What's On Summer 2025-2026

open for discovery

S

December 2025 – February 2026

WELCOME

Whitehorse Manningham Libraries acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung peoples

as Traditional Owners of the land and waterways now known as Whitehorse and

Manningham. We pay our respects to their past, present and emerging Elders.

Booking an event

All bookings are for events to be held between

1 December 2025 and 28 February 2026, either over

Zoom or in person.

Spaces fill up quickly so we recommend you book as

soon as you can. If you can no longer attend, please

contact a member of staff or cancel online so it can

be offered to someone on the waiting list.

If your chosen event is booked out, join our waiting

list. We will contact you if tickets become available.

A reminder that booking fees apply to some holiday

activities and are non-refundable.

How to register

Online

Visit wml.vic.gov.au and select the ‘Book an Event’

tab. You can search for the event name or browse by

category, audience, language or month. Click on the

event and click the ‘Register for event’ button on the

right-hand side. Please make sure your details are

correct as a staff member may need to contact you

regarding your event.

By phone or in person

Contact us by phone or in branch, and a staff

member will book you in to the event.

活动预定

所有预订的活动将通过 Zoom 在线举行或以面对

面的形式进行。预约通常很快满额 , 所以建议您尽

早预定。若您预定后无法参加 , 请联系工作人员或

在线取消 , 这样可将您的名额转给等待名单上的其

他人士。

若欲参加活动已经定满 , 您可加入我们的等待名

单。若有多余名额 , 我们将与您联系。

如何预定

线上预定

登陆 wml.vic.gov.au 网站 , 并选择 ‘Events ( 活动 )’

标签。您可搜索活动名称或按照活动类别、观众

群体、语言或月份查看。请先点击感兴趣的活动 ,

然后点击右侧红色 ‘Register for event ( 活动注册 )’

按钮。请确保提供准确的个人信息 , 方便工作人员

在需要时与您联系。

电话预定或前往图书馆预定

可致电或亲自前往图书馆 , 工作人员会协助您进行

活动预约。

Auslan interpretation can be arranged for any library event by request.

Please contact library staff to arrange.

Program details were correct at the time of printing,

but events may vary from the information here.

For further information, refer to our website.

www.wml.vic.gov.au

印刷时活动详情为准确信息 , 但实际活动细

节可能会有所不同。欲知详情 , 请登陆网站

www.wml.vic.gov.au 查询。

CONTENTS

CHILDREN & FAMILIES 4

Multicultural storytime 4

Big Summer Read 8

End of year fun! 10

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 11

MAKERSPACE YOUTH 13

YOUTH 12–17 YEARS 16

ENGLISH LANGUAGE 17

WRITING & LITERATURE 18

Author talks 18

LIFESTYLE & LEARNING 23

Ageing Well 24

Creative Living 25

Libraries Afer Dark 28

Emergency Preparedness 31

Gardening & Nature 32

Health & Wellbeing 33

Sustainable Living 35

GAMES & HOBBIES 37

MAKERSPACE ADULT 38

eLEARNING & TECHNOLOGY 41

Declutter/Restoration 41

Digital Life Hacks 42

eLibrary 44

Staying Safe Online 46

INDEX 47

CHILDREN

& FAMILIES

ALL REGULAR PROGRAMS FINISH IN THE WEEK ENDING 14 DECEMBER 2025

AND RECOMMENCE WEEK BEGINNING 2 FEBRUARY 2026.

Baby Karaoke

0–1 year

Join us each week to sing along together

with simple songs and nursery rhymes.

For children from birth to 12 months old,

with parents and carers.

Does not run during school holidays – check

for special sessions in holiday programs.

Registration: Not required

Branch Date Time

Box Hill Fridays 10.30am – 11.00am

Bulleen (commencing

February)

Fridays

10.30am – 11.00am

Doncaster Tuesdays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

Nunawading Tuesdays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

The Pines Mondays 10.30am – 11.00am

Vermont South Thursdays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

Warrandyte Wednesdays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

4 Register for events online at www.wml.vic.gov.au or in branch

Children & Families | WHAT’S ON

Tiny Tots

1–3 years

Simple stories, nursery songs, rhymes and a craft

activity especially designed for babies and toddlers

up to 3 years old.

Program does not run during school holidays –

check for special sessions in holiday programs.


Branch Date Time

Blackburn Tuesdays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

Box Hill Thursdays 10.30am – 11.00am

Bulleen Wednesdays 10.30am – 11.00am

Doncaster Mondays 2.30pm – 3.00pm

Nunawading

Mondays

Fridays

2.30pm – 3.00pm

10.30am – 11.00am

The Pines Tuesdays 10.30am – 11.00am

Vermont South Tuesdays 10.30am – 11.00am

Preschool Storytime

3–5 years

Join us for stories, rhymes and a craft activity. Lots

of fun and socialising in a relaxed environment, as

well as literacy tips for parents and carers.

Does not run during school holidays – check for

special sessions in holiday programs.


Branch Date Time

Blackburn Thursdays 11.00am – 11.45am

Box Hill Fridays 11.00am – 11.45am

Bulleen Mondays 11.00am – 11.45am

Doncaster Wednesdays 11.00am – 11.45am

Nunawading Tuesdays 11.00am – 11.45am

The Pines Thursdays 11.00am – 11.45am

Vermont South Fridays 11.00am – 11.45am

Warrandyte Wednesdays 11.00am – 11.45am

LUNAR NEW YEAR

Bilingual Storytime

3+ years

Join us for a festive Lunar New Year celebration

perfect for the whole family! Discover traditional

stories told in both English and Mandarin, and

learn more about the rich traditions of the season.

Feel free to come dressed in traditional attire to

add to the fun! The celebration will conclude with

a craft activity for everyone to enjoy.

欢迎参与本馆的农历新年庆祝活动 , 与家人一同感受

浓厚的节日氛围 ! 通过中英双语故事会 , 您可以深入

了解经典民间故事和节庆习俗。我们也欢迎大家穿上

传统服饰 , 尽情欢庆佳节。当日活动的压轴环节将是

适合全家参与的手作体验 , 为节日留下完美的回忆。


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Sat 14 Feb 11.00am – 11.45am

Register for events online at www.wml.vic.gov.au or in branch

5

WHAT’S ON | Children & Families

Mandarin Storytime

0–5 years

Experienced presenters from A Little Chinese

Adventure will provide fun storytelling, songs and

craft. They will also introduce children to stories

from our Chinese collection.

Arabic Storytime

1–5 years

Join us for Arabic stories and rhymes to support

families with young children who wish to maintain

a family language or learn an additional language.

Please see website for outreach location.

的发言人将带来精彩纷呈的故事介绍、

歌曲演唱和手工制作 , 他们还会为孩子们

介绍本馆中文书目中的部分故事。


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Tue 9 Dec 10.30am – 11.15am

Tue 10 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am

Tue 24 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am

Doncaster Tue 2 Dec 10.30am – 11.15am

Tue 3 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am

Tue 17 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am


Branch Date Time

The Pines Thu 4 Dec 2.00pm – 2.45pm

Thu 18 Dec 2.00pm – 2.45pm

Thu 5 Feb 2.00pm – 2.45pm

Thu 19 Feb* 2.00pm – 2.45pm

* Outreach location is the Heimat Centre

Persian Storytime

0–5 years

A warm welcome awaits you as our Persian

storyteller shares Persian language and culture

through stories, songs and craft activities. Held on

the fourth Saturday of the month during school term.

Italian Storytime

1–5 years

Join us for Italian stories and rhