April 2022
It was the Dutch philosopher, Desiderius Erasmus, who once said: your library is your paradise. This month, we’ve put together a plethora of events to keep you and your family entertained. Kick up your feet with the latest read or access our 24/7 online library for electronic and audio books, magazines, and study tools.
The Sydney Writer’s Festival swings into town so we’ve invited authors Louisa Lim and Alicia Jasinska to chat about their current works. If the school holidays have you worried about keeping the kids engaged, look no further. Our Library teams have been busy organising an Imagination Theatre, Hula Hoop workshop and more. Click here for the full program.
It really is a paradise.
Happy reading!
April public holidays
All libraries will be closed on the following days:
Friday 15 April
Saturday 16 April
Sunday 17 April
Monday 18 April
Normal hours from Tuesday 19 April.
ANZAC Day, Monday 25 April
Normal hours resume from Tuesday 26 April.
New booking system
We have a new, easy-to-use booking system for library events and programs called Bookable. Create an account, then search and register for activities happening across all our libraries. You can access Bookable via the library website. We’ve even put together a short video to help you get started. If you need assistance, call or visit your local City of Parramatta Libraries branch to speak to one of our friendly staff.
Living Stories: creative writing workshops
Do you love to write and have a story tell? We’ve lined up some of Australia’s best authors to get you scribbling - Oliver Phommavanh, Debra Tidball, Catherine Pelosi and Will Kostakis will help you improve your writing skills. Once you’ve attended a workshop, you can submit your writing to WestWords for your chance to win a prize. Workshops are open to students from Grade 4 to adults. Book now to secure your spot.
School holiday fun
School holidays can sometimes turn into scramble for what to do. We’ve put together lots of fun activities to engage the senses, open imaginations and have your children working with other like-minded explorers. There’s Hula Hoop lessons, an Imagination Machine (for children to discover the world of physical theatre), Walkabout Reptiles, and more. Places are limited, so get in quick and book now
Sydney Writers' Festival
Award-wining journalist and podcaster Louisa Lim mixes memoir and reportage in her fascinating portrayal of Hong Kong. Indelible City puts Hongkongers at the centre of their own story. Listen to Louisa discuss this fascinating work at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library.
Thursday 19 May at 6.30pm
Sydney Writers' Festival
Imagine it – a snow-cloaked kingdom where two enchantresses secretly compete for the heart of a prince, only to discover they may be falling for each other. Alice Jasinska can spin a tale and she’ll tell you all about her young adult fantasy novel The Midnight Girls at Epping Leisure & Learning Centre.
Sunday 22 May at 3.00pm.
Homework help
Need help with maths, science or English? Come along to free homework help with a qualified tutor at Dundas Library. The service is open to students in Kindergarten to Year 8 and is available on Wednesdays from 3.30 to 4.30pm (during school term). To book a slot, call 9806 5960. If you’re a library member, you can use Studiosity – an excellent online study and homework help service. Not a member? Join online or chat to library staff for help.
Library eResources assistance
Ever wondered how to use our online library and the resources contained in it? Sit with a library staff member as they take you through the steps for how to download eBooks, eMagazines, and eAudiobooks. Bring your own Android, Apple or Windows device to this one-on-one tutorial. Sessions run on Tuesdays or Fridays between 2pm to 4pm. To book, contact Carlingford Library on 9806 5850.
Stella Prize longlist
The Stella Prize is a major literary award celebrating Australian women’s writing. This year, twelve exceptional books by Australian women and non-binary authors are in the running for the tenth annual Stella Prize. Reserve one or more of these 2022 Stella Prize longlist items, and see if you can pick the winner before it is announced on Thursday 28 April.
English conversation expressions of interest
Would you like to improve your English skills? We are seeking expressions of interest from individuals interested in attending an English conversation class at Epping Library.
Library members can also access free online English Learning resources
To register your interest, contact: 9806 5843
Book review
Black Cake tells the story of Eleanor Bennett, who won't let her own death get in the way of the truth. When her estranged children - Byron and Benny - reunite for her funeral in California, they discover a puzzling inheritance. The writing is beautiful and seamlessly flows along throughout the book to tell Eleanor Bennett’s story, bringing a real depth to the narrative. – Jody
ANZAC Day 2022
Council encourages our community to recognise ANZAC Day this year in honour of all Australian servicemen and women, past and present. You can commemorate the day with the local community by attending a Dawn Service hosted by our local Parramatta and Epping RSL sub-Branches. For those who are unable to attend a Dawn Service, you can access
Council’s special Online Experience, or Light Up the Dawn from home.
cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/anzacday
The autumn school holidays are nearly here!
Get ready for a jam-packed schedule of events and activities at Wentworth Point Community Centre and Library. From virtual reality family fun to a music production camp, youth drama and dance workshops! Book now
