundraising calendar to save their local community centre, leading to unexpected revelations and deep connections. Lauren will discuss the book's themes of post-partum mental health, identity, and the power of female friendship. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Come hear from the author herself who is an author, mother, editor. This is not to be missed!
Celebrating Cessnock's Hidden Herstories
International Women's Day Event

Cessnock Library | Thur 6 March, 10.00am-12.00pm
We don’t have to look outside our own backyard to find amazing women, doing wonderful work. So why don’t we know more about them? Hear the inspiring stories of hidden, local heroines at this annual Library event.
Cost: Gold coin donation to Jodie’s Place.
Tea Cooper, Paula Beavan & Cathryn Hein in Conversation
Kurri Kurri Library | Sat 15 March, 10.30am-12.00pm

Mark your calendars for a special morning at the library! We're thrilled to host a captivating Herstories author talk featuring three incredibly talented writers: Tea Cooper, Paula Beavan, and Cathryn Hein.

Join us for an inspiring exploration of the power of storytelling as these authors share their unique insights into their craft. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a devoted reader, or simply curious about the creative process, this engaging event promises to be a memorable experience.

Meet the authors and fellow book lovers. This is a fantastic opportunity to delve into the world of storytelling and connect with some of Australia's finest female authors. Don't miss out!
Echoes of Greta: Beneath the Shadows of Mount Molly Morgan Volume 2 with Alek Schulha
Cessnock City Library | Thursday March 20th, 5:30 - 6:45pm

Discover the Stories of Greta Migrant Camp

Join us for an insightful evening with author Alek Schulha as we celebrate Harmony Week. Alek will be discussing his new book, Beneath the Shadows of Mount Molly Morgan Volume 2, exploring the history of the Greta Migrant Camp and the experiences of the thousands who sought new beginnings here after World War II.

This special event delves into the personal stories of those who shaped Australia’s multicultural landscape and the Hunter region in particular. Through Alek's poignant research, you’ll discover valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of these early migrants. This is a perfect opportunity for anyone connected to the Greta Camp, interested in local history, or simply keen to celebrate the diverse narratives that make us who we are. All are welcome!
Lottie Dalziel: 365+ Ways to Save the Planet
and Your Money at the Same Time
Cessnock Library | Saturday 12 April, 10.30-11.30am

Save the Planet & Your Wallet with Lottie Dalziel!

Join us at Cessnock for an inspiring event with sustainability expert Lottie Dalziel! In "365+ Ways to Save the Planet and Your Money at the Same Time," Lottie will share easy, actionable tips to live a more sustainable life without breaking the bank.

Learn how small changes can make a big difference, and discover that eco-friendly living doesn’t have to be expensive. Lottie will guide you with practical advice and encouragement, helping you start your journey to a greener future.

Bring your tricky plastics (up to 2kg per person) for Lottie to take back to Banish for recycling through their initiative, BRAD. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of Australia’sleadingsustainability advocates and former Young Australian of the Year!
Nicole Alexander: The Limestone Road
Cessnock Library | Wed 16 April, 5.30pm-6.45pm

Don't Miss Nicole Alexander at Cessnock Library!

Join us as we welcome author Nicole Alexander! Nicole will be discussing her captivating novel, The Limestone Road. Journey from the deserts of Egypt to the hills of South Australia as you follow soldier Canning Christie's quest to reconcile his past after returning from war. Explore themes of memory, family secrets, and the power of hope as his life is intertwined with his dream of viniculture and finding love with the landowners daughter, Grace. With stunning prose and compelling characters, The Limestone Road is earning rave reviews. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event. This is an evening you won't want to miss!
Michael Adams: They'll Never Hold Me:
The life and crimes of Kevin John Simmonds
Kurri Kurri Library | Thursday 15 May, 6.00-7.00pm

Join us at Kurri Kurri Library for a fascinating evening with author andForgotten Australiapodcaster, Michael Adams. He'll be delving into the life and crimes of Kevin John Simmonds, a notorious Australian criminal whose audacious escape captivated the nation in 1959.

Simmonds' story has a unique Kurri Kurri connection, as this is where his infamous manhunt finally came to an end, with crowds even gathering to cheer him on! Learn how this "outlaw hero" captured the public's imagination and wrote himself into Australian criminal history.

Michael Adams, a renowned journalist and author with a passion for true crime, will share his research and insights.
It's an event not to be missed for anyone interested in local history and gripping tales of the past.
Cessnock City Library is thrilled to offer library card holders free access to NewsBank, a vast digital newspaper collection! You can now explore full-text articles from publications like The Sydney Morning Herald, Daily Telegraph, and Newcastle Herald from home or at the library.

Beyond today's headlines, NewsBank provides in-depth research capabilities including access to historical archives. Local history buffs will be excited to explore the Cessnock Advertiser back to 2001. Enjoy flexible viewing with text-only or high-resolution scanned pages. Prefer to browse at the library? Borrow an iPad at either branch and connect easily through the Hublet station. Watch our quickvideoon how to get started with NewsBank.
The Library has you covered for homework and assignment help with Studiosity! Download the app to your device orlog in here with your library card number and PIN

 

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