Library Newsletter

Published on 13 December 2024

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As we bid adieu to 2024, we're cooking up an even more spectacular 2025! Get ready to mark your calendars with a feast of fabulous talks and workshops. We can't wait to see you at the library soon!
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!
Join Our Exciting School Holidays Program!
Get ready for a fun-filled school holiday program packed with activities! All your favourites like Rhymetime, Storytime are there, plus hands-on crafting sessions, alongside Lego Club and more. Special events include Glow Art, Superhero Workshops, and Wonnarua Art and Culture Sessions. Don't miss out—register now for unforgettable holiday experiences!
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.
Need a JP?
The fabulous Volunteer JPs are taking a well-deserved holiday over the festive season! Mark your calendars: the last JP Service Desk session in Cessnock Library foyer for 2024 is on Monday, December 9. But don’t fret—the JP service desk will be back at Cessnock Library on Monday, January 6, 2025! In the meantime, if you need a JP, ask us or call ahead as several of our staff are JPs.
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.
As the new year approaches, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Kristy is back with an exciting line up of Awaken to Wellness sessions at both the Cessnock and Kurri Kurri libraries. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic healing, featuring all of your favourites! Kick off your year with favourites like sound healing, aromatherapy, crystals, gua sha + face yoga, and chakras, plus a special Chinese New Year workshop!
Power Up: The Ultimate Guide to Solar Energy and Battery Storage
Cessnock Library | Saturday 22 February, 10.30am-12.00pm

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!
The indyreads Summer Book Club is back!
This year’s book is Smoke by Michael Brissenden, a gripping crime thriller set in the aftermath of a wildfire that will keep you guessing until the end. Published by Affirm Press, Smoke is a story of murder, small town corruption and the risks of exposing it.

To read along with thousands across the state, download the indyreads app and sign in with your library card. No holds or waitlist from 1 December 2024 to 13 February 2025.
Need to return your items when the library is closed? We are excited to announce the installation of new after-hours return chutes at both Cessnock and Kurri Kurri Libraries. You'll findthem conveniently located to the right of the main entrance doors.