Library News
Get lost with travel writer and comedian Brian Thacker
‘Comedian and author Brian Thacker couch-surfed his way around the globe, made it his mission to attend as many festivals as possible and made plenty of friends along the way. He’s been to 77 countries and he’s coming to town as part of Maitland City Library’s 2012 Look Who’s Talking series on Thursday 2 February.
‘The author of 7 travel books with titles such as Rule No. 5: no sex on the bus, Planes, trains and elephants and Sleeping around: a couch-surfing tour of the globe, Brian believes that travel guides often prevent us from getting off the beaten track to really explore the local experience.
‘His latest book, Tell them to get lost, retraces the footsteps of the first-ever Lonely Planet guidebook through Portuguese Timor, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Laos and Burma. Brain examines whether the recommendations of Lonely Planet’s founder, Tony Wheeler, have stood the test of time. Along the way he meets a cast of folk from the old guidebook who are still manning hotel desks and serving in restaurants. Described as a hilarious romp, Tell them to get lost is full of funny anecdotes and off-beat humour.
‘“Brian Thacker has a cheeky sense of humour,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “His individual take on travelling makes for good reading and sometimes, good advice!”
‘Brian Thacker will appear for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme:
Thursday 2 February
6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Belmore Hotel
$30.00 (includes author talk and 2 course meal)
‘Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made online or by contacting any Maitland City Library branch. For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952.
Look who's coming to town in 2012
Get ready to be inspired, entertained and intrigued by the great line-up of authors in Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme for 2012. If you loved last year’s programme, listen up for the speakers who will be coming to town this year.
‘Look Who’s Talking
has brought a great range of speakers to Maitland over recent years, and 2012 is no different,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “From courage and social commentary, travel, biographies and personal journeys, to finding true love or turning to crime, our speakers will stimulate lots of debate and discussion.”
“As well as our literary events, the Look Who’s Talking Local History series will continue, and two new series for those interested in wellbeing and local stories will be introduced.”
Comedian and Lonely Planet travel writer, Brian Thacker will take a humorous look at the mishap and misadventure of travelling abroad, whilst photojournalist Nigel Brennan will tell the incredible story of release from abduction and imprisonment in Somalia.
Well-known Newcastle local, Helen Cummings, will relive a different escape as she joins Newcastle Herald columnist Joanne McCarthy in conversation about marriage and murder. Popular author, Ilsa Evans continues the theme of family life from her own unique perspective and dating expert, Samantha Brett, brings the light to bear on everything the modern woman needs to know.
One of Australia’s literary greats, Roger McDonald will reveal his imaginative and poetic approach to writing and winning awards, and master crime writer, Kerry Greenwood will give a glimpse into the world of her glamorous lady detective, Phyrne Fisher.
Not to be missed is regular panellist on the top-rating Gruen Transfer television show, Jane Caro. Not only a broadcaster, award-winning advertising writer and social commentator, Jane is also an accomplished author. Also on television, Meredith Kirton brings a fresh face to horticulture and will appeal to anyone who has the slightest hint of a green thumb.
For those interested in local history, the wardrobes of our past will be opened to unpick the meaning behind the clothes we wore, the memories and myths surrounding local flood stories will be examined and we’ll take a peek at the history behind the façade of Maitland’s High Street buildings.
For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952. Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made online or by contacting any Maitland City Library branch
Looking back in time
Maitland City Library celebrates Maitland’s proud and interesting heritage with a new Look Who’s Talking Local History series for 2012.
Flooding has shaped the character and physical environment of our city. They are not just a part of our history they are a part of contemporary life, as indicated by the flood of June 2007. In February, Memory or myth will explore some of our local flood stories as contributors to the Maitland Hunter River Oral History project compare and contrast their memories of floods in our town.
What would our buildings say if they could speak? Described as some of the best in NSW, our heritage buildings have pages of history behind their facades. In May, we take a step back in time to investigate the varied fortunes of our main street structures in High Street Heritage.
Long before today’s fashionistas decided what we should be wearing, dress was an important element of human expression. In celebration of History Week, Threads will unpick the meaning behind wardrobes of the past.
For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952. Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made online or by contacting any Maitland City Library branch
Unique personal insights
Ever wanted to feel what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes? A new Maitland City Library series will provide a unique insight into the experiences of local people sharing local stories.
Starting in April, the series kicks off with stories of courage, including creating a legacy after the loss of a child, overcoming mental illness and thriving in a single parent family. These are stories of triumph over adversity and empowerment through challenging life experiences.
Become an armchair traveller in May, when stories of life in other countries are brought to life by local people. In October, learn what it’s like to live with autism or a sight impediment.
All sessions are free. For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952. Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made by contacting any Maitland City Library branch
Finding wellbeing
How do we define wellbeing and can we experience it right up to the end of our lives? Look Who’s Talking Wellbeing, a brand new series presented by Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland Hospital and The Virtual Hospice, will explore the pathways to self-awareness and meaning.
“Wellbeing is a difficult concept to define, but it is something that we all aspire to in our physical, emotional, mental and spiritual lives,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “This series explores our search for a more peaceful and balanced existence with a light touch.”
Free seminars will be presented by experienced practitioners throughout the year, commencing in March with palliative care specialist Dr Susan Newton exploring wellbeing as an active process that continues throughout our lives.
More and more people are discovering the benefits of meditation. This ancient method has come to be seen as a powerful support for modern life—something that can be practised anywhere, by anyone, of any age or background. There is growing scientific evidence that meditation has a positive effect on our health and wellbeing, and meditation techniques are routinely used in the treatment of stress, depression and a wide range of medical conditions. In June, Jane Gray will provide guidance on establishing a regular meditation practice.
Our sense of self and experience of others is linked with our life story and the various meanings generated within it. Finding a way to tell your story can be therapeutic and empowering. In September, Deborah Morris and Matthew Johnstone will discuss the healing power of narrative in our everyday lives.
What better way to end the year than with a good belly laugh? Indulge yourself and laugh your way to a fresh outlook with Virginian Ross from the Newcastle Laughter Club in December.
For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952. Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made online or by contacting any Maitland City Library branch.
Watch the stars under the stars every Friday night in January and indulge your love of books through the magic of movies. Presented by Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland Gaol and Maitland Tourism, Summer Night Flicks is an outdoor movie event not to be missed.
The theme of the mini-film festival is Choose Your Own Adventure and there is a great selection of family friendly fantasy movies to choose from, kicking off with a visit to the magical world of Narnia. The critically acclaimed adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ well-known classic, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, will screen onFriday 6 January.
The Spiderwick Chronicles, based on the best-selling books by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, is a fantasy adventure for the child in all of us. Peculiar things start to happen when the Grace family leave New York and move into a secluded old house. Unable to explain the strange disappearances and accidents that seem to happen on almost a daily basis, the Grace children discover afantastical world inhabited by fairies, goblins and ogres. Screening Friday 13 January.
The Golden Compass is another grand fantasy adventure, featuring Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig. A great filmic version of the first novel in Philip Pullman’s iconic His Dark Materials trilogy, The Golden Compass is a complex and dark film, presenting an intriguing parallel universe where humans are accompanied everywhere by a daemon - an animal that reflects their personality. Screening Friday 20 January.
The final film in the Choose Your Own Adventure series is Jumanji , a cult film classic with Robin Williams leading the cast. Based on a Chris Van Allsburg short story, the action centres around a board game with Williams playing an adult who has spent his whole life trapped inside the game. His only hope for freedom involves finishing the game, but this, of course, proves rather dangerous!
Films screen outdoors at the historic Maitland Gaol, a venue once known as Australia’s most notorious prison and now a family friendly location. Gates open at 6.00 pm each Friday and movies screen from sunset (around 8.30 pm).
Tickets are $5.00 per person per movie or $20 per family per movie. Children under 5 are free. Season passes can be purchased for $20.00 per person, which allows entry to all movies.
“Watching movies under the summer stars is a great holiday activity and a great way to chill out”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “There will be some stalls selling food and people can bring a picnic along with their favourite food and drinks”.
For more information contact Maitland City Library on phone 4933 6952 or buy tickets online
Friday 6 January
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (PG)
Friday 13 January
The Spiderwick Chronicles (PG)
Friday 20 January
The Golden Compass (PG)
Friday 27 January
Jumanji (M)
Summer Holiday Fun
There’s some great holiday fun happening at the Library this January – from cartooning to puppet shows and storytelling to writing your own story.
At the foot of the storyteller’s chair is a joyous multicultural storytelling performance by a thrilling and inspiring performer. Well-known storyteller, Bronwyn Vaughn will be bringing her special kind of magic to Thornton Library on Thursday 12 January, where her highly theatrical storytelling style and her gripping stories will be enjoyed by children of all ages.
The Newcastle Herald’s Peter Lewis will show kids how to create dynamic cartoons on Tuesday 17 January at Rutherford Library. A Herald cartoonist for over 25 years, Peter will bring his finely tuned experience to help kids get some life and humour into their drawings.
Koko’s Puppets will present a selection of traditional and modern folk tales, including African stories such as the Anansi Spiderman tales. Anansi is a fabled trickster and is one of the most important characters of West African and Caribbean folklore. This special presentation will be held at Maitland Library on Wednesday 18 January.
For teens, Gerry Bobsien will present a creative writing workshop at East Maitland on Monday 23 January. Described as one of the region’s ‘most beautiful minds’, Gerry is author of the recently released young adult fiction title Surf Ache.
For bookings or more information, please phone Maitland Library on 4933 6952
At 10am on 26 December 2004 there was an earthquake off the coast of Indonesia. As the earth shifted, a massive amount of water was displaced and an underwater wave formed.
Peter Baines, along with the rest of the world, watched the devastation unfold on the nightly news. ‘I felt a strong urge to be involved, to help in any way I could. It felt like a responsibility – I had the skills, and by using those skills I could make a difference.’
Peter Baines started out as a police officer in the mean streets of Cabramatta NSW in the early nineties. Becoming a specialist in crime scene forensic investigations he was called upon to bring his skills to the Bali bombings in 2002. But it was the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami that forever changed the direction of his life. While Peter and his colleagues could not hope to save lives, they could certainly work to give survivors their lives back.
Peter led national and international teams in response to the Tsunami of December 26, 2004 in South East Asia. He headed up multiple rotations into Thailand leading international teams in the identification of those who died. After witnessing the devastating effects of the disaster, Peter became deeply touched by the number of children left orphaned and was inspired to set up an organisation that could make a significant difference in the lives of these children.
In late 2005, Hands Across the Water was formed and today it is one of Australia’s fastest growing boutique charities, having raised several million dollars. They have built two orphanages, purchased a rubber plantation to ensure sustainable and regular income and constructed a medical and community centre in the Khao Lak region of Thailand.
Australian of the Year NSW Finalist in 2010 and Thought Leaders Socialpreneur in 2008, Peter was also the first NSW Police Officer to be awarded the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal and Australian National Medal and the first Australian to be awarded the international honour of a Rotary Professional Excellence Award.
‘Peter Baines is the founder of one of the most distinctive charities in the country,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘His optimism and drive have created lasting change.’
Hands Across the Water is an extraordinary story about an extraordinary Australian, whose optimism, drive and knockabout humour has created lasting change for those affected by the tsunami.Peter Baines will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Royal River Inn
Swan Street Morpeth
Friday 25 November 2012
12.30 pm – 2.00 pm
$30 includes lunch
Tickets can be purchased online or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Tim Winton's Breath announced as the One Read One Region title
A poignant coming-of-age story by award-winning novelist, Tim Winton, has been selected as the book to read this summer. Breath, a story about the wildness of youth, the desire for excitement and the determination to be extraordinary, was selected from a shortlist of contemporary Australian novels as the inaugural One Read One Region book – an initiative by Hunter Central Coast Libraries to encourage local communities to share a conversation about books and reading.
Breath is a work of fiction set in south West Australia, where Bruce Pike reminisces about his adolescence and competitive friendships with Loonie, Sando and Eva, who all shared a need for excitement and danger. ‘Pikelet’, as he is known to his friends, is the only child of over-protective parents. From his small hometown, he can hear the ocean and its beauty and power draws him close.
Spurning their parent’s rules that forbid them from the beach, Pikelet and Loonie make the arduous journey to the coast. Desperate to master the pounding waves, the two boys fall under the tutelage of Sando, a mysterious older surfer. Along with Sando’s young American wife, they embark on increasingly risky experiences with outcomes and effects that will reverberate for many years after.
Breath takes us on a journey from the seemingly infinite possibilities of youth to resigned middle age. The characters are determined to throw off the constraints of small town life, to escape the mundane and transcend ordinariness – a trademark aspiration of youth. The drive for independence, the desire for excitement, the optimism for the future is a common experience for all of us, male and female.
Winton’s writing is assured and, in many ways, as mesmerising as the ocean landscape his characters inhabit. Its simplicity captivates and draws readers into the complex inner journeys of his characters.
‘The setting of Breath on the coast and the centring of its characters within a surfing lifestyle will have strong appeal to our own region, with its beautiful beaches and scores of surfers,’ said One Read One Region coordinator, Keryl Collard. ‘This is a great summer read - people can visit their local library to borrow Breath and participate in one of the organised discussion sessions.’
‘There will be lots of opportunities for the community to celebrate reading and participate in a range of events in their local area. One Read One Region is designed to get people reading and talking about books,’ Keryl said.
Visit any Hunter or Central Coast library to borrow a copy of Breath by Tim Winton or visit www.getoffthepage.com.au/breath
Choir brings spirit of Christmas
Telarah Public School Choir will bring the spirit of Christmas to Rutherford Library and Rutherford Community Centre next week, when they perform a selection of Christmas carols in the Courtyard joining these two facilities.
Maitland City Library works closely with local schools and looks forward to this opportunity to provide a Christmas atmosphere in the library branch and greater community.
Rutherford Library will host the School Choir on Friday 25 November 2011 from 11.00 am to entertain residents of local aged care facilities and members of the general public.
For further information please call Rutherford Library on 4932 8730.
SAVE POWER kits now available to borrow from Maitland City Library
Maitland residents can learn how to save power and money at home by borrowing a Save Power Kit from Maitland City Library branches.
City Librarian, Keryl Collard, said the kits are now available locally as part of an expansion of the program to an extra 112 libraries across NSW due to popular demand.
“There are many easy, low-cost things we can do at home to use less power and save money on bills, without changing our lifestyles,” Keryl said. “The Save Power Kit contains tools and instructions that can help borrowers find ways to save power, reduce their power bills and our impact on environment.”“Best of all, it can be borrowed for free from library branches at Maitland, East Maitland, Rutherford and Thornton,” she said.
The kits are the latest in a series of education initiatives to help NSW householders save money on bills, developed as part of the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) Save Power program.
They include a power mate to test the power use of appliances on stand-by like TVs, game consoles and computers, thermometers to check the temperature and for draughts and a stopwatch.“The kits can used in the comfort of your own home to work out what’s using the most power, what’s wasting power and the easiest ways you can save,” Keryl said.
The kit comes with a guidebook and an action plan to enable each borrower to record results and plan their improvements.
For more information, visit the Save Power website at www.savepower.nsw.gov.au/librarykit or contact Maitland City Library on phone 4933 6952.
October Holiday Fun
Loads of holiday fun is in store for local kids at Maitland City Library during October.
The timeless children’s classic, Wind in the Willows will be brought to life by storyteller Chris Jones, as he takes on the persona of Badger, one of the story’s engaging and lovable characters. Showing at Maitland Library on Tuesday 4 October and suitable for children over 3 years old, this performance will highlight the great story of friendship between Badger, Mole, Ratty and Mr Toad.
Newcastle University’s SMART science show will present Science @ Home at Rutherford Library on 5 October. This show will explore and demonstrate the fascinating science in and around everyone’s home. Children can learn how to make batteries out of food, explore chemistry in the kitchen, physics in the lounge room, biology in the bathroom, and maths in the home cinema. This activity is best for children aged 5-12. Thornton Library will host a Tai Chi for kid’s workshop on 6 October. Presented by the Australian Tai Chi Institute, Tai Chi for kids is aimed at improving balance, concentration, flexibility and focus. The workshop emphasises the fun elements of Tai Chi while still developing and relaxing the mind and body. Children ages 6 to 12 will enjoy this event.
Finally, East Maitland Library will host a Lantern Making Workshop on 7 October. It’s a hands on experience guaranteed to get messy! Participants will build a working lantern using bamboo and gluey paper that’s able to be lit with a tea light. It’s an activity designed for older children aged 10 and up, but open to younger children with parental assistance.
Bookings for all events are essential and can be made at any of the Maitland City Library branches, by phone on 4933 6952 or online (Tai Chi excepted) at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library
Maitland personalities back in town to talk local history.
Explore the trials and tribulations of well ‐ known Australians born and bred in Maitland when Maitland City Council presents Whatever happened to…? at Maitland Gaol on September 8.
At this Australian Story style event, participants will discover the stories behind iconic national cultural and political identities who have their roots in Maitland.
The evening will consist of lively discussion facilitated by Artist and former Mayor of Maitland, John Martin, Cultural Director for Maitland City Council, Joe Eisenberg and Associate Professor for Politics at the University of Newcastle, Dr Jim Jose.
Come with an open mind and walk away with a dynamic insight into the city which has been the centre for some of the most landmark events in Australia’s history as a colourful history of Maitland is presented to you at the historic Maitland Gaol.
Written and visual material, including images and recollections of Maitland with a national and international perspective, will form the basis for an insightful look back through the lives of some of Maitland’s best known identities and in doing so explore the City’s, and Australia’s rich cultural and political history.
Bookings for Whatever happened to…? can be made at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information and to book phone Maitland City Library on (02) 4933 6952 or visit www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/Library/events
Event details
Thursday 8 September 2011
6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Maitland Gaol
$15.00, including canapés and wine
2011 Write Now! award winners announced!
The winners of the Write Now! Awards were announced at a special presentation ceremony on Wednesday 24 August at East Maitland Library. The awards recognised excellence in writing by infants and primary aged children and were established by the Friends of Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland City Library and the University of Newcastle in 2008.
“The aim of the award is to encourage literacy development, foster creativity and promote pride in achievement for young people,” said Barbara Gow from the Friends of Maitland City Library. “It has provided an exciting opportunity for infants and primary aged students to develop their writing skills and be rewarded for their efforts.”
Stage 1
Winner: Ethan Cains
(Maitland Christian School)
Highly Commended: Amelia Henry
(Bolwarra Public School)
Stage 2
Winner: Grace Hughes
(Linuwel School)
Highly Commended: Alice Musgrave
(Bolwarra Public School)
Stage 3
Winner: Marcus Graham
(Hunter Valley Grammar School)
Highly Commended: Reece Rainer
(East Maitland Public School)
Death wears a vintage Pucci kaftan in Miranda Darling’s new thriller.
Author Miranda Darling will provide insights into her latest Stevie Duveen thriller, Siren’s Sting, when she comes to town in September Maitland City Library.
Darling’s heroine Stevie Duveen is back at her discreet and dangerous best as the minder of the world's greatest, and most temperamental, opera star. The action swings from Sardinia in summer to diva season in Venice and to the billionaire playgrounds of Morocco and the Mediterranean as Somali pirates target and stalk cruising mega-yachts and their impossibly rich and glamorous passengers.
A former fashion model in Paris and London, Darling went on to read English and Modern Languages at Oxford University. She travelled widely to countries such as Russia, Azerbaijan, Croatia, Namibia and Indonesia before returning to Australia to complete a Masters in Strategic Studies and Defence. She retains an interest in international intrigue and now writes full-time.
Miranda Darling is touring courtesy of the Get Reading! program, an Australian government initiative developed through the Australia Council for the Arts .
The aim of Get Reading is simple – to encourage all Australians to read more books,” said Keryl Collard, City Librarian. “It is a perfect way to get Australians young and old reading. With the 50 Books You Can’t Put Down guide, readers can find a title that’s right for them and enjoy the talents of some of Australia’s best writers,” she added
The free guide to 50 of the year's best books, featuring top Australian and international authors, will be available in all Maitland City Library branches or online at getreading.com from September.
Bookings for Miranda Darling may be made at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Miranda Darling will appear for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme:
- Monday 5 September 2011
- 1.00 pm – 2.30 pm
eAudiobooks Live at your Local Library
If you feel your life’s too busy for reading, want something to distract from a long commute, or just looking to unwind, simply download a digital audiobook, listen and enjoy! Now you can browse, borrow and download a digital audiobook without leaving your living room.
The world’s first and only digital library solution is coming to Maitland City Library from Monday 22 August. It will feature audiobooks that you can download direct from the Library’s website at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library. Simply visit the Library’s website and select from an extensive list of bestselling audiobooks.
Featuring the very best of Australian and international writers, Library members will have access to authors they have long admired, and others they may not have read. Writers such as Bryce Courtenay, Kate Morton, Stephanie Meyer, Elizabeth Gilbert and Richard Branson will all be available for download. Whether you’re hungry for fiction, business advice, biographies, lifestyle writing or stories for young adults and children, you’re sure to find the perfect title in the Library’s catalogue.
‘No matter whether you have an iPod or any other mp3 player, the eAudio downloads will work on any mp3 compatible device,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘Instead of delivering audio content in a physical product (such as a compact disc), now it’s as simple as a digital download. And it’s coming to Maitland City Library from 22 August.’ The Maitland City Library eAudio collection comes from Bolinda, Australia’s number one publisher of audiobooks, and combines high quality content with cutting edge technology.
Barry Maitland in conversation with Michael Robotham: Chelsea Mansions launch
Join two partners in crime as they probe beneath the covers of the exciting new crime novel Chelsea Mansions by local author, Barry Maitland. In a rare treat for crime fans, Barry will be joined by fellow writer, Michael Robotham, who has just released his own high octane thriller, The Wreckage.Maitland City Library is proud to host the launch Chelsea Mansions, the latest title in the eagerly awaited Brock and Kolla series, as part of the Look Who’s Talking programme on Friday 11 August.
Barry Maitland is widely recognised as one of Australia’s foremost crime fiction writers and has been nominated by The Australian as one of the top five crime writers in the world. Barry, a well-known local, has written 11 critically acclaimed titles and is the award winning author of the popular Brock and Kolla series of crime mystery novels set in London.
The new Brock and Kolla mystery begins with the brutal murder of an American tourist senselessly attacked after visiting the Chelsea Flower Show in London. DI Kathy Kolla suspects there is more to the case than first appears. When another occupant of the palatial Chelsea Mansions is murdered hot on the heels of the first - but this time a Russian oligarch - everybody wants to get involved.
Barry teams up with Michael Robotham, who writes his own brand of crime thriller, to talk about ‘who dunnit’ and the challenges of writing a good crime. Robotham, whose latest title, The Wreckage, has been described as one of the best psychological thrillers to come out of the chaos of Iraq, is a critically acclaimed award winner himself.
“This will be a compelling event,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Two writers who are recognised as masters in their fields will discuss the exciting new Chelsea Mansions and provide an insight into why we are fascinated with crime.”
Chelsea Mansions will be launched by Barry Maitland in conversation with Michael Robotham for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme
Thursday 11 August 2011
6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Maitland Regional Art Gallery
$15 includes wine and canapes
Tickets can be purchased online or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Former journalist goes Beyond Fear
Former Prime TV news and sports journalist, Janette Hankinson, will talk about her novel, Beyond Fear, for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Tuesday 9 August. The subject of a fierce bidding war between publishing houses, Beyond Fear has been described as an atmospheric and adrenaline-pumping thriller.Under the pen name of Jaye Ford, Janette has realised her dream of becoming an author. Set in the rolling hills of the Dungog district, Beyond Fear is based on a real story Janette read about in a newspaper many years ago, involving the brutal assault yet extraordinary survival of a girl near where she grew up.
Like the girl, the book’s heroine, Jodie Cramer, survives such an assault but her past is savagely revisited when two men knock at the door of the seemingly idyllic retreat where Jodie and three friends are having a girl’s weekend away.
Publisher Random House is backing Beyond Fear with a strong marketing campaign, pitching the book as a ‘spine-tingling thriller from an amazing new Australian talent’.
Janette began her working life as a radio news journalist, working in news and sport in print, radio and TV. In 1988 she hosted Sport Report on SBS becoming the first woman to host a live national sports show in Australia. The arrival of children hastened a move to Newcastle and eventually to fronting the evening news on Prime TV.
She later moved on to her own public relations business, but always harboured the ambition of becoming a published author. Jaye says ‘I’ve always loved a good story, one of the reasons I became a journalist, and for as long as I can remember, I’ve been making up stories in my head and thinking about writing a book. It took until I was forty to realise that if I didn’t get off my butt I’d be on my deathbed wishing I’d done something about it.’
Jaye Ford will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Garden Table Café
Heritage Gardens Nursery East Maitland
Tuesday August 9
10.00 am - 11.30 am
$15 includes morning tea
Tickets can be purchased online or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Being loud@the Library reaps rewards
Getting loud at the library has reaped rewards for local musicians at the ACTiv8 Battle of the Bands.
No fewer than four of the six competing bands and three of the five acoustic acts had previously performed at VOCAL, a programme initiated by Maitland City Library.
Providing young people the opportunity to perform their music live in an all-ages environment, VOCAL targets teen musicians and performers.
‘VOCAL is an innovative programme that fosters young people’s creativity, self-expression and self-esteem through live performance in the library,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
Payroll, a VOCAL stalwart, was winner of the band competition with another regular, City Lies, being voted the people’s choice winner. Two hundred and seventy high school students attended the Battle of the Bands competition with organisers of the event full of praise for the young people attending, commenting on the ‘exceptional pool of talent’ on display. The Maitland City Library staff who organise VOCAL can only concur with these sentiments.
‘We are very excited about the success of Payroll and City Lies in the Battle of the Bands, said Keryl. ‘The talent on display at VOCAL is inspiring, and we encourage teenage performers to participate.’
The date for the next VOCAL event is rapidly approaching. Scheduled for Friday 29 July at East Maitland Library, this is a great opportunity to see and hear some of the fantastic talent seen at the ACTiv8 Battle of the Bands. Payroll, City Lies and Ironbark from the band competition will be playing, as will Katelyn Blackburn from the acoustic section. They’ll be appearing alongside Daniel James (guitarist), Liz O’Brien and Jake Kime (acoustic rock and pop) and James Osborn (soft rock).
To register your interest in the Maitland City Library VOCAL programme, or for more information, contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952.
VOCAL
East Maitland Library
3 Garnett Road Greenhills
Friday 29 July 2011
5.30 pm to 9.00 pm
Underbelly author gives the lowdown on Razor
Get the low down on the latest Underbelly series and the seedy side of Sydney’s past from author, Larry Writer, when he comes to town for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Wednesday 20 July.
Season 4 of the hugely popular Underbelly series is based on Writer’s book, Razor, a chilling account of Sydney’s notorious crime figures, Tilly Devine and Kate Leigh, and the razor gangs that operated in the city after World War I.
Writer has a keen eye for documenting the life of unique and idiosyncratic characters. His current best seller, Bumper: The Life and Times of Frank ‘Bumper’ Farrell, candidly investigates a policeman legendary for his hard line tactics. The Garden of Evil explores the hunt for Sydney’s famous granny killer, whilst the unusual life and talent of Divinyls’ singer, Chrissie Amphlett, is the subject of Pleasure and Pain.
Writer has an impressive resume as a journalist and editor, working for Australian Consolidated Press for over a decade, including 3 years as ACP’s European Editor and London Bureau Chief. He also worked for Time Inc., writing for People magazine and Sports Illustrated. In recent years he has been a freelance writer for The Weekend Australian magazine, The Australian Financial Review, the Herald’s ‘Sydney’ magazine, The Bulletin, Madison and The Australian Women’s Weekly.
During this period he has also authored a number of top selling books, including Never Before, Never Again, the saga of the record-breaking St George rugby league teams of the 1950s and 60’s and First Blood, the story of the sea battle between HMAS Sydney and SMS Emden in 1914.
‘Larry Writer has wide experience as a journalist, biographer and researcher,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘As author of the story behind the latest Underbelly instalment, Razor, he is sure to appeal to lovers of true crime.’
Larry Writer will appear for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme
Wednesday 20 July 2011
Belmore Hotel, High Street Maitland
6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
$30.00 includes dinner
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Warm up the winter holidays
Warm up the winter holidays with Maitland City Library’s great Holiday Fun programme during July. From science experiments, storytellers and dance workshops, there is a range of activities at library branches to entertain and engage children during the school holidays.
Check out the frogs, lizards, turtles, bugs, spiders and other creatures that inhabit the wetlands environment, when the Wetlands on Wheels travelling show comes to Rutherford Library on Monday 11 July. This entertaining and educational show is great for kids aged 5-12 years.
Fizzics Education will transform Maitland Library into an interactive science lab on Wednesday 13 July with their fabulous Liquid Nitrogen Show. With fog breath and laser lights, flying gloves and banana hammers, this performance promises to be extremely cool and is designed for kids aged 7+ years.
Thornton Library will be spinning with Bunny Star’s Hula Hoop workshop on Thursday14 July. Bunny is a wonderful and very experienced hoop performer and educator and her Hula Hoop workshop offers a unique and fun way for children to connect with their sense of rhythm, strength, coordination and confidence. All children 5 years will enjoy this event.
Funky fun is also in store at East Maitland Library on Friday 15 July with HVT Studio of Performing Arts presenting a Hip Hop workshop for boys and girls. The smooth movers in attendance will learn some hip hop actions and combinations then put it all together to music by the end of the session. Children 8+ years will enjoy this event.
Bookings for all events are essential and can be made by phone on 4933 6952, online or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
Cheryl Kernot on life and politics
Cheryl Kernot is one of the National Trust’s 100 National Living Treasures. During a stellar political career she was leader of the Australian Democrats from 1993-1997 and a Labour Shadow Minister from 1998-2001.
She is currently the first director of Social Business at the Centre for Social Impact at the University of NSW and she is coming back to Maitland to appear on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Friday 17 June.
Cheryl grew up in Maitland, attending Grossmann High School - she is still patron of the School's Parents and Citizens Association, stating that "ex-students should try and give something back to their schools whenever possible". ‘Giving back’ to her community and country is very much a theme of Cheryl’s life.
After a career as a school teacher, her political career with the Australian Democrats began at the 1990 election when she was elected as a Senator for Queensland. She led the Australian Democrats from 1993-1997 playing a major parliamentary role in the introduction of Native Title. She moved to Labour in 1997 due to dissatisfaction with the way the Howard Government was running the country and feeling that her position leading a minor party in the Senate meant she had a limited capacity to help minimise the impact. As a Labour Shadow Minister from 1998-2001 her political portfolios included Indigenous Affairs, Treasury, Employment, and Women’s Policy.
Social justice has been a prevailing policy interest. After leaving politics Cheryl spent six years working in the UK as Programme Director at the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurs at Oxford University and as the Director of Learning at the School for Social Entrepreneurs in London. Her role at the University of NSW expands on this work. Her most recent publication Australian Stories of Social Enterprise outlines the case for social entrepreneurs.
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Cheryl Kernot will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Friday 17 June
6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
$15.00 includes wine and canapes
Knitters can contribute to warming the world this winter by joining with the Friends of Maitland City Library to contribute to the Wrap With Love initiative.
The Wrap With Love project started almost 20 years ago with the open hearted mission of healing as many people as possible around the world by giving them a blanket to ward off the cold. Over 250,000 wraps have been sent to people in over 75 countries, including Australia.
Group meets each fortnight at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries.
Maitland Library 10.00 am - 12.00 pm every fortnight from Tuesday 24 May
East Maitland Library 2.00 pm - 4.00 pm every fortnight from Wednesday 25 May
If you can't make it, donation of 8 ply yarn and size 8 knitting needles are appreciated.
Shininga light on the dark corners of pop culture
A musician described as counterculture and iconoclastic, Dave Graney has never been one for the mainstream.
Appearing for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme, the ARIA-award winning Graney will shine a light on the dark corners of pop culture through the lens of his unorthodox memoir, 1001 Australian Nights.
Graney’s grungy mix of rock and blues was always going to make prolonged commercial success difficult. His remarkable longevity in the music scene is testament to his singular performance skills. Dave says that: ‘people probably don’t think of me as a songwriter…and in a way that’s been the way I present myself. I’ve always been interested in being a performer, not just being a writer … I think you’ve got to be one or the other.’
‘Graney is interesting and talented’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘He brings a unique perspective to the Australian music scene – one that comes from outside the mainstream.’
His first band, The Moodists, formed at the height of the post punk explosion in 1980, part of a movement which included The Birthday Party and The Go-Betweens. This creative and experiential mixing pot was filtered by Dave’s working class, small town, South Australian background. ‘I'm from a different background with a different way about me and coming from that post punk scene gave me a different language.’
1001 Australian Nights is Graney’s first book, loosely chronicling his life's travels from small town beginnings in Mt Gambier to his arrival as one of the Australia’s most inimitable rock performers. Telling his tale through stories and streams of consciousness, interspersed with flashes of surreal poetry, it’s a book described by Nick Cave as ‘Funny, wise, narcissistic, deluded and anarchic.’
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Dave Graney will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Monday 30 May
6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
$15.00 includes wine and canapes
National Simultaneous Storytime at Maitland
On Wednesday 25 May beginning at 11.00am Maitland City Library will join libraries, schools and other community centres from Broome to Hobart, reading the picture book Feathers for Phoebe to more than a 800,000 Australian children.
Now in its 11th successful year, National Simultaneous Storytime 2011 aims to celebrate and acknowledge the vital work being done in libraries, schools and communities around Australia to develop young people’s literacy and numeracy skills.
‘This event has been organised by the Australian Library and Information Association to promote the value of reading and literacy, the importance of Australia’s book industry and the role of libraries’’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
The 2011 National Simultaneous Storytime book is Feathers for Phoebe by Rod Clement, a wonderfully illustrated Australian tale about self-esteem, self-acceptance and learning that appearances aren't everything.
Phoebe is small, grey, and ordinary - very ordinary. "I want to get noticed!" she declares. Zelda is glamorous, talented and famous - and she runs the most popular beauty salon in the forest. And she's only too happy to help Phoebe become the bird she's always wanted to be.
First a little feather headdress, then wing extensions - until Phoebe is transformed into a Diva. She looks gorgeous - but when she tries to take off, surprises are in store for them both!
Local schools and pre-schools have been invited to attend the sessions which are also open to any children to attend from the general community.
For information about National Simultaneous Storytime at Maitland City Library branches contact Maitland Library on 4933 6952, East Maitland Library on 4933 7122, Rutherford Library on 4932 8730 and Thornton Library on 4964 4468.
Libraries connect people to ideas
In May every year, libraries and information services throughout Australia celebrate Library and Information Week and highlight the wonderful contributions made by libraries and information services to Australian communities. This year Maitland City Library has a range of events scheduled 23-28 May, supporting literacy, reading, creative expression and social interaction.
‘Libraries connect people to ideas,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘Library and Information Week celebrates the library as a place to access information, communicate, educate, entertain and inform’
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes? Maitland Living Library offers the opportunity to broaden horizons through speaking with a Living Book at Maitland Library on Tuesday 24 May.
‘The Living Library is a unique concept that challenges beliefs and opens minds”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘There is no paperbound cover, no glossy pictures, no chapters, no writing or reading of any kind. The book itself is a living, breathing person – a Living Book.’
On Wednesday 25 May beginning at 11.00am Maitland City Library will join libraries, schools and other community centres from Broome to Hobart, reading the picture book Feathers for Phoebe to more than 800,000 children across Australia.
Teens will get the chance to turn up the volume at the latest VOCAL event on Friday 27 May. Kids can nominate themselves to perform or just come along, enjoy and support the acts.
Book lovers hunting for bargains will have a great day at the Friends of Maitland City Library annual book sale on Saturday 28 May.
Knitters can contribute to warming the world this winter by joining with the Friends of Maitland City Library to contribute to the Wrap with Love initiative. Anyone with a few hours to spare and a little knowledge of knitting may come together with others for a chat and quality knitting time at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries on Tuesday 24 May and Wednesday 25 May.
I invite you (or your delegate) to launch the Harry Boyle and Andrew Burg Memorial Collections at Maitland Branch Library on Saturday 28 May 2011.
The tireless work of well-known Maitland identities, Harry Boyle and Andrew Burg, will be honoured in a launch merging their legacy into the Maitland City Library local studies collection. The launch, to be held at Maitland Library on Saturday 28 May celebrates the contributions of Harry Boyle and Andrew Burg to the documentation and preservation of our local history and heritage.
For more information on Library and Information Week events, contact Maitland City Library on phone 4933 6952.
Treasures for book lovers and bargain hunters
Book lovers and bargain hunters can indulge their passion at the Friends of Maitland City Library annual book sale on Saturday 28 May from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm at the Maitland Town Hall.
“It will be a book lover’s paradise’, said Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson, Wendy White. ‘There is a wide selection of books, from fiction to non-fiction, paperback to hardback. People can pick and choose their favourites to take home’.
Each year the Library sorts through its collections and removes redundant stock and offers them at bargain prices. The Library Book Sale is always a huge hit with members of the community, and it offers great value for money. Prices range from 50c to $2, and library bags can be purchased and filled for $10.
Information on the book sale may be obtained by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Knitters Come Together
Knitters can contribute to warming the world this winter by joining with the Friends of Maitland City Library to contribute to the Wrap with Love initiative. Anyone with a few hours to spare and a little knowledge of knitting may come together with others for a chat and quality knitting time at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries.
‘The aim of coming together to knit is to make blankets, which are shipped to those who need them nationally and internationally,’ said project coordinator, Julie Triggs. ‘This is a great opportunity to help others in an enjoyable, practical way.’
The Wrap with Love project started almost 20 years ago with the open hearted mission of helping as many people as possible around the world by giving them a blanket to ward off the cold. Beautiful handmade wraps have been lovingly crafted by volunteers throughout Australia and in the past years more than 252,300 wraps have been sent to people in over 75 countries, including Australia.
Commencing in late May, an informal group will meet each fortnight at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries to knit up a veritable storm! Times include:
Maitland Library 10.00 am – 12.00 pm every fortnight from Tuesday 24 May
East Maitland Library 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm every fortnight from Wednesday 25 May
Contact project coordinator, Julie Triggs on phone 4933 8788 to express an interest in joining the group or for further information. Donations of 8 ply yarn and size 8 (old size) needles are also appreciated.
Law Week Debate Tournament
High schools throughout Maitland and the Lower Hunter have been invited to compete for prize money in the annual Maitland City Library Law Week Debate tournament.
The Law Week debate is a highlight in the Maitland City Library calendar of events and is a key component in the Library’s strategy for local high school students. The opportunity to debate a topic of current legal interest is a great opportunity to connect teens with legal information and an understanding of their legal rights and responsibilities.
Maitland City Library received the Centre of Excellence Award from the State Library of New South Wales’ Legal Information Access Centre for its comprehensive Law Week programme 2 years in a row. The Award recognised innovative and creative achievement in promoting a legal information service at the local level, and was one of only 7 awards presented at the prestigious Law and Justice Foundation Awards. The Library also won the NSW Law Week Community Service Award, a prestigious award only given to three organisations or individuals each year.
The debate, which is sponsored by the Friends of Maitland City Library, offers prize money to the winning school, as well as the coveted perpetual trophy. The 2011 Maitland City Library Law Week Debate Tournament Grand Final will be held Monday 16 May at Council Chambers from 10.30 am
Strategy focuses on city-wide vision
The first step towards a new vision for accessing the City’s local history and heritage has been made with the publication of the Maitland Local Studies Strategy online.
The Maitland Local Studies Strategy was developed as a result of a city-wide strategic review undertaken by Maitland City Library, which highlighted the importance of fostering management of Maitland’s local history and heritage resources.
The strategy sustains recognition of Maitland’s history and cultural heritage through promotion of networks, development of standards, support of local heritage organisation and promotion of heritage education. It addresses issues such as access, preservation and disaster management, and sets a secure foundation for the care and growth of the City’s documentary resources in the future.
Access to a report outlining strategy development and outcomes is now available from the Maitland City library website at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/Library/localstudies/Strategy
‘Availability of the report online will strengthen access to information about the City’s historical records. As the Maitland Local Studies Strategy is implemented, an electronic gateway to resources will be established’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
‘It seeks to develop and support a community network of agencies, groups and individuals interested and involved in the City’s heritage’, she added.
The Maitland Local Studies Strategy recently received an award under the 2011 NSW National Trust Awards, recognised for the high standard of strategic planning for the City’s documentary resources.
Walk the mean streets with some of Australia’s best female crime writers, when they reveal the dark art of successful crime novels. Malla Nunn and Pam Newton, two authors in the vanguard of the new wave of Australian crime writing, will appear for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Tuesday 17 May.
‘A rare treat is in store for lovers of crime fiction,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘Malla Nunn and Pam Newton will engage in a compelling conversation about our fascination with crime’.
Malla Nunn grew up in Swaziland before moving with her parents to Perth. Her books though are set in 1950’s South Africa, exploring the crippling racial segregation laws that forced her parents out of the country. Her writing explores the unlit spaces of apartheid era South Africa through a crime lens.
Her debut novel, A Beautiful Place to Die, was published in 2008 to much critical acclaim, was shortlisted for a prestigious Edgar Award by the Mystery Writers of America and won the 2009 Sisters in Crime Davitt Award for Best Adult Crime Novel by an Australian female author. Her second book, Let the Dead Lie, was published in April 2010.
Malla has also written and directed a range of short films and corporate videos. Her films have won numerous awards and have been shown at international film festivals from Zanzibar to New York
Pam Newton was a police officer for 13 years, with a reputation for being a smart cop who worked hard. By her own admission, she ‘became burnt out by the unrelenting nature of crime. Now, as a novelist, she had no desire to glamorise criminals and indeed in an era of Underbelly franchises, states that “they are not nice people - they are not interesting people”. She writes instead about the impact and grief caused. Though crime can be banal, petty or even accidental, its repercussions are forever.
Pam's first novel The Old School has been the subject of a bidding war between five publishing houses and is shortlisted in the 2011 Australian Independent Booksellers' Awards. Nhu `Ned’ Kelly a young, female, half-Vietnamese detective is the central character of a novel set in Sydney against a background of buried secrets, police corruption and issues like the Vietnam war and immigration.
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Malla Nunn and Pam Newton will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Readers Café
East Maitland Library
6.00pm – 8.00pm
$15.00 includes wine and canapés
Tuesday 17 May
Predicting the Future
Predicting the future is a dangerous game — the future is never a straight line from the present. Unexpected innovations and events will conspire to trip up the best-laid plans — but it’s still better than not thinking about the future at all.
World class futurist Richard Watson will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Thursday 14 April. Watson advises governments, corporations and non-profit organisations on emerging social and economic trends. His client base ranges from PricewaterhouseCoopers, Virgin, Toyota and McDonald’s to Westfield, Coca-Cola, the Department of Education, St George Bank and the State Library of NSW.
Watson’s book, Future Files: 5 Trends for the Next 50 Years, has been published in twelve editions worldwide. He is currently halfway through a new book investigating the impact of technology on thinking.
His website What’s Next? (nowandnext.com) documents new ideas, innovations and offers a quarterly report on global trends. This report ranges from predicting the outcomes of helicopter parenting, Wikileaks, the rise of China and the future of books, to name a few.
“Richard Watson is an engaging and provocative speaker,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “He is a well-respected futurist who has some insightful predictions about how the world might change in the next half century.”
Comedy at it's best - Jonathan Biggins
Jonathan Biggins, one of Australia’s most versatile and talented entertainers, brings his special brand of humour to town when he appears for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Friday 25 March.
“With a career that spans page, stage and screen, Biggins is a multi-talented powerhouse who is best known for his comedic performances,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Political and social satire are his speciality – he is the founder of the famous Sydney Wharf Revue, where, along with Phillip Scott and Drew Forsyth, he has entertained audiences for over 16 years with an intelligent and uproariously funny take on politicians and current affairs.”
A prolific writer, Biggins has written for journals and newspapers including Good Weekend Magazine, The Age, Australian Traveller and Wine Selector Magazine. Along with the enormously successful Wharf Revue productions, his writing collaborations include a libretto adaptation of the opera Orpheus in the Underworld for Opera Australia, and two stage musicals: Living in the 70's and The Republic of Myopia.
He has also written three books: As it Were, The 700 Habits of Highly Ineffective People and most recently, The 700 Habits of Highly Ineffective Parents.
A sought-after character actor who has appeared for all the major state theatre companies, highlights of Biggins’ career include playing Peter Sellers in Ying Tong and Henry Carr in Tom Stoppard's Travesties, both for the Sydney Theatre Company. For Opera Australia he played Koko in The Mikado; he toured Australia with Three Men and a Baby Grand, and his film and television work includes Thank God He Met Lizzie and City Homicide.
Jonathan is a product of Newcastle where his first theatre performance was a 1976 Hunter Valley Theatre Company production of Equus. He attended Newcastle Boys' High School in the mid-1970s where his crowning achievement was starring in the debating team which won the state finals. In a school better known for its prowess at maths and sports, he says that this event greatly improved his standing in the eyes of his peers and hinted at the career to come.
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Jonathan Biggins will appear for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Friday 25 March
6.00pm – 8.00pm
$15.00 per person includes wine & canapes
Seniors Week 2011
During Seniors Week 20-27 March 2011, Maitland City Library invites you to take up a new interest or try an exciting new activity.
Join in a COME & TRY session at your local library.
COME & TRY....
Reading by the River - Book Club
Share your reading experiences and discover new and exciting reading opportunities
| When: Monday | 21 March @ 10.30 am - 11.30 am | Where: Maitland Library |
Seniors @ Storytime
Relatives and friends are invited to share a storytime session with their pre-schoolers. Help develop the love of reading and imagination across the generations.
| When: Tuesday | 22 March @ 11.00 am | Where : Maitland Library |
| When: Wednesday | 23 March @ 11.00 am | Where: East Maitland Library |
| When: Wednesday | 23 March @ 10.30 am | Where: Thornton Library |
| When: Thursday | 24 March @ 10.30 am | Where: Rutherford Library |
Let's Get Connected
A relaxed, hands-on way for Seniors to learn computing basics in small groups and delivered by Library Staff
| When: Monday | 21 March @ 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm | Where: Maitland Library |
| When: Tuesday | 22 March @ 9.30 am - 10.30 am | Where: Rutherford Library |
| When: Wednesday | 23 March @ 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm | Where: Thornton Library |
| When: Thursday | 24 March @ 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm | Where: East Maitland Library |
| When: Friday | 25 March @ 10.30 am - 11.30 am | Where: Rutherford Library |
Celebrate Mind Body Spirit on International Women's Day
Mind Body Spirit will provide local women with experiences, ideas and products for overall health and wellbeing. Exciting exhibitors and free seminars will assist in the discovery of new ways to strengthen body, mind and spirit and offer a chance to unwind, to learn new healthy life skills and to be inspired by the achievements of local women.
Try yoga, find the latest herbal supplements, have a psychic reading, enjoy a mini massage, get advice on holistic health or enlist the services of a life coach, spiritual teacher or healer. Learn how to empower and clear your mind and explore your spiritual health through workshops, stalls and demonstrations.
Local authors Joan McCarthy and Maureen Smith the authors of Sixty Strong & Sexy will discuss their book, a celebration of life that encourages people both young and old to live a vibrant and healthy lifestyle. In writing the book they were privileged to share and record the inspiring life experiences of many of the women they have met on their life journey.
There will also be talks and demonstrations by a range of stallholders including a life coach, psychologist, psychic, Reiki practitioner, Satyananda yoga practitioner and a journey therapist.
This event is fully booked. Contact Maitland City Library on phone 4933 6952 for further information.
Richard Glover on Why Men Are Necessary
Join Richard Glover, ‘the indispensable chronicler of Australian family life’ for an evening of laughs when he presents his views on why men are necessary. Appearing for the Friends of Maitland City Library in the second of their annual lecture series, Glover will talk about his latest book, Why Men Are Necessary at Maitland Gaol on Saturday 5 March.
Published in 2010, Why Men Are Necessary is a collection of comic pieces as featured on ABC Radio’s Thank God Its Friday show, and has been described as ‘full-on, uncontrollable, laugh-till-you-weep’.
Glover’s weekly humour column has been published in the Sydney Morning Herald for over twenty years. He is the author of 12 books, including Desperate Husbands, In bed with Jocasta, The Dag's Dictionary, and The P-Plate Parent (co-written with Angela Webber). His book The Mud House - the story of building a mud-brick house in the middle of nowhere with no power tools - was published in 2009.
Richard has written a few stage shows, including Lonestar, a stage show about country music and A Christmas Story, which was performed at the Sydney Opera House, with Richard Wherrett directing. He was also one of the co-authors of Breast Wishes.
He's worked variously as an actor, newspaper journalist, waiter, lift driver and scriptwriter and his weekly column has appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald since the mid-'80s.
Richard has been shortlisted for the Walkley Awards three times - once for his radio interviews, and twice for his newspaper journalism.
Richard has been with 702 ABC Sydney since January 1996, before which he worked for 12 years as a print journalist at the Sydney Morning Herald, including stints as that paper's News Editor, Arts Editor and European Correspondent.
Tickets for Richard Glover can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Richard Glover will appear for the Friends of Maitland City Library at:
Maitland Gaol
6.00pm – 8.00pm
$15.00 (includes wine and canapés)
Saturday 5 March 2011
Don't let your memories die with you
The latest initiative by Maitland City Library has opened up a new perspective on the way local history is recorded and preserved.
Launched by Clr Steve Proctor in a well-attended event on Thursday 24 February at Maitland Gaol, the Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project captures a community response to living on the Hunter River. This exciting new project will preserve individual and community experiences of flooding in Maitland and examine how the river has influenced our local activities.
‘If you have a story about how the river has impacted on your life, I encourage you to contribute to this project by registering your details with Maitland City Library,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘We want to establish oral history as an important record of Maitland’s past.’
The Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project will from part of a collection to be developed by Maitland City Library, documenting the history and the management of floods in Maitland and how life on the Hunter River has shaped our past and is always present in discussions about the future.
What does the Hunter River mean to Maitland?
The Hunter River has been many things to the City of Maitland throughout its recorded history. Whilst the destruction of floods have been well recorded, the river has also been crucial in supporting the City that has grown and developed on its banks.
These twin faces will be examined when the first Maitland City Library Look Who’s Talking Local History event for 2011 is held on Thursday 24 February at Maitland Gaol.
Local flood historian, Peter Bogan, will draw upon his wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to life a dramatic and graphic re-telling of the traumatic days of February 1955 when devastating flood waters swept through Maitland catapulting the city into the national spotlight. The death and destruction that occurred during those days still exist in the community memory and have shaped our ideas about what the river means to Maitland.
Alongside this narrative, however, is another story - that of the Hunter River sustaining a strong local economy and contributing to the lifestyle that we recognise as being distinctly our own. From the first wharves built in Central Maitland to establish a shipping trade to the diverse farming activity that relies on its water, the Hunter River has been important to the life and growth of the City of Maitland.
Following the Washed Away presentation by Peter Bogan, the Maitland Hunter River Oral History project will be launched. This major project aims to capture the range of experiences of the people who have lived and worked with the Hunter River.
Washed Away heralds another year of innovative and interesting events in our Look Who’s Talking Local History programme,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘The Maitland Hunter River oral history Project represents an exciting and important new venture for Maitland City Library which will add significantly to the historical record of our City.’
Look Who’s Talking- Local History
Washed Away: the 1955 Maitland Flood
Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project Launch
Thursday 24 February 2011
6.00 pm- 8.30 pm
Maitland Gaol
$15.00 (includes wine and canapés)
Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project
The latest initiative by Maitland City Library will open up a new perspective on the way local history is recorded and preserved.
The Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project will capture a community response to living on the Hunter River. This new project aims to not only to preserve individual and community experiences of flooding in Maitland, but will examine how the river has influenced our local activities.
There is a rich vein of history to be found in people’s stories. The experiences of people who lived through floods, who lived or worked on the Hunter River, or who have absorbed the stories passed down from their family members will be preserved in their own words.
Oral History is an interesting and challenging way to bring the experiences of people into the historical record,’ City Librarian Keryl Collard said. ‘Projects such as the National Library of Australia’s Forgotten Australians are an example of how a major oral history can be compiled. We want to establish oral history as an important record of Maitland’s past.’
‘If you have a story about how the river has impacted on your life, I encourage you to contribute to this project by registering your details with Maitland City Library.’
The Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project will from part of a collection to be developed by Maitland City Library, documenting the history and the management of floods in Maitland and how life on the Hunter River has shaped our past and is always present in discussions about the future.
The project will be launched at Maitland Gaol on Thursday 24 February, following the Look Who’s Talking Local History presentation by well-respected flood historian, Peter Bogan. Information about the Maitland Hunter Rover Oral History project launch and Peter Bogan’s presentation is available by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Washed Away: disastrous events of Maitland's 1955 flood
The flood that inundated Maitland on 25 February 1955 was one of the most traumatic and disastrous in Maitland’s history. The first Look Who’s Talking Local History event for 2011 will explore some of the significant events of the 1955 disaster with well-known Maitland flood historian, Peter Bogan.
Hosted by Maitland City Library and Maitland Gaol on Thursday 24 February, Washed Away will give a unique insight the significant events of the 1955 disaster.
Peter Bogan’s status as an authority on Maitland floods is well established. Peter, who was born in Horseshoe Bend and has lived in Maitland all his life, received a Premier’s Award in recognition of his work in preserving and highlighting Maitland’s flood history. His popular Walk and Talk Flood Tour series, run by the Hunter-Central Rivers Catchment Management Authority (CMA), is a testament to his knowledge of Maitland’s watery history.
‘Peter Bogan is a local Living Treasure,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘His knowledge of floods and flooding in Maitland is extensive.’
An exciting new Maitland City Library initiative, the Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project, will be launched at this event. ‘The Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project aims to capture a community response to living on the Hunter River,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
‘The project will preserve individual and community experiences of flooding in the Maitland area, as well as establishing oral history as an important record of Maitland’s past.
’Washed Away: disastrous events of Maitland’s 1955 flood
Launch of Maitland Hunter River Oral History Project
Thursday 24 February 2011
Maitland Gaol
6.00pm – 8.00pm
$15.00 includes wine and canapés
Fiona McGregor - Distinctive author of Indelible Ink
Described as distinctive, innovative and fearless, Fiona McGregor is a true avant-garde performer. Appearing in the first Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme for 2011, this Loreto convent-educated daughter of a Federal Court judge is a critically acclaimed author who has worked as a performance artist and stripper.
Fiona McGregor has carved out a reputation as one of the most distinctive writers of her generation. Her first novel Au Pair was shortlisted for The Vogel Award; Suck My Toes won the Steele Rudd Award for best book of short stories; and she was one of the inaugural Sydney Morning Herald Best Young Novelists. Her novel Chemical Palace was shortlisted for the NSW Premier’s Awards and her short stories, essays and reviews have appeared in many publications including the Times Literary Supplement.Her latest book Indelible Ink, published in 2010, is set in contemporary Sydney and marks a notable departure in style. A more commercial offering, this family saga examines how change in one family can be a microcosm for change in society.
Fascinated with the concept of change, Fiona has worked across a range of disciplines including live art, video, installation and endurance performance. You Have the Body, a meditation on unlawful detention, was acclaimed in the four Australian cities in which it was presented, including being voted Show of the Year by theatre critic James Waites. A travel memoir Strange Museums, written from a trip to Poland as part of a performance duo, combines travel memoir, history and social.
‘Fiona McGregor is a compelling performance artist and writer’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘Her contemporary take on modern life is both challenging and sharp.’Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Fiona McGregor will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme at
Maddies of Bolwarra
6.00pm – 8.00pm
$15.00 includes wine and canapés
Tuesday 15 February
January Holiday Fun
Kids can get off the planet and explore the solar system, stars and constellations in a unique way through the spectacular Skyworks walk-in planetarium at Rutherford Library on Tuesday 11 January.
Make green slime, rat’s guts and spooky slushies in a workshop for Mad Scientists at Maitland Library on 6 January.
Presented by the Science Hunters, this is a real hands-on experience! If making masks is more your thing,
Tantrum Theatre will guide kids in creating fantasy masks at Thornton Library on 19 January.
The fantasy theme will continue with master cartoonist, Dave Hackett at East Maitland Library 19 January.
Cartoon Dave Hackett’s workshops are legendary, suitable for children of all learning standards and abilities to discover how to easily access and implement their own creativity.
The Library’s expert storytellers will also present some great stories throughout the summer holidays.
For further information or bookings, visit one of the Maitland City Library branches, phone 4933 6952
Scare up a good book!
Maitland City Library will join public libraries across Australia in celebrating everything that is scary and creepy in children’s literature for this year’s Scare Up A Good Book! Summer Reading Club.
This programme runs throughout the summer and encourages children to keep up their reading during the holidays. Summer reading helps students return to school in the New Year with greater reading fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
“The Summer Reading Club is a great example of a programme that improves literacy skills through a range of incentives and fun activities,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
“It not only promotes reading as a leisure activity, it also encourages children to develop the habit of reading and a lifelong interest in books.
”Children are encouraged to read ten books over the holiday period, with tattoos, stickers and finger puppets as incentives, as well as the chance to go in a major prize draw to win book vouchers, books and cinema passes generously donated by McDonalds Booksellers, Angus and Robertson and Reading Cinema.
Draft Maitland local Environmental plan on exhibit at Central Maitland and East Maitland Libraries
The Draft Maitland LEP 2011 will be publicly exhibited for a period of 5 weeks between Monday 15th November 2010 and Monday December 2010. This will provide residents, community groups, business owners, land owners or interested persons the opportunity to have their say on the proposed land use zones and provisions within the draft plan.
As part of the preparation of Draft Maitland LEP 2011, Council has also revised the Maitland Citywide Development Control Plan (DCP). The revised Draft Maitland Development Control Plan (DCP) 2011 will be exhibited to the Maitland community with the Draft Maitland LEP 2011.
The Draft Maitland LEP 2011 is Council's principal strategic planning document. It consists of a set of maps and a written document which describes a variety of land use guidelines and development standards for each piece of land in the Maitland Local Government Area.
The function of the LEP is to:
· Apply a land use zone to each piece of land in the Maitland area. An example is the R1 Residential Zone
· Provide a list of development activities that are allowed or not allowed in each land use zones. This is the Land Use Table.
· Provide specific land use and development restrictions in areas affected by special issues such as heritage or flooding
· Provide specific standards relating to detailed building controls such as building heights and floor space ratios
· Provide definitions of all the types of land uses, development activities and other planning terms that are included in the LEP
Is the book always better than the movie?
This informal, entertaining event will examine the relative merits and pitfalls of translating literature into film. Is the power of the original story enhanced or diminished by its adaptation? Does the film impact on the way we interpret the novel or see the characters, or is it the other way around? Does the filmmaker have a responsibility to the parent text?
Moderated by Frank Murri, President of the Newcastle Film Society, the panellists include:
Nash Edgerton - Actor, stunt performer, producer, writer, and director. Nash has directed a number of award-winning short films, music videos and commercials as well as appearing as a stunt performer in films such as The Matrix Trilogy, Start Wars II and III, where he was stunt double to Ewan Macgregor’s Obi Wan Kenobi.
Sandra Hall - Much admired film reviewer for the Sydney Morning Herald. Sandra has written a number of books on Australian television, including Supertoy and Turning on, Turning Off.
‘Movie lovers and readers alike will enjoy this special event’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
Panel discussion: The book is always better than the movie
Maitland Gaol
Wednesday 1 December 2010
6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
$10.00
Getting in the game - our sporting heroes and history
From the legendary Les Darcy to the Pumpkin Pickers in their prime, the limelight will be on our hometown sporting heroes on Thursday 2 December, when Maitland City Library looks at the history of sport in our community.
What sports shaped the life of the community? What identities brought the spotlight to bear on Maitland? What were some of the highlights of Maitland’s sporting history?
These questions will be explored through a ‘sports desk’ commentary, including news pieces, film footage, photographs and radio broadcasts in the latest Look Who’s Talking Local History event.
‘This event provides an overview of significant sporting events and sport identities throughout Maitland’s past,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
Getting in the game is a Look Who’s Talking Local History event coordinated by Maitland City Library, Maitland Gaol and Maitland City Council’s Heritage Officer.
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/Library/events/LWTHistory at any Maitland City Library branch or Maitland Gaol.
For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Event details include:
Getting in the Game
Look Who’s Talking Local History
2 December 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Maitland Gaol
$10.00 includes wine and canapés
Popular social analyst Hugh Mackay to visit Maitland
Popular writer, broadcaster, and social researcher Hugh Mackay will appear on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Friday 19 November.
Hugh Mackay is a psychologist recognised for his pioneering social research into the attitudes and behaviour of Australians. He has published 12 books, including 5 best sellers in the field of social analysis, and four novels.
He is also widely known as a newspaper columnist and commentator on radio and television.Hugh Mackay has made a life-long study of the attitudes, behaviours and trends in the Australian community.
As a psychologist, social researcher and writer, he’s been taking Australia’s collective pulse for over 25 years, publishing his findings in the quarterly research series the Mackay report.
”Hugh Mackay is regarded as an authority on social change,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “His work on trends, attitudes and values is widely read and respected. It is a privilege to host a writer of his reputation as part of the Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme.”
The focus of the evening’s discussion will be Hugh’s latest book, published in 2010, What Makes Us Tick, subtitled The Ten Desires that Drive Us.
Hugh’s talk promises to be illuminating, and as in all Look Who’s Talking’ events, the audience will be invited to ask questions so come prepared for a lively discussion!
A selection of Hugh’s published works will be available for sale – cash only – on the evening, and of course Hugh will be signing copies.
Hugh Mackay will appear for Maitland City Library at Mansfield on Friday 19 November 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm.
Steve Kilbey front-man of iconic Australian band The Church, will perform as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Thursday 4 November.
The Church, who swept to prominence in the 1980's, produced an impressive body of melodic, guitar driven tunes overlaid with thoughtful, poetic lyrics. For almost thirty years, they have crafted distinctive music that blends psychedelic pop and progressive rock. The band’s status in Australian music is underlined by their recent induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame, joining legends such as AC/DC, Nick Cave and Paul Kelly.
Steve Kilbey formed The Church in 1980 with Peter Koppes, Nick Ward and Marty Wilson-Piper, taking on the role of singer, bassist and main lyricist. The band gained a faithful following in the 1980s with hits such as Unguarded Moment and Almost With You, providing a fresh new alternative to Australian audiences. The quintessential Church song, Under the Milky Way, gained international success in the late 1980s and remains a moody, magical classic over 20 years later.
"Steve Kilbey is a prolific song writer,” said Keryl Collard, City Librarian. “His creative tally outside The Church includes 6 solo albums and numerous collaborative projects. He is also a music producer, painter and poet.”
Steve Kilbey is presented by Maitland City Library on Thursday 4 November. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any Maitland City Library branch. Event details include:
Steve Kilbey
Look Who’s Talking
4 November 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Maitland Regional Art Gallery
$10.00 includes wine and canapés
Bush poetry to launch Bitter and Twisted
Sassy, successful bush poet, Carol Heuchan, will kick off Maitland’s Bitter and Twisted Festival on Friday 5 November at the Bushrangers Bar in Largs.
A consummate performer and a top-selling author, Carol Heuchan’s success in bush poetry has marked a relatively recent career change. Up until five years ago Carol taught horse riding, competed intensively with her show horses, served on many panels and committees and judged throughout Australia and internationally.
Her first book, Horseplay, led her to the world of Bush Poetry and featured, of course, horse poems. She still excels at horse poetry, but her range is enormous, from quirky, contemporary, political, humorous, reflective, historical, moving ballads right through to sheer nonsense!
Three best-selling books, two award winning CDs and five Australian Bush Laureate awards later, she has been described as a great Ambassador for Bush Poetry, Australian traditions and culture. Recently, the ABC TV series, Bush Slam, featured Carol in its first episode at Cowra, where she was given just three days to capture the heart of the town in verse and then perform before the locals in a live poetry slam for a thumbs-up or a thumbs-down!
Budding bush poets will be given a chance at the mike following Carol’s performance.
Carol Heuchan is presented by Maitland City Library in partnership with the Maitland Visitors’ Information Centre on Friday 5 November. Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any Maitland City Library branch. Event details include:
Carol Heuchan
Look Who’s Talking
5 November 6.00 pm - 8.00 pm
Bushrangers Bar Largs
$25.00 includes boutique beer and burger
Marele Day- another great crime writer visiting Maitland
Award winning crime writer, Marele Day, is the latest author to visit Maitland as part of the popular Look Who’s Talking programme. Author of the Claudia Valentine series of crime novels, Marele Day has been recognised by a Ned Kelly lifetime achievement award by the Crime Writers’ Association of Australia. She will appear courtesy of Maitland City Library at the Readers Café on Monday 11 October.
The Claudia Valentine series has become a minor classic in Australian crime writing. Claudia Valentine, one of Australian crime’s strongest female lead characters, is a feisty, hard living private investigator living and working in Sydney.
A diverse author, her latest book is The Sea Bed, a novel of desire, duty and secrets centred on a Buddhist monk who leaves the safe predictability of his mountain monastery and ventures into the world to carry out a fellow monk's dying request. Other titles include the internationally acclaimed Lambs of God, a study of faith and religion in the modern world, and Mrs Cook: The Real and Imagined Life of the Captain’s Wife.
An experienced writing teacher who conducts creative writing course throughout Australia, she has written two non-fiction books for writers, Successful Promotion by Writers and How to Write Crime. Her work is studied as part of the current HSC syllabus.
Tickets can be purchased online at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library/events or at any of the Maitland City Library branches. For further information phone Maitland City Library on 49336952.
Help for your exams
Looking for a place to study or need help before your exams? Maitland City Library provides a wide range of student support guides, online resources and places to study.
Libraries , with study rooms, desks and free internet computers are open evenings and Saturday mornings. All your subject areas are covered with Hot Topics, Issues in Society, Top Notes, Excel Study Guides, Get Smart student notes, Leading Edge and No Fear Shakespeare. Why not listen to mini lectures on your iPod with PodClass?
Visit your Maitland City Library branch to take advantage of these helpful and free study resources. Wishing you all the best for your exams and future endeavours!
Wild holiday fun
Spring is here and Maitland City Library is abuzz with some beastly holiday fun.
Have you ever wondered why dogs behave the way they do? Maitland City Library’s first holiday event will supply all your answers. A qualified obedience trainer will explain the dos and dont's of dog behaviour at Thornton and East Maitland Libraries on 29 September.
Spiders, snails and mini-beasts of all types will be on show at Thornton Library on 30 September. Not for the squeamish, the Travel-Bugs workshop includes a hands-on mini-beast experience not to be forgotten!
Sambafrog workshops at Rutherford Library on 6 October will introduce kids to an array of musical instruments, dancing rhythms and movements. The workshops also include listening to music from different cultures as well as singing in foreign languages.
The Koko puppet show will delight young and old at Maitland Library on 7 October. Maitland City Library’s master puppeteers will tell exotic tales from the animal world using a traditional and still hugely popular form of storytelling.
The Bob Turner Wildlife show will be at East Maitland Library on 8 October, offering a superb display of live reptiles and other fauna, including frogs and toads.
For further details visit the Maitland City Library website at http://www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/Library/kids/October2010SchoolHolidays
Bookings for events are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or by visiting our website
What men want - Bettina Arndt's view
One of Australia's first sex therapists, Bettina Arndt, will appear on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Tuesday 28 September. Bettina Arndt spent her early career talking about sex on television and radio, becoming a leading social commentator through her writing and work on government advisory committees.
Arndt has followed up her international success with the bestselling Sex Diaries, with a new book about why sex matters so much to men. What Men Want is all about why sex matters so much to men and is based on the diaries of over 150 men. The result is a collection of honest, confronting and sometimes, hilarious, stories about male sexuality.
Arndt trained as a clinical psychologist specialising in sexual therapy and first came to prominence in the 1970s by editing Forum, an Australian adult sex education magazine, which led to frequent radio and television appearances. She hosted her own radio program on 2GB as well as writing about broader social issues for newspapers including The Australian and The Sydney Morning Herald.
Moving to the States in the late 80’s Bettina spent five years in New York writing a syndicated newspaper column as well as having two books published featuring collections of her writings, Private Lives and All About Us.
Since returning to Australia Bettina has served on a number of committees advising the Australian government on policy matters, including the Family Law Pathways Advisory Group, the National Advisory Committee on Ageing, the Assisted Reproductive Technologies Review Team and the Child Support Review Reference Group.
She is currently a full time feature writer for The Australian and a regular guest on ABC radio around the country.
Bettina Arndt will appear on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme.
Walk in someone else's shoes
Have you ever wondered how people smile after something terrible has happened or what it is like to survive depression or aids?
There are currently over 30 living books in the Maitland Living Library catalogue and the following books are available ‘for loan’ at Maitland Library on Thursday 16 September:
Young & Trans Young & Trans successfully challenged convention and stereotypes to become a confident young man and father. An intimate account of a life lived in the wrong body.
Overcoming Depression Losing a child and overcoming depression are just a few of the life experiences that have transformed this Living Book into an assertive, confident woman in her 70s who has harnessed the power of heartfelt communication and self esteem.
Thin Blue Line Being a police officer carries with it stories and experiences fit for a 5 volume series! The Thin Blue Line offers a personal account of the good, the bad and the ugly side of law enforcement in Maitland over the last 25 years.
Anyone can This is a story about an alcoholic father, living with agoraphobia, dealing with a daughter’s teenage pregnancy, accepting a brothers homosexuality and death from AIDS.
HIV Survivor As a long-term survivor of the human immunodeficiency virus HIV, Survivor generously offers a rare and poignant insight into living with the virus, losing loved ones and caring for a terminal partner.
Life’s Good Master pen craftsman, navy engineer, English football referee and publican! A Living Book with tales spanning 50 years and many continents.
Success at 63 Success at 63 proves it’s never too late. Be it university, living in a third world country, succeeding in business or dedication to community - fear and age is no barrier for this dynamic storyteller!
Suicide and cults A story of triumph over tragedy. After living under the doctrine of her husband’s cult and finding the courage to flee with her children, life was good for Suicide & Cults until her son returned to the cult years later and committed suicide.
Argentina & Canasta Leaving Argentina for a new life in Australia is easier said than done! Argentina & Canasta maintained the home connection by keeping her culture of dancing and canasta alive in Australia and working with other immigrants and refugees.
Getting out & getting on Getting Out & Getting On With It proves that single parent families living in poverty can still nurture inspirational leaders. Through strong family support, this story reminds us that lack of money is no barrier to the successful pursuit of dreams.
Maitland Living Library offers the opportunity to broaden horizons, to walk in someone else’s shoes merely through speaking with a Living Book.
“This is a unique concept that challenges beliefs and opens minds”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “There is no paperbound cover, no glossy pictures, no chapters, no writing or reading of any kind. The book itself is a living, breathing person – a Living Book.”
For information or Living Library bookings please contact Maitland Library on phone 49336952.
Future stars get VOCAL
Yes, you can be loud in the library! The volume will be turned up when the latest VOCAL concert blasts off 5.30pm – 8.00 pm at Maitland Library on Friday 17 September.
VOCAL is a new concept based on the library as performance place for teens”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “It offers young performers a chance to showcase their talents in a public venue, including music, rapping and performance poetry.”
It will also provide Maitland City Library with an opportunity to connect with teens,” Keryl said. “Libraries typically focus their events towards younger children, but we are keen to try new approaches that will appeal to teens. There is a great deal the Library can offer them.”
Young performers from local schools will take to the stage to strut their stuff, including song-writing, guitar playing, rap, performance poetry and more.
The last VOCAL event in July rocked Thornton Library, featuring everything from acoustic guitar solos and punk. Local teens are invited to register their interest in performing at VOCAL by contacting Library Programmes on 4934 9887.
Childrens Book Week at Maitland City Library.
It’s time again to rediscover the quality and diversity of Australian children’s authors and illustrators. Children’s Book Week 2010 will be celebrated at all the Maitland City Libraries from the 21st to the 27th of August.
Book Week is the longest running children's festival in Australia, enjoying its 65th birthday in 2010.
The Children’s Book Week Awards celebrate Australian children’s literature and its creators, and seek to engage the community with literature for young Australians. It’s an opportunity for librarians to spend a week celebrating books with local children by developinging activities, and telling stories relating to a theme to highlight the importance of reading.
The Book Week theme in 2010 is ‘Across the Story Bridge’. Sharing and enjoying stories is a wonderful way of building bridges between cultures, eras, ideas and experiences. The expert storytelling team of Maitland City Library will be visiting schools and libraries throughout Book Week, enthralling local children with an engaging selection of the best stories from the 2010 Children’s Book Awards shortlist.
Maitland City Library is also pleased to announce that during Book Week that the wonderful Debra Abela, author of the immensely popular Max Remy Superspy will be presenting at various Maitland City Library branches. Together with Australian soccer icon Johnny Warren, Deb also created the Jasper Zammit (Soccer Legend) series; Deb’s an engaging, informative and lively presenter who’s sure to leave students with a re-energised thirst for reading and writing.
The Book Week award winners are announced on Saturday 21st August. To begin our celebrations the renowned national touring company, Tony Bones Entertainment, will be presenting a stage adaptation of Schumann the Shoeman, one of the shortlisted titles. Presented by professional actors,this performance interprets Schumann as a full-length play, allowing students to discover the book in an entirely different way. Suitable for children from ages four to twelve the performance costs $5 per child.
Roger Rogerson tells tales of his controversial career
A NSW police detective once tipped to go all the way to the top, Rogerson’s career has been dogged by controversy. A friend of underworld figures such as Neddy Smith, Rogerson became well known in the 1980's for his alleged crimes and misdemeanours.Joining the police force in 1958 at the age of 17, Rogerson rose quickly through the ranks, eventually being promoted to Detective Sergeant.
He was presented with multiple awards and commendations for his work, but was dismissed from the force and gaoled for perverting the course of justice in 1990. He was gaoled again in 2006 for lying to the 1999 Police Integrity Commission.
Now Rogerson is trying to break with the past – he's served his time. In 2009, he published The Dark Side, an anecdotal reflection of his time in the police force, and embarked on an entertainment career based on his police activities. He states he has no regrets over his time in the force and continues to protest his innocence.
“Roger Rogerson is an unconventional speaker who is certain to polarise opinion”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “He has been the focus of recent publicity surrounding the popular Underbelly television series”.
Roger Rogerson will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme...book now
Library turns up the volume
Yes, you can be loud in the library! The volume will be turned up when the latest VOCAL concert blasts off 6.00pm – 8.00 pm at Thornton Library on Wednesday 28 July.
“VOCAL is a new concept based on the library as performance place for teens”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “It offers young performers a chance to showcase their talents in a public venue, including music, rapping and performance poetry."
“It will also provide Maitland City Library with an opportunity to connect with teens,” Keryl said. “Libraries typically focus their events towards younger children, but we are keen to try new approaches that will appeal to teens. There is a great deal the Library can offer them.
Young performers from local schools will take to the stage to strut their stuff, including song-writing, guitar playing, rap, performance poetry and more. Local teens are invited to register their interest in performing at VOCAL by contacting Library Programmes on 4934 9887.
VOCAL is a free, supervised event open to all ages. For more information contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952
Kid's holiday fun - ready, set, go!
Warm up the winter holidays with Maitland City Library's great Holiday Fun programme during July. From science experiments, storytellers, dance workshops and even dance parties, there is a range of activities at library branches to entertain and engage children during the school holidays.
Budding scientists will be enthralled by Tasty Science Experiments at Maitland Library on Wednesday 7 July. Kids can take part in hands-on experiments, investigate the Bernoulli Effect, learn how sherbet is made and then make liquid nitrogen ice-cream!
Expert strortyeller, Bronwyn Vaughan, will take kids on a magical journey through other worlds and cultures at Rutherford Library on Tuesday 13 July. The diversity of migrant cultures in the Australian community are brought to life through the ancient art of storytelling in Aditi and her Rickshaw. The Library's own expert storytellers will bring the Dreamtime alive with unique stories, craft activities and puppetry in celebration of Australia's indigenous culture throughout the school holidays.
Local indigenous group, Yarnteen will present a traditional dance workshop at East Maitland Library on Thursday 15 July. Under the guidance of two instructors, kids will learn how to dance to traditional instruments, have their face painted with ochre and will then present a performance at the end of the workshop.
Finally, and to send the holidays off with a flourish, the fabulous and funky Dancing Disco Diva will host a dance party at Thornton Library on Friday 16 July, featuring music, bubble/smoke machine, disco lights, games and prizes. Boys and girls from 5-12 years are invited to get along angd groove away the last hours of their holiday break
Walking in the shoes of her subjects - Jacqueline Kent
Join Jacqueline Kent, one of Australia’s foremost biographers, as she talks about what it’s like to walk around in the shoes of a subject. Appearing as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Wednesday 9 June, Jacqueline has twice won the prestigious Nita B. Kibble Award for Biography.
Her most recent work The Making of Julia Gillard profiles one of the key protagonists of the upcoming Federal election. Jacqueline argues that in a country where distrust of politicians is almost an article of faith, Deputy Prime Minister Gillard is a political celebrity. The book outlines Gillard’s Adelaide childhood, her time as a fiery student activist, her battles to get into Parliament and her relationships with the important men in her political life: Simon Crean, Kim Beazley, Mark Latham and Kevin Rudd.
“Jacqueline Kent is interested in women who refuse to conform to their stereotype”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Her take on the subjects of her books is both original and revealing.”
A writer of non-fiction and biography, fiction, general articles and literary journalism, Kent’s working background includes radio interviewing, print journalism, radio and TV scriptwriting, editing books, ghostwriting, teaching editing and creative writing, and arts administration. She has published two books of social history: Out of the Bakelite Box: The Heyday of Australian Radio (1983)and In the Half Light: Life as a Child in Australia 1900-1970 (1988).
Jacqueline Kent’s biography of Beatrice Davis, A Certain Style, won the 2002 National Biography Award and the Nita B. Kibble Award in 2008. An Exacting Heart, ’her biography of Hephzibah Menuhin, was shortlisted for ‘The Age’ Non-fiction Book of the Year Award, the Queensland Premier's Literary Award for non-fiction, the NSW Premier's Literary Award and the Walkley Award, and won the Nita B. Kibble Award in 2009. She is also the author of six books of fiction for young adults.
Jacqueline Kent will appear for Maitland City Library at:
River Royal Inn Morpeth
Wednesday 9 June 12.30pm - 2.00pm
$25.00 includeslunch
Bookings are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or emailing programmes@library.maitland.nsw.gov.au Jacqueline’s books will be available for sale and signing at the event.
Maitland City Library Law Week Debate Tournament
Maitland City Library’s 2010 Law Week debate tournament was a resounding success. Now in its fourth year the continued relevance of the tournament to local HSC students was underlined by the awarding of a grant from the NSW Law Society to assist in running this years’ tournament.
Attracting eight teams from seven local High Schools and featuring three rounds of debating, the tournament attracted 32 debaters engaging in a total of 7 debates. All the debates were assessed by professional adjudicators, allocating a points score for each debater and offering students insightful feedback.
The students debated legal questions framed in a manner that allowed discussion of the concepts as they impact on society as a whole. This is the real value of the tournament; getting local teenagers to consider the impact of laws and legislation on their local communities.
The final featured Merewether High and Hunter Valley Grammar schools debating whether violent video games should be banned. It was a close debate with Merewether being adjudged winners. They received the perpetual trophy and a $500 winner’s cheque. Trophies were also presented to the students adjudged the best debaters, being a dead heat between Brady Wagner from Maitland High School and Nicole Levy from All Saints College, St Mary’s Campus.
Writing skills to be rewarded - Write Now! Challenge
Entries for Write Now! in 2010 have closed and are now being judged. Watch this space to read about this year's winners. The 2010 Write Now presentation will take place at East Maitland Library on 25 August.
Maitland kids will be sharpening up their writing skills as they take on the Write Now! Challenge over the next couple of weeks. Entries are now open to the Write Now! competition – an exciting opportunity for infants and primary aged children in the Maitland region.
The aim of the award is to encourage literacy development, foster creativity and promote pride in achievement for children in the local area,” said Barbara Gow, Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson. “It will be presented for excellence in creative writing and will be open to K-6 students.”
Kids are invited to write on the theme of ‘Planet Earth: Home, School and Playground’ to be in the running for some great prizes. They can also get some help by attending a series of free writing workshops at Maitland City Library branches which will assist in the development of creative writing and presentation skills.
The award is administered by the Friends of Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland City Library and the University of Newcastle’s Faculty of Education and will be presented during Children’s Book Week in August. Entries close on 11 June
Information about the Write Now! writing challenge is available from all Maitland City Library branches, the Maitland City Library website at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library or by phoning 4933 6952.
Join astrologer Jessica Adams for a girls' night out
World renowned astrologer and best selling author, Jessica Adams, will appear on Friday 21 May for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme.
Jessica’s horoscopes appear in the international editions of Vogue and Cosmopolitan, as well as in the Sun-Herald’s Sunday Life. She has written a number of popular astrology books, including Astrology for Women,Handbag Horoscopes, Astrolove and the recently published 20/20 Vision, a guide to weaving astrology into everyday life and future planning. Jessica is not only a popular astrologer, but also the prolific and successful writer of contemporary fiction for women,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Her chick-lit style is both humorous and poignant.”
Jessica’s fiction includes Single White Email, Tom Dick and Debbie Harry and the top 20 UK bestsellers I'm A Believer and Cool For Cats.Her most recent fiction title, Summer Psychic, is an engrossing, funny read, with lots of twists and turns.
Jessica was born in London's working-class Brixton and was nine when the family moved to the sedate climes of Launceston in Tasmania. She lives concurrently in England and Australia. Jessica graduated from the University of Tasmania with a B.A. in Philosophy, and later attended the Australian Film Television and Radio School, graduating with a further B.A. in Screenwriting.
Jessica Adams will appear as a guest on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme Friday 21 May 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm at the Belmore Hotel. Entry is $10.00 per person, including champagne, strawberries and chocolate. Bookings are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or emailing programmes@library.maitland.nsw.gov.au. Jessica’s books will be available for sale and signing at the event.
Treasures for book lovers and bargain hunters
Book lovers and bargain hunters can indulge their passion at the Friends of Maitland City Library annual book sale this weekend. The sale will be held Saturday 15 May from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm at the Maitland Town Hall.
It will be a book lover’s paradise’, said Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson, Barbara Gow. ‘There is a wide selection of books, from fiction to non-fiction, paperback to hardback. People can pick and choose their favourites to take home’.
Each year the Library sorts through its collections and removes redundant stock and offers them at bargain prices. The Library Book Sale is always a huge hit with members of the community, and it offers great value for money. Prices range from 50c to $2, and library bags can be purchased and filled for $10.
Not only is there a larger selection of books than ever before, bargain hunters will also be able to enjoy a great coffee and a sausage sizzle which will be provided by Morpeth Public School.
Information on the book sale may be obtained by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Library turns up the volume
The volume will be turned up when the Vocal concert blasts off on Friday 30 April at East Maitland Library, with local legends POWERAGE,and featuring student performers from Hunter Valley Grammar School.
Vocal is a new concept based on the library as performance place for teens”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “It offers opportunities for young performers to showcase their talents, including music, rapping and performance poetry. We’re really excited to have POWERAGE, a young band from Hinton who have won international recognition, to headline the first VOCAL event.
After winning a talent competition in front of 15,000 fans at the Sydney Entertainment Centre, the Hinton four-piece took out the title of Australasian Best New Band in the internationally recognised Global Battle of the Bands tournament in London. POWERAGE will deliver their own brand of modern, high energy rock when they headline Vocal, the latest event from Maitland City Library.
Young performers from Hunter Valley Grammar School will also take to the stage to strut their stuff, including song-writing, soft rock and more from singer Sarah Dockhill, singer/guitarist Mathew LePage and singer/keyboardist Lena Latham-Canon.
Vocal will be hosted by Maitland City Library in partnership with Hunter Headspace to promote creative expression and self-esteem for local teens. The winner of a design competition to promote the Library’s latest collection of mental health resources will also be announced at the event.
For more information contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952.
The war within - a war vet's tale
Vietnam War Veteran, Don Tate, will provide an insight into his chilling and gutsy memoir, The War Within, when he appears at East Maitland Library on Wednesday 28 April. From a tough and impoverished childhood to the dark aftermath of fighting in one of Australia’s most unpopular wars, Don Tate tells a story of violence, depression and redemption with an original and raw voice.
Don Tate was born in working-class Brisbane where surviving was all about fighting. With a violent father who believed that manhood was all about the last fight you won, life was never going to be easy for Don Tate. At the age of nineteen, he volunteered for duty in the Vietnam War, intent on proving his worth as a man and escaping the burdens of the grinding poverty of a troubled family.
After surviving horrific war injuries and two years in a military hospital, most of which was spent in a full body cast, Tate struggled to find his place in a country which did not want to recognise his military service. It was only at rock bottom that Tate could come to terms with his past and face his demons.
One of Don Tate’s units- the 2nd D&E Platoon- had been ‘edited-out’ of all the official histories of the war, and was only formally acknowledged in a Press Release by The Hon Mike Kelly MP in May 2008 after years of vocal and bitter representations by the veterans concerned.
The War Within is stark realism at its best - a compelling and sometimes shocking search for manhood by an alienated man, in a world where the only war heroes are the Anzacs.
Don Tate will appear on as a guest on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme Wednesday 28 April, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm at East Maitland Library. This event includes a special screening of historic Vietnam War footage from Don’s perspective as a young infantryman in 1969. Entry is free and light refreshments will be available. Bookings are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or emailing programmes@library.maitland.nsw.gov.au
Get into the game at Maitland City Library
Get into the fun and games at Maitland City Library during the April school holidays. Kids of all ages will enjoy what’s on offer, whether its reading, writing, acting or listening.
‘The library is always a great place to be’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. ‘We have a range of fun activities that are sure to appeal to local kids, as well as some great holiday reading and viewing for all ages’.
Kids are invited to check out the latest in Wii gaming at Rutherford Library, and test out their gaming skills in front of the big screen. The Library, in conjunction with the Harvey Norman Rutherford computer and electrical stores, is offering free Wii gaming and Nintendo DSi throughout the holidays.
Join in the skipping and jumping with GYMSkoolat Thornton Library on 6 April, when the Hunter Sports Centre will get kids involved in a mix of traditional gymnastic skills along with activities that have elements of cheerleading, acrobatics and aerobics.
For the more relaxed, The Games Shop brings its touring show to East Maitland Library on 9 April, with a great selection of board and card games. Learn from the experts!
Entertainer Mic Conway shows what kids can dowithout television in his hilarious TV or not TV at Rutherford Library on 12 April. Kids will be encouraged to use their imagination through music, comedy, circus tricks, juggling, illusion, puppetry and tap dancing!
Budding writers will get the tools they need to produce quality creative pieces they can use at school or just for fun! Fresh young author, Alyssa Brugman will present a creative writing workshop on 15 April at East Maitland Library.
The innovative Monkey Baa Theatre for Young People will present a dynamic workshop including drama, games, improvisation and movement at Maitland Library on 16 April.
Bookings for events are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952.
Connecting with Seniors
Seniors are invited to explore the globe from the comfort of an armchair or get a glimpse of online life in one of the fantastic events at Maitland City Library during Seniors Week.
Get the lowdown on getting connected to the Internet in a free class for seniors at Maitland Library on Monday 22 MarchThis hour long session will cover computer basics, Internet exploration and getting connected with an email account.
Get an insight into the wonderful array of free library services and collections that are available to Maitland residents when a guided tour of East Maitland Library is offered on Thursday 25 March.This hour long session will cover collections of special interest to seniors, such as audio and large print books, as well as library programmes, such as Look Who’s Talking, Living Library and book clubs.
Travel to different places from the comfort of one of the Library’s armchairs on Friday 26 March. This special event will feature a selection of Living Books from Maitland’s Living Library sharing their experience of living in, or travelling to the four corners of the globe.
'Seniors are invited to take advantage of the free activities offered by the Library,’ said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. 'This is a great opportunity to meet other people, learn new skills and tap into the experience of others.’
All events are free. Bookings are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952.
Successful business woman, Shivani Gupta to talk in Maitland
Sought after executive coach, international speaker and author, Shivani Gupta, will appear on Tuesday 9 March for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme. Shivani is well-known in the Hunter, for her columns in the Newcastle Herald and her Newcastle-based business, Passions @ People.
A former corporate high-flyer, Shivani’s life changed during a sabbatical in Nepal nine years ago. "It was the first time in my life where I went, 'You know, I've been put on this planet to do something big and it is not to work in the corporate world'. She returned with a vision to empower, inspire and transform people's lives; to share the message that business success and personal fulfilment need not be mutually exclusive.
Since establishing her business Passion @ People in 2002, the Newcastle-based Shivani has worked with over 100 companies in Australia and overseas, specialising in the coaching of executives, small businesses and women.
In 2008, she hosted the top rating SBS series Risking it All, following the trials and tribulations of four new small businesses. Released to coincide with Risking It All, Shivani’s first book Passion@Workfollows her own real-life story as she built her successful and sustainable business from scratch, and reveals the many lessons she learned along the way.
Shivani Gupta is a successful business woman who is an advocate of a balanced lifestyle,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Come along and be inspired by someone who is truly passionate about their work and motivated by helping others.”
Shivani Gupta will appear on as a guest on Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme Tuesday 9 March, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm at Maddies of Bolwarra. Entry is $10.00 per person, including wine and canapés. Bookings are essential and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or emailing programmes@library.maitland.nsw.gov.au
Look Who's Talking now
Get ready to be inspired and entertained by the great line-up of authors in Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme during 2010. If you loved last year’s programme, listen up for the authors who will be coming to town this year.
Look Who’s Talking has brought a great range of authors to Maitland over the last 3 years, and 2010 is no different,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “From architecture to astrology, social trends to song-writing, biographies and the business world, our speakers will stimulate debate and discussion. We have some events for crime-lovers, movie-goers and a new series for those interested in local history.”
Popular social analyst, Hugh Mackay, will explore the desires that drive us in the context of his lifelong study of the attitudes and behaviour of Australians, and sought-after executive coach, Shivani Gupta, will provide an insight into personal and business success.
Professor Steffen Lehmann innovative Chair of Architectural Design at the University of Newcastle will look at the future of our built environments, whilst a new series on local history will put the limelight on Maitland’s past.
World-renowned astrologer and writer for Vogue and Cosmopolitan, Jessica Adams will talk about the art of astrology and authoring contemporary stories for women, whilst Jacqueline Kent, award-winning biography writer, will talk about what it’s like to walk around in the shoes of a subject.
Steve Kilbey, lead singer-songwriter and bass guitarist for iconic Australian band, The Church, will provide an insight into his achievements as producer, poet, writer, painter and solo artist since the heydays of the 80’s.
Roger Rogerson, a police detective whose career has been dogged by controversy, will find a ready audience for his tales of law and disorder, whilst crime favourite, Marele Day, will win more fans with her original and provocative take on crime.
Also appearing are former sports broadcaster Craig Hamilton, Vietnam War veteran, Don Tate and children’s authors, Alyssa Brugman and Pamela Freeman.
To finish the year, a panel of experts will discuss the medium of film as a precursor for the screening of the Fiction into film series during the hot summer nights of January 2011.
Bookings are essential for all Look Who’s Talking events and can be made by contacting any Maitland City Library branch. For further information on any Look Who’s Talking event, or to join a mailing list to receive event notification, contact the Library on phone 4933 6952.
Check out the full 2010 programme at our Look Who's Talking page
On 14 February Maitland City Library will join with other public libraries across Australia to share the love on the nation's Library Lovers' Day.
For many years, Australians have been known to prefer libraries, art galleries and museums for recreational and leisure activities. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that over 6 million people visit libraries at least once each year and that 25% of those people visit the library more than 10 times each year. Additionally, libraries are the second most frequently attended cultural venue, after cinemas.
"Library Lovers Day is a national event supported by the Australian Library and Information Association and Public Libraries Australia" said City Librarian , Keryl Collard. "It's a fun way of celebrating the enduring relationship between communities and their library."
At Maitland City Library, readers will be tempted to venture outside their comfort zone and embark on a mystery date with a book. Library lover readers will be encouraged to discover new authors by taking home one of the carefully selected and wrapped 'mystery books' available at any Maitland Library branch.
Its never too early to learn how to read
Our Baby Book Club will re-commence in February with weekly sessions at all Maitland City Library branches.
Studies have shown that babies as young as 0 - 2 years respond positively to stories and rhymes, and that early literacy development is an important building block for future success at school. Children whose parents read books to them when they are young often learn to speak, read and write more easily. Stories are great for encouraging a range of important skills such as language development, comprehension and counting.
The benefits of reading regularly to your baby are enormous, including increased comprehension and vocabulary development, as well an opportunity to incorporate an enjoyable activity into daily routines. The first two years of life are an important time for language development. By listening to nursery rhymes, songs poems and stories, babies begin to recognise words and language patterns.
The Baby Book Club aims to encourage and promote a positive attitude and desire for reading from an early age and empower parents with the skills to develop their children's literacy.
The Baby Book Club is run on a weekly basis at all Maitland branch libraries. Sessions are 30 minutes in length and include stories, nursery rhymes, songs and finger plays. The programme is designed to be enjoyed by babies from 0 -24 months, accompanied by a parent or carer.
Living Library at Australia day festival
Have you ever wondered what working in military intelligence is all about? Growing up during the Great Depression? What is it like to ‘come out’ to friends and family? Now is your chance. A Living Library is just like a regular library with one exception - in the Living Library the books are people!
Visitors to the Australia Day festival at Maitland Park on Tuesday 26 January will have the opportunity to borrow a book from the Maitland Living Library.
A Living Library offers people the opportunity to broaden their horizons and to challenge the assumptions they may have of groups in our community. The main characteristics of a Living Library are its simplicity and positive approach. The effect of a one-on-one conversation is profound. By offering Living Books from a wide variety of life experiences, readers have the opportunity of speaking one-on-one about a topic that interests them.
Living Books will be available for 20 minute one on one conversations between 11.00 am - 2.00 pm.
Living Books attending the Australia Day festival include:
An Australian Story (growing up in the Australian country)
Out and proud
HIV long term survivor
Same sex married couple
Anyone can
Living with one leg
Growing up in the Great Depression
Military Intelligence Man
Activist
Come along on the day or contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952 for further information.
Outdoor film fest
Read the book, now see the movie! Maitland City Library announces a summer film festival to be held on Friday evenings at Maitland Gaol throughout January.
Watch the stars under the stars from Friday 8 January and indulge your love of literature through the magic of movies. The film festival takes a literary approach, with all four featured films being successful adaptations of books.
The series includes something for everyone, commencing with the evergreen Neverending Story, a children’s classic that is still enthralling audiences more than 25 years after its release. An epic fantasy which darts from adventure to adventure, the central theme of Neverending Story is the power of the imagination where the hero’s life is increasingly intertwined with the plot of the novel he is reading.
The magical Whale Rider was a sensation on the international film circuit when it was released in 2003. This is a contemporary story of love, rejection and triumph, as a young Maori girl fights to fulfil a destiny her grandfather refuses to recognise. Whilst Whale Rider is definitely a crowd pleaser, it deals with a range of social and cultural issues that underpin the struggle between 12 year old Pai and her grandfather.
One of the most popular children’s books of all time is brought to life by acclaimed director Tim Burton in the film Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The story is about an eccentric chocolatier ,Willy Wonka (played by Johnny Depp), and Charlie, a good-hearted boy from a poor family who wins a guided tour of the legendary candy-making factory that no outsider has seen in 15 years.
The Shipping News is an adaptation of E. Annie Proulx’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, starring Kevin Spacey, Julianne Moore, Cate Blanchett and Judi Dench. Filmed on location in Newfoundland, the scenery is stark, vivid, cold and uninviting yet breathtakingly beautiful. A story of love, loss and rebirth, The Shipping News is an engrossing human drama.
Gates to Maitland Gaol will open at 6.00 pm and films will start at nightfall. Bring a picnic, kick back and let the images speak for themselves. Tickets $5, Families $20, Children under 5 free. For further information call Maitland Library 4933 6952. Screening dates and ratings include: Neverending Story (G) Friday 8 January Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (PG) Friday 22 January Whale Rider (PG) Friday 15 JanuaryThe Shipping News (M) Friday 29 January
Library opening hours to change in the new year
Opening hours at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries have changed in 2010, commencing Monday 4 January.
A review of Maitland City Library opening hours was undertaken last year, including an evaluation of existing opening hours and usage patterns, followed by a survey aimed at identifying community needs and expectations regarding library opening hours.
Usage patterns and survey responses strongly supported extended weekday opening at East Maitland Library, whilst declining usage of the Maitland Library, particularly in the evenings, supported earlier weekday closing.
The new opening hours provide a great opportunity for Maitland City Library to extend its service to the community”, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “People who have found it difficult to access East Maitland Library during business hours will now be able to take advantage of the services on offer.”
The following changes to library opening hours will be effective from 4 January 2010:
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | |
| Maitland | 9.00am-6.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-5.00pm | 9.00am-2.00pm |
East Maitland | 9.00am-6.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-7.00pm | 9.00am-5.00pm | 9.00am-2.00pm |
Opening hours at Rutherford and Thornton Libraries will remain unchanged.
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday | Saturday | |
| Rutherford | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.00am-1.00pm |
Thornton | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.30am-5.00pm | 9.00am-1.00pm |
Roll up for some holiday fun
Roll up, roll up for fun under the big top at Maitland City Library this summer. Activities with a circus theme are set to entertain and energise the kids during the holidays, including free workshops and performances by the exuberant Circus Avalon.
Juggling, diabolo, devil sticks, hula-hoops, uni-cycling and amazing acrobatics will be all the go when Circus Avalon hosts a workshop at Thornton Library on Tuesday 5 January. The tricks and traps will continue when the talented Circus Avalon perform at East Maitland Library on Thursday 7 January. As a bonus, all participants in the Circus Avalon workshop and performance will receive a free ticket to a Circus Avalon show in Newcastle 19-22 January.
A balloon twisting workshop with a touch of magic will have kids all tangled up at Rutherford Library on Wednesday 13 January and circus characters will come to life with artist Lyndal Delmarco at Maitland Library on Wednesday 20 January.
The Library’s expert storytellers will also be out and about, with great summer stories for the little ones. Contact the friendly Maitland City Library staff for further information, session times and bookings on phone 4933 6952.
Read on the wild side! Summer Reading Club at Maitland City Library
Children across Australia will be making tracks to their local library to be part of the national Summer Reading Club over the summer holidays. The programme, which has a theme of Read on the wild side is set to take off from 18 December, when Maitland City Library will join public libraries from Broome to Hobart to promote the enjoyment of reading as a leisure activity over the long summer break from school.
This programme runs throughout the summer and encourages children to keep up their reading during the holidays. Summer reading helps students return to school in the New Year with greater reading fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
The Summer Reading Club is a great example of a programme that improves literacy skills through a range of incentives and fun activities,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. It not only promotes reading as a leisure activity, it also encourages children to develop the habit of reading and a lifelong interest in books.”
Children can sign up for the Summer Reading Club at any Maitland City Library branch from Friday 18 December.
Contact the friendly Maitland City Library staff for further information, session times and bookings on phone 4933 6952.
Release of Where The Wild Things Are
Maitland City Library will celebrate the film release of the Maurice Sendak classic, Where the Wild Things Are,with readings of the book on Saturday 5 December at Reading Cinema Maitland.
Where the Wild Things Are won the Caldecott Medal as the most distinguished American picture book for children in its release year of 1963. The book has been immensely popular, selling over 19 million copies worldwide.
Where the Wild Things Are is the story of a young boy feeling angry, running away with his imagination, but in the end realising that he’s still loved and that he always needs his mum. Though it’s a picture book, stretching only to 388 words, Where the Wild Things Are has many layers. It’s been the object of psychological studies, animated films and even operas. Now it’s a live action film, directed by Spike Jonze.
The storytelling team from Maitland City Library will present readings of the book in conjunction with a live action puppet theatre from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm in the foyer of the cinema. There will be opportunities for children to make their own crowns, so they can also be crowned ‘king of all wild things’.
Contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952 for further information.
Life and Work of Professor Fred Hollows Exhibition at Maitland Library
Maitland City Library will host a touring exhibition that celebrates the life and work of the late Professor Fred Hollows from 27 November – 11 December 2009. The exhibition uses pictures and stories to outline the life and achievements of Fred Hollows and the continuing work of The Fred Hollows Foundation.
16 years after the passing of Professor Hollows, his widow Gabi Hollows hopes the exhibition will offer locals a chance to learn more about Fred’s dream of eradicating avoidable blindness and improving indigenous health.
The exhibition gives people the chance to learn more about Fred’s life and the work of The Foundation, which I think is extremely important given that he remains a very significant person in Australian history.”
Fred Hollows was a passionate ophthalmologist who became known for his work helping restore the eyesight of countless thousands of people in developing countries and his passionate plight to improve indigenous health here in Australia. In 1993 he lost his battle with cancer aged 63.
In 2008 The Fred Hollows Foundation restored the sight of 176, 472 people, provided eye care for over 1.3 million people, trained 5,217 eye health workers and supplied over $1.5 million worth of essential medical equipment.
The Foundation was named ‘Best Practice Not-For-Profit Organisation 2008’ by the Givewell Good Giving Guide.
Following its display at Maitland Library, the exhibition will continue to tour regional and metropolitan libraries in NSW throughout 2009/10.
Support The Fred Hollows Foundation by calling 1800 352 352 or logging onto www.hollows.org.au
Choirs bring spirit of Christmas
Local primary school choirs will bring the spirit of Christmas to Maitland City Library branches next week, when Nillo Infants School and East Maitland Public School will perform a selection of Christmas carols at Maitland and East Maitland Libraries.
Maitland City Library works closely with local schools and looks forward to this opportunity to provide a Christmas atmosphere in the library branches.
Maitland Library will host Nillo Infants School on Tuesday 8 December from 10.30 am as part of the monthly storytime programme.
East Maitland Library will play host to the choir of East Maitland Public School on Wednesday 9 December from 10.00 am as part of a special Christmas storytime.
For further information please call Maitland Library on 4933 6952.
New Lives New Australians : snapshots of Greta Migrant Camp 1945-1960 Exhibition at East Maitland Library
To mark 60 years of post-WW2 migration to the Hunter Valley, Maitland City Library in collaboration with the Newcastle/Hunter Ethnic Communities Council is hosting a photographic exhibition at East Maitland Library 22 November – 24 December. The New Lives New Australians travelling exhibition features photos documenting and detailing aspects of life at the Greta Migrant Camp between 1945 and 1960.
Greta Migrant Camp operated from 1949 until 1960 and was the first Australian home for thousands of post-war immigrants. It became the second largest of its kind in Australia and more than 100,000 people stayed there from countries including Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Serbia, Ukraine, Russia and Germany.
Migrants were offered financial assistance in the form of a passage to Australia and accommodation in Immigration camps and migrant hostels when they arrived. Many people in Displaced Persons Camps in Europe were encouraged to resettle in Australia after the war to help boost Australia’s population and workforce.
The exhibition is the culmination of a project by the Windt family who took over the Greta camp property in 1979. With the help of Newcastle Ethnic Communities Council, they have gathered more than 1000 photographs of former camp residents. The exhibition also covers Mayfield and Port Stephens migrant camps
With permission, members of the public who may have had connections to any of these camps are encouraged to bring photographs or written documents to East Maitland Library and staff will scan them to include them in the exhibition. This will help build the collection and retain a historical file for this period of European migration to Australia.
The exhibition will be formally opened on Friday 4 December at 11.30 am by the Mayor of Maitland Mayor, Councillor Peter Blackmore. Mr Alek Schulha, former journalist with the Newcastle Morning Herald and Olga McTackett (nee Kmetyk), Branch Librarian at East Maitland Library, were both born at Greta in the same month of the same year. They will provide a brief narrative of their family experience at the formal launch of the exhibition.
The exhibition is on display at East Maitland Library 22 November – 24 December. Please contact East Maitland Library on phone 4933 7122 to attend the launch of the exhibition on Friday 4 December 11.30 am.
Walkley Award-winning journalist, Malcolm Knox, coming to Maitland
The versatile journalist and author, Malcolm Knox, will appear as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Wednesday 2 December.
Knox’s versatility is evident in the positions he has held at The Sydney Morning Herald, ranging from chief cricket correspondent to literary editor. He covered the Sydney Olympic Games for the Herald and the 2000 US Presidential election as a Los Angeles-based correspondent. As literary editor, he broke the story of the fake Jordanian memoirist, Norma Khouri, which won him a Walkley Award (Investigative Journalism category) in 2004. He won another Walkley Award in 2007.
He has published 10 books including the novels Summerland, for which he was named as one of 2000’s Best Young Novelists and A Private Man, winner of a Ned Kelly Award and a finalist in seven other Australian and international prizes. More recently, his novel, Jamaica, was short listed for the 2008 Prime Minister's Literary Awards and the 2008 Colin Roderick Award.
His non-fiction book, Secrets of the Jury Room won an Alex Buzo prize for research and was serialised on ABC Radio. Other non-fiction works include Scattered, an investigation into Australia's Ice crisis and The Greatest, a celebration of Australian cricket from 1993 – 2008.
Malcolm has also worked as an editorial consultant for the publisher Pan Macmillan and is a board member of the Copyright Agency Limited.
“Malcolm Knox is an interesting and provocative writer,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “”From current affairs to cricket, his writing is both inspiring and witty.”
Malcolm Knox will appear at the River Royal Inn, Morpeth on Wednesday 2 December 12.30 pm – 2.00 pm. The cost of this event is $25.00 per person and includes lunch.
Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952. Malcolm Knox’s books will be available for sale and signing at the event, courtesy of Angus and Robertson.
An evening with Di Morrissey
Di Morrissey is one of the most successful writers Australia has ever produced, and with sixteen consecutive bestsellers to her name, she shows no sign of slowing down. Join this prodigious and popular author for cocktails and canapés on Friday 13 November as she discusses her latest release, The Silent Country, for Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme.
Di's first novel, Heart of the Dreaming became an instant best seller when it was published in 1991. This marked the beginning of a hugely successful writing career. Her sixteen novels to date have been best sellers with her seventeenth novel The Silent Country, released this month, destined to achieve the same status.
Di writes for and about Australians, exploring issues that affect us all and weaving these into her stories. She has a strong awareness of the issues confronting all Australians and covers such diverse themes as love of family, heritage, Australian identity, the environment, reconciliation and spirituality.
In The Silent Country, TV producer Veronica Anderson travels to the Northern Territory to retrace the journey of an expedition that had set out 50 years earlier to film the outback, but which mysteriously ended in tragedy. Few of the group are still alive and they are reluctant to talk about the intriguing events. It is through the help of local park ranger, Jamie McIntosh, that Veronica begins to piece together the puzzle and discover the answers – a process that breaks the silence and changes her life.
Di has had a varied career: training as a journalist with Australian Consolidated Press and becoming Women's Editor for The Daily Mail Group in London, before working as a creative copywriter for Ogilvy and Mather Advertising. She had her own television program in the United States on CBS and was a regular presenter on Network 10 Australia. In addition to radio broadcasting, she has written for TV, film and theatre.
Di Morrissey will be appearing at Monte Pio Court in Maitland on Friday 13 November 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm. The cost of this event is $30.00 per person and includes cocktails and canapés. Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952. Di Morrissey’s books will be available for sale and signing at the event, courtesy of McDonald’s Booksellers.
The business of being a bloke
Sam De Brito, well known blogger for the Sydney Morning Herald and Melbourne Age, will expound on the business of being a bloke when he appears on the popular Look Who’s Talking programme Friday 16 October.
Described as a writer of caustic strength and sarcastic wit, De Brito is the author of three books, including No Tattoos Before You're Thirty, an advice guide to the author's yet-to-be-born children, Building a Better Bloke, a humorous self-improvement guide drawing from his experiences and feedback from his blog, and The Lost Boys, a novel, about the horrors of life past age 35. A fourth book, No Sex with Your Ex, is scheduled for publication in November this year.
De Brito is not afraid to provoke in his popular blog, All Men Are Liars, where he discusses the complexities of being a man, including everything from gender issues to body image and depression to porn. Drawing on a lifetime of observation, as well as the responses he gets from readers, De Brito’s writing is modern, funny and self-deprecating. . In 2006, All Men Are Liars was voted best Australian and New Zealand blog in The Weblog Awards and runner up in the same competition in 2007.
Sam de Brito has spent more than a decade writing for newspapers, film and TV, including the high profile television cop-dramas, Water Rats, White Collar Blue and Stingers. He has also been a journalist for the Daily Telegraph and the US tabloid Star.
Sam De Brito will appear at Mansfield Function Centre, Maitland on Friday 16 October, 12.30 pm – 2.00 pm. Bookings for this event are essential and can be made by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952. Admission is $25.00 per person and includes lunch. Book now
First Friday Book Chat @ Thornton Library
Thornton Library's First Friday Tea and Book Chat provides an opportuntity to share your love of books with others, in a fun and friendly environment. Bring along a recently enjoyed read and have a lively informal discussion whilst enjoying a complimentary morning tea. The First Friday Tea and Book Chat will broaden and enrich your reading choices, so bring along that funny, quirky or wonderful title you would love the world to know about!. Feel free to drop in and join a First Friday Tea and Book Chat at Thornton Library on the first Friday of every month from 10.30- 11.30 am. We look forward to sharing the reading experience with you!
Read the books, watch the movies!
Visit your local library to choose from a wide range of stories and movies to borrow during the Fiction into Fillm Festival. Books, audio books, videos and DVDs for children, teens and adults. Read the story then watch it come to life on the screen. Enjoy the movie then read the story for added detail and description.
Maitland City Library has a wide range of books in paperback, hardcover and large print. You can also listen to books on CD or MP3 - in the car, around the home or on your iPod. Then watch the story come to life on DVD and come along to the Friday night films "Whale Rider", "Shipping News", "Charlie and Chocolate Factory" and "Neverending Story".
There is something for everyone to enjoy during the Fiction into Film Festival at Maitland City Library.
Festival in the Park
To celebrate Mental Health Week 2009, Samaritans, Hunter Area Health and Maitland City Library present Festival in the Park. Maitland Living Library will join with ACON to provide a diverse selection of Living Books. Kids can be entertained by our master storytellers. Come and enjoy the wide variety of treats on offer!
Saturday 10 October 2009, 10.00am- 2.00 pm at Green Hills Gardens .
Fantasy fun during the school holidays
A live performance of the fabulous children’s story, Nobody Owns the Moon, is one of the holiday highlights. Recently short listed for Picture Book of the Year, Nobody Owns the Moon will come to life as the award winning theatre company Tony Bones Entertainment performs it live on stage with original music, song, dance, thrilling drama, puppetry and comedy. For ages 3–10, this whimsical story about friendship and belonging is a must see performance that is sure to captivate young and old.Nobody Owns the Moon will be performed at East Maitland Library on Tuesday, 6 October 9.30 am – 10.30 am.
En Garde! Check out the free fencing demonstration by members of the University of Newcastle Fencing Club at Thornton Library on Friday, 9 October 9.30 am – 10.30 am.
Budding artists will enjoy a Manga drawing workshop at Rutherford Library on Tuesday 13 October 9.30 am – 12.00 pm. Ideal for ages 10 – 18
Get into wargaming when an expert from the Games Workshop will present a free talk on the hobby, demonstrate a range of Lord of the Rings fantasy figures and then launch into battle on Wednesday14 October 11.00 am – 1.00 pm.
Maitland Library’s Puppet Theatre will entertain the young and the young at heart with tales of witches, goblins, knights and wizards at Maitland Mall 12.30am – 1.00 pm each Thursday and Friday during the holidays.
Finally, what is a fantasy event without Harry Potter? Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets will be showing at East Maitland Library from 2.00 pm on Wednesday, 14 October.. There will be giveaways for everyone in costume and a prize for the best dressed.
Bookings for all events are essential and can be made by contacting Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952 or by email to programmes@maitland.nsw.gov.au.
See the entire October School Holiday programme here.
Books Alive comes to Maitland
Maitland City Library will play host to two of Australia’s up and coming contemporary writers as part of the national Books Alive campaign, a month-long celebration of books and readinng running throughout September.
The aim of the Books alive campaign is simple – to encourage all Australians to read more books,” said Sandra Yates, chair of Books Alive. “Books Alive 2009 is a perfect way to get Australians young and old reading. With the 50 Books You Can’t Put Down guide, readers can find a title that’s right for them and enjoy the talents of some of Australia’s best writers,” she added.
Throughout the month-long campaign, 1.2 million copies of the guide, 50 Books You Can’t Put Down, will be available through book retailers and libraries right across Australia, including Maitland City Library branches.
Toni Jordan is the author of Addition, a sassy romantic comedy with a quirky, headstrong protagonist. Described as irresistible, and though-provoking, Addition is about Grace, a young woman with obsessive-compulsive disorder who can tell you the number of bristles in her toothbrush and the number of paces to almost anywhere. Any deviation from her routine throws her into a panic yet Grace is also attractive, brainy, witty and strong-willed. Despite her buttoned-up personality traits she has a conveniently powerful libido and wisecracks her way out of many a tight spot. Join Toni for a literary lunch at the Readers Café, East Maitland Library on Monday 21 September.
Virginia Lloyd wrote The Young Widow’s Book of Home Improvement while living in New York, having won a green card in the annual lottery. A reluctant memoirist, Virginia initially entertained the idea of writing a fictionalised version of her story, but decided that the truth was dramatic enough. The Young Widow’s Book of Home Improvement is a powerful and gutsy story that explores the complexities of love, death and loss without sentimentality. This book provides some penetrating insights into our universal experiences of love and grief. Virginia Lloyd will appear at Café P’Chinos on Tuesday 22 September.
Books Alive is an Australian Government initiative developed throughout the Australia Council for the Arts and supported by the local book industry.
Event details include:
Toni Jordan Monday 21 September 1.00 pm – 2.30 pm
Readers Café East Maitland Library $25 per person (includes lunch)
Virginia Lloyd Tuesday 22 September 10.00 am – 11.30 am
Café P’Chinos Melbourne Street East Maitland $10 per person (includes morning tea)
Bookings for each of these exciting events are essential and can be made by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Exposed: Our Criminal Past
Discover the dark shadows of the Hunter’s criminal past in an event that is not to be missed. From the safety of the present, an expert panel will uncover the scandals and crimes that have shocked us over time. Exposed, a unique event presented by Maitland City Library and Maitland Gaol,promises to provide a unique look into crime through the eyes of crime writers and crime fighters.
Dr Ian Gollan, a prominent local identity and veterinarian, will lead a discussion that promises to range from crimes of the time to those of the murky past. Why do we, as a society, have such a strong fascination with crime and does crime mirror contemporary social issues? Has our exposure to crime changed our outlook? What power does the written word wield over our attitude to crime? These are some of the questions that our panel will seek to address.
Panel members include Sandra Lee (journalist and author of Beyond Bad: the Life and Crimes of Katherine Knight), Duncan McNab (former detective with the NSW police force) and Tony Tamplin (Media Liaison Officer for the Newcastle Police.
Sandra Lee is an Australian journalist and author with more than two decades experience in the daily newspaper and magazine publishing industry in Australia and the United States. She has worked as an assistant editor, foreign correspondent and columnist for The Daily Telegraph,columnist for The Sunday Telegraphand special features writer for Sunday magazine. Sandra is the author of three non-fiction books: the best-selling 18 Hours, The True Story of an SAS War Hero, Beyond Bad; The Life And Crimes Of Katherine Knight, Australia’s Hannibal and The Promise, An Iraqi Mother’s Desperate Flight to Freedom.
A former detective in the NSW police force, Duncan McNab moved into sleuthing for criminal defence cases and the corporate world, then worked as a producer/journalist for programs such as 4 Corners and Sunday and in the print media as well. Duncan is the author of TheUsual Suspect, a biography of notorious crime figure Abe Saffron, The Dodger, based on the life of ex-policeman Roger Rogerson, and Dead Man Running, an exposé of the world's most feared motorcycle gang: The Bandidos.
Senior Constable Tony Tamplin is the Media Liaison Officer for the Newcastle Police and is the public face of police information in the Hunter. A Newcastle boy, born and bred, Tony is known for his wit and has been in the Police Force for 31 years, almost all of it in Newcastle, having held the position of Media Liaison Officer for the past 25 years.
Exposed: Our Criminal Pastwill be held Thursday 10 September 6.00pm – 8.00 pm at the Maitland Gaol Auditorium. The event, which celebrates NSW History Week, is presented by Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland Gaol in the first of a new Look Who’s Talking History series.
Entry to the event is $10.00 per person and bookings can be made through phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952, Maitland Gaol on 4936 6482 or online at www.maitlandgaol.com.au/historyweek
Thrilling crime from a former paramedic
Katherine Howell used to be a paramedic and now she writes crime thrillers about people in that job. Howell uses her expertise as a former paramedic to combine the police procedural genre with adrenlaine-charged emergencies handled by ambulance crews.
'Using real life experiences in fiction gives the work that unmistakable ring of truth," says Katherine. "It's this fine level of detail that can really bring a scene to life for the reader."
Fresh from the success of the 2009 Davitt Award (Readers Choice category), Katherine Howell is set to keep Maitland audiences on the edge of their seats when she appears on Friday 4 september for the Maitland City Library Look Who's Talking programme. A week ago, the 500 members of sisters in Crime voted Howell's second novel, The Darkest Hour, as the top book of 2008.
Howell was the winner of the 2007 Davitt Award for best new crime novel by a woman writer for her book, FranticEach of Howell’s books are crime thrillers, which feature a different paramedic whose life spirals into danger alongside Sydney police detective Ella Marconi who lands the job of sorting out the mess.
Katherine Howell’s novels have been published in Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Russia. Recent UK reviews describe her work as ‘finely paced and engrossing’, and say that ‘the former Sydney paramedic is set to do for that profession what US author Patricia Cornwell did for forensic pathologists’.
“Howell’s fast-moving plots are taut and suspenseful,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “She brings a gripping sense of reality and drama to her books.”
Katherine Howell will appear at the Family Hotel, Maitland on Friday 4 September, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm. Entry is $10.00 per person and includes wine and canapés. Bookings are essential for this event and can be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952. This is a Maitland City Library Look Who’s Talking event
Write Now! Award Winners
The winners of the Write Now! Awards were announced at a special presentation ceremony on Wednesday 26 August at East Maitland Library. The awards recognised excellence in writing by infants and primary aged children in the Maitland area and were established by the Friends of Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland City Library and the University of Newcastle last year.
"The aim of the award is to encourage literacy development, foster creativity and promote pride in achievement for children in the local Maitland area,” said Barbara Gow, Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson. “It has provided an exciting opportunity for infants and primary aged students to develop their writing skills and be rewarded for their efforts.”
The award was open to entrants from years K to 6, including Stages 1, 2 and 3. Winning and highly commended entries were awarded to the following children.
Stage 1
Winner: Jonathon Willmot
(Home Educated)
Highly Commended: Jessica Sleap
(Bolwarra Public School)
Stage 2
Joint-Winner: Jordyn McFerran
(East Maitland Public School)
Joint-Winner: Elizabeth Gioia
(Thornton Public School)
Stage 3
Winner: Gabrielle Cadenhead
(East Maitland Public School)
Highly Commended: Brianna McDougall
(Bolwarra Public School)
Write Now! entries are currently on display at East Maitland Library.
Award winner to visit Maitland during Children's Book Week
Colin Thompson brings a unique combination of humour, imagination and social conscience to his writing. His latest title, The Big Little Book of Happy Sadness, is currently shortlisted for the 2009 Children’s Book Council Picture Book of the Year, an award he won in 2006 with the critically acclaimed and universally loved Short and Incredibly Happy Life of Riley. Last year, Thompson received an Honour Award in the same category for his book, Dust. He has been shortlisted for the Astrid Lindgren Award - the most prestigious children's literature prize in the world.
I have always believed in the magic of childhood and think that if you get your life right that magic should never end,’ says Thompson. Since he started writing and illustrating children's books in 1990, Colin Thompson has had more than 50 books published. Thompson, who has worked as a silk-screen printer, graphic designer, stage manager and film maker, has also written for adults. His semi-autobiographical novel, Laughing for beginners, is an exceptionally moving, yet funny account of losing and retrieving sanity.
More recently he has raised over $120,000 for the Save the Children organisation through the picture book Dust. Inspired by 2005 television news reports of starvation in Niger, Colin decided to organise the book to raise money to try and help those who cannot help themselves. He wrote the book and he and 13 other illustrators each did an illustration.
Colin is currently working on two adult novels, an illustrated book of poetry, two film scripts, a TV series called Fairies (which is not a children’s series!) and a sequel to Dust.
Maitland City Library will host Colin Thompson at Brough House, Church Street, Maitland on Tuesday 25 August, from 6.00 – 8.00 pm. The cost is $10.00 per person including wine and canapés. Bookings are essential for this event and may be made by phoning Maitland Library on 4933 6952.
Take a Book Safari during Children's Book Week
Kids are invited to come on a Book Safari to discover some great stories with Maitland City Library during Children’s Book Week 24-28 August. Join the expedition at any of the Library’s branches and go wild with the world of books.
Children’s Book Week is a great time to experience the magic of stories,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. Maitland City Library has an exciting programme aimed at highlighting quality books for children, including storytelling and author visits.”
Children’s Book Week is the longest running children's festival in Australia, enjoying its 64th birthday in 2009. The prestigious Children’s Book Week Awards are given every year in recognition of quality children’s literature. This is a great time for celebrating books and the joy of reading with local children.
Visitors to Maitland City Library branches can expect some wild scenes as children from preschools and primary schools join the Book Safari. The Library’s expert storytelling team will present a selection of the best stories from the 2009 Children’s Book Week Awards short list during the week.
Maitland City Library is also pleased to host the prize winning children’s author and illustrator, Colin Thompson, during Book Week. Colin won Picture Book of the Year during the 2006 Book Week Awards for The Short and Incredibly Happy Life of Riley and has been shortlisted for many other awards, including the Astrid Lindgren Award - the most prestigious children's literature prize in the world. This year The Big Little Book of Happy Sadness has been shortlisted for Best Picture Book.
Children’s Book Week events are suitable for preschool, infants and primary school groups. Bookings are essential and may be made by contacting the friendly staff at Maitland City Library on phone 4933 6952 for session times and details
Write Now! Children's Literary Award to be announced during Children's Book Week
Winners of the Write Now! Children’s Literary Award will be announced during Children’s Book Week. A special presentation to Write Now! winners will take place at East Maitland Library on Wednesday 26 August.
Entries have been shortlisted and will be judged by a panel including local crime writer, Barry Maitland, the City Librarian and representatives from the University of Newcastle and the Friends of Maitland City Library.
The following prizes will be awarded:
- First place, Stage 1 students $100.00 voucher at McDonalds Bookshop
- First place, Stage 2 students $100.00 voucher at McDonalds Bookshop
- First place, Stage 3 students $100.00 voucher at McDonalds Bookshop
- Highly commended awards $25.00 voucher at McDonalds Bookshop
The award recognises excellence in writing by infants and primary aged children in the Maitland area and were established by the Friends of Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland City Library and the University of Newcastle in 2008.
Entrants, friends, families and school teachers are welcome to attend the award presentation, which will be held 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm on 26 August at East Maitland Library. Bookings can be made by phoning 4933 6952.
Dont judge a book by it's cover
The Living Library, a new community initiative based on sharing stories to increase understanding and acceptance, is set to commence operation this week. The Living Library is just like a regular library, but with one difference – in a Living Library, people are the books!
The Maitland Living Library is part of a national initiative to break down barriers through conversation in local communities. It is based on the quirky analogy of calling people books and making them available for short term loan in the safe and welcoming environment of the public library.
Have you ever wanted to know how to rescue bread, what blind people really see or how people smile after something terrible has happened? There are currently over 30 living books in the Maitland Living Library catalogue and the following books are available ‘for loan’ on July 30 -31:
Surviving: Survivor of extreme childhood abuse, changing the law and living with a partner with cancer
Activist: Being an activist and ex-Councillor
The bloody new Australian: Life as a teenager in occupied territory in World War 2 and the bloody new
Australian!
An accidental life: Owning a private zoo and going blind by accident
Moving on: Living with an alcoholic and living with a hearing impediment
Success at 63!: University at 63 and life in a 3rd world country
Suicide and cults: Surviving a son’s suicide after following his father into a cult
Anyone can: Living with an alcoholic father, agoraphobia, brother's death from
AIDS, teenage daughters
Living Books will be available at Maitland Library on Thursday 30 July from 2.00 pm – 5.00 pm and East Maitland Library on Friday 31 July between 10.00 am – 1.00 pm. To reserve a Living Book please phone Maitland Library on 4933 6952 or book online at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library.
Barry Maitland in conversation with Peter Corris:
Barry Maitland is widely recognised as one of Australia’s foremost crime fiction writers and has been nominated by The Australian as one of the top five crime writers in the world. Barry, a well-known local, has written 10 critically acclaimed titles and is the award winning author of the acclaimed Brock and Kolla series of crime mystery novels set in London.
Dark Mirror is Maitland’s eleventh novel, and marks the return of Brock and Kolla after a brief hiatus, when they are brought in to investigate the murder of a mysterious beauty in the London Library. As Brock and Kolla get closer to the truth, another victim dies an excruciating death by poison in a library, and it looks like a serial murderer is on the loose.
Peter Corris has written over 50 books and has been described as the ‘father’ of crime fiction. He is credited with pioneering the crime novel in Australia, being the first to use local, recognisable setting and Australian cultural references. However, it is for Cliff Hardy, a Sydney-based private eye and the central character of many of his novels, that Peter Corris is so well-known. Cliff Hardy has walked the mean streets in 30 novels so far, with his most recent appearance in The Undertow, which was published in December 2006.
This will be a compelling event,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Two writers who are recognised as masters in their fields will discuss the exciting new Dark Mirror, and provide an insight into why we are fascinated with crime.”
Barry Maitland and Peter Corris will appear ‘in conversation’ on 24 July 6.00 – 8.00 pm at Maitland Regional Art Gallery. Bookings are essential and can be made by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Birthday Celebrations at Thornton Library
Officially opened by Premier Bob Carr on 28 July 1999, Thornton Library has seen its popularity continue to grow in the last 10 years. Over 50 new members join each month and every new joining is able to immediately borrow up to 30 items at a time for three weeks . Many more people visit the library to read the newspaper, browse the magazines or surf the net.
The birthday celebrations have already started with a competition to design a 10th anniversary commemorative bookmark, open to all children up to 12 years of age. A limited run of the winning book mark will be produced and available through the library.
The celebrations continue on Monday 27 July 10.30am with a birthday theme for storytime and a free balloon for every child.
Tuesday 28 July is time to celebrate. At 10.30 am come along to our Baby Book Club for children up to 2 years of age.
Everyone is welcome join the library staff for afternoon tea from 1 p.m
All week drop in to the library and collect a voucher to reserve 3 items for free from any Maitland City Library branch.
Can you guess how many items are in the Thornton collection? (Hint between 16,000 and 20,000). Drop your entry in before 1August to win a fabulous prize.
See you at Thornton Library – Happy 10th Birthday!
Well known author of indigenous literature to visit Maitland during NAIDOC Week
One of Australia’s most prolific and well-known authors of indigenous literature, Dr Anita Heiss, will appear in Maitland as part of Maitland City Library’s Look Who’s Talking programme on Monday 6 July.
A member of the Wiradjuri nation in central NSW, Anita is in town as part of the Library’s NAIDOC Week activities. Anita has not only published across a range of historical fiction, chick lit and poetry, she is also an activist, academic and social commentator.
Her published works include the historical novel Who Am I? The Diary of Mary Talence, Sydney 1937, the poetry collection Token Koori, satirical social commentary Sacred Cows, non-fiction text Dhuuluu-Yala (To Talk Straight) – Publishing Aboriginal Literature, and a children’s book entitled Me and My Mum. Anita has also edited editions of Southerly, Five Bells and the anthology Life in Gadigal Country.
In 2008, Anita co-edited with Peter Minter The Macquarie PEN Anthology of Aboriginal Literature, which showcases 81 different Aboriginal writers, playwrights, storytellers, poets, songwriters and leaders.
In 2007 Anita released three titles: Not Meeting Mr Right (Random House) for which she won the Deadly Award for Outstanding Contribution to Literature. Her poetry collection also released in 2007 I’m not racist, but… (Salt Publishing) won the Scanlon Prize for Indigenous Poetry and the kids novel Yirra and her deadly dog Demon (ABC Books), was launched at the 2007 Sydney Writers Festival by Her Excellency Marie Bashir, Governor of NSW.
Her latest work Manhattan Dreaming will be released in 2010.
Anita was awarded the ASA Medal for Under 35s for her contribution to Australian community and public life in 2003. In 2004 Anita was awarded the NSW Indigenous Arts Fellowship and was listed in The Bulletin magazine’s “Smart 100”. She was also nominated for a 2004 Deadly Award for Outstanding Achievement in Literature. Anita has performed her works nationally at writers’ festivals across Australia, and internationally in Spain, Austria, the USA, Canada, Fiji, Japan, New Zealand, China and New Caledonia. She has also been published widely in journals, anthologies and on-line. Anita has made guest appearances on the ABC's Einstein Factor, Message Stick, Vulture Critical Mass, A Difference of Opinion and The Catch up and 9am with David and Kim.
Dr Anita Heiss will appear on Monday 6 July 12.30 pm – 2.00 pm at the Royal River Inn, Morpeth.
Maitland Living Library Launch
An exciting community initiative is set to be launched by Maitland City Library on Monday 25 May. The Maitland Living Library is part of a national initiative to break down barriers through conversation in local communities. It is based on the quirky analogy of calling people books and making them available for short term loan in the safe and welcoming environment of the public library. In fact, it is just like a regular library, but with one difference – in a Living Library, the books are people!
We all have a story worth telling and worth hearing,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “The Maitland Living Library is an opportunity to increase our understanding of different life experiences through dialogue. Fundamentally, it’s about challenging our views and assumptions, and learning about the experience of others.”
The idea was initiated at a European music festival in an effort to address violence and racism. The concept was that if people actually met and talked to their prejudices, increased understanding would result in less violence. The initiative was taken up by the ‘all different-all equal’ campaign in Europe and Living Libraries are now a popular fixture at music festivals around the world.
In Australia, the first living library was launched by the Lismore community in 2006 thanks to the drive of a Lismore resident who read a small article in the Sydney Morning Herald. It was intended to be a one off event that has since evolved into an ongoing programme, now administered by Lismore Library on a monthly basis. It is part of a national strategy, launched by the Australian Government in 2008, aimed at connecting and strengthening local communities through conversation.
The patron for Living Libraries Australia, well-known actress Noni Hazlehurst, says, “You truly cannot understand or criticise someone until you walk a mile in their shoes - and to do that you have to meet them and talk to them. Living libraries encourage the kind of communication revolution we desperately need, and the possibilities for friendship and enrichment are endless. I can think of no demographic or age group that wouldn't benefit from borrowing from the living library.” Maitland Living Library will operate on a designated day each month from July 2009. Borrowers will be allocated 30 minutes for their book reading and can renew their loan if there are no other bookings. The book and borrower go to the appointed reading place in the Library where they will converse about the Book’s identified subject. The Maitland Living Library will be launched 6.00 pm Monday 25 May 2009 at East Maitland Library. Contact Maitland Library on phone 4933 6952 to book for this event or for more information.
National Simultaneous Storytime at Maitland
On Wednesday 27 May beginning at 11.00am Maitland City Library will join libraries, schools and other community centres from Broome to Hobart, reading the picture book Pete the Sheep to more than a 800,000 Australian children.
Now in its ninth successful year, National Simultaneous Storytime 2009 aims to celebrate and acknowledge the vital work being done in libraries, schools and communities around Australia to develop young people’s literacy and numeracy skills.
This event has been organised by the Australian Library and Information Association to promote the value of reading and literacy, the importance of Australia’s book industry and the role of libraries’’, said City Librarian, Keryl Collard.
This year's book, Pete the Sheep, is written by celebrated author Jackie French and illustrated by Bruce Whatley. The story is about Shaun, a shearer, who doesn't have a sheepdog to help him - he has a sheep, named Pete!
‘We have some guest storytellers participating in National Simultaneous Storytime at Maitland City Library branches,’ said Keryl. ‘Local schools and pre-schools have been invited to attend the sessions which are also open to any children to attend from the general community.’
For information about National Simultaneous Storytime at Maitland City Library branches, contact Maitland Library on 4933 6952, East Maitland Library on 4933 7122, Rutherford Library on 4932 8730 and Thornton Library on 4964 4468.
Treasures for book lovers and bargain hunters
Book lovers and bargain hunters can indulge their passion at the Friends of Maitland City Library annual book sale. The sale will be held Saturday 30 May from 9.00 am – 4.00 pm at the Maitland Town Hall.
It will be a book lover’s paradise’, said Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson, Barbara Gow. ‘There is a wide selection of books, from fiction to non-fiction, paperback to hardback. People can pick and choose their favourites to take home’.
Each year the style Library sorts through its collections and removes redundant stock and offers them at bargain prices. The Library Book Sale is always a huge hit with members of the community, and it offers great value for money. Prices range from 50c to $2, and library bags can be purchased and filled for $10.
Not only is there a larger selection of books than ever before, bargain hunters will also be able to enjoy a sausage sizzle which will be provided by Ashtonfield Public School P&C Association.Information on the book sale may be obtained by phoning Maitland City Library on 4933 6952.
Local Studies Strategy for Maitland
As information is held in many locations and by various organisations, community groups and individuals, the key focus of the project is the development of a single electronic access point.
All groups and individuals known to hold records relevant to the project will be sent a questionnaire shortly to complete. This information will assist in locating and understanding the extent of available resources.
Information sessions to assist in completing the questionnaire will be held at Maitland Library on May 12th 10am -12pm and May 13th 6pm-8pm.
The project will also provide best practice guidelines for the preservation of records and will promote partnerships between community groups, government departments, organisations and individuals.
Mayor Peter Blackmore said, “A common issue faced by researchers is not knowing where or how to locate information on the history and heritage of Maitland. This project will, for the first time, provide the ability to locate information electronically from a single access point. It is a major step in the development of the City’s local studies resources.”
For further information about the project, please contact Keryl Collard on 4934704 or Clare James on 49349832.
Writing skills to be rewarded
Maitland kids will be sharpening up their writing skills over the next couple of months as they take on the Write Now! challenge. Entries are now open to Maitland's newewst writing competition, Write Now! - an exciting opportunity for infants and primary aged children in the Maitland area.
The aim of the award is to encourage literacy development, foster creativity and promote pride in achievement for children in the local area,” said Barbara Gow, Friends of Maitland City Library Chairperson. “It will be presented for excellence in creative writing and will be open to K-6 students.”
Kids are invited to write on the theme of ‘My Local Hero’ to be in the running for some great prizes. They can also get some help by attending a series of free writing workshops which will assist in the development of creative writing and presentation skills.
The award is administered by the Friends of Maitland City Library in partnership with Maitland City Library and the University of Newcastle’s Faculty of Education and will be presented during Children’s Book Week in August. Entries close on 19 June
Information about the Write Now! writing challenge is available from all Maitland City Library branches, the Maitland City Library website at www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/library or by phoning 4933 6952
Share your story in the Living Library
We all have a story worth telling and worth hearing. A new community initiative, the Living Library, is based on sharing stories to increase understanding and acceptance. The Living Library, which will be launched by Maitland City Library in 2009, is just like a regular library, but with one difference – in a Living Library, people are the books!
“We are very excited at being able to offer this programme to the community,” said City Librarian, Keryl Collard. “Based on the quirky analogy – calling people ‘books’ and listing them in ‘catalogues’, the Living Library offers a unique, innovative approach to increasing our understanding of serious issues.”
The purpose of a Living Library is to give people an opportunity to speak personally to a 'stranger' in a structured, protected, yet completely free space. It works on the premise that sharing stories through one-on-one conversations provides a way of replacing stereotypes and prejudices with understanding and acceptance.
First launched in Denmark in 2000, it was quickly picked up by the Council of Europe for their all different – all equal campaign and is now a regular feature at music festivals around the world. The Australian government recently launched a national strategy, Living Libraries Australia, which aims to introduce a Living Library into every Australian community.
Patron for Living Libraries Australia, well-known actress, Noni Hazelhurst, said, “You cannot truly understand or criticise someone until you walk a mile in their shoes – and to do that you have to meet them and talk to them.”
Maitland City Library is interested in local people who are willing to share their story openly, while at the same time being able to respond calmly and maturely to stereotypes and prejudices. People that have successfully changed negative or destructive behaviour, navigated a challenging life experience or have a story about a different life experience are encouraged to apply to be volunteer Books.
“A Living Library provides the Maitland community with an effective and low-cost strategy to bring people from diverse backgrounds and lifestyles together in one-on-one conversation. Maitland City Library is excited to be a part of the international groundswell implementing the Living Library concept,” Keryl Collard said.
Information sessions for people interested in becoming a Book in the Maitland Living Library will be held at the end of March. If you are interested in becoming a Living Book please contact Maitland City Library on 4934 9845, use our online registration form or email livinglibrary@maitland.nsw.gov.au for more information.
Connect @ Your Library
Maitland City Library service enriches community life through connecting people with learning and leisure resources.
From books and CDs to relaxing magazines and interesting information.
You can keep up with the latest read by grabbing something from the New Title stand. Feeling busy? Then connect by listening to a book on a CD while in the car, kitchen or garage!
Connect via email or blogs on the internet computers at your library.
Connect with authors through "Look Who's Talking" and fun stories for children at "Reading Adventures".
Babies, parents and carers connect through sharing reading, rhymes and actions.
Meet with friends...Ask the staff for just what you need...Connect with the past through local studies and family history.
Visit your local library today at Maitland, East Maitland, Rutherford and Thornton.
Maitland City Library - Connecting Our Community Return to top
Look Who's Talking in 2009
Get ready to be informed and entertained by the great line-up of authors and events in Maitland City Library's Look Who's talking programme. If you loved last year's programme, listen up for the authors who will be coming to town this year. Read about our 2009 programme
Want quick and easy access to a world of information, anytime and anywhere?
From the world of art, literature, science, health, history or current affairs, to such respected resources as the Oxford English Dictionary and the World Book Encyclopedia, our electronic resource collection is sure to assist with your research needs. A Maitland City Library card is all that is required to get connected, so contact any branch library to enquire about obtaining a card if you do not already have one.
To ensure that the whole community can benefit from our electronic library, all Maitland Library branches provide free public access to computer facilities along with staff assistance to help you get the best results for your research.
Please contact us for further details, or visit our Online Database page to see our full list of online resources or to begin searching.
Opening hours proving popular
Increased opening hours at East Maitland Library are proving popular with the community. Following strong support from customer survey and usage patterns, opening hours were extended at the beginning of 2010. The Library now opens at 9.00am Monday to Saturday, and is open until 6.00pm on Monday and 7.00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday - perfect for busy workers, homework help and evening reading. The library closes at 5pm on Friday and 2.00pm on Saturday.
East Maitland Library ofers a wide range of free services for all ages including internet, audio books, magazines, author visits and storytimes for babies and children. So visit your library today.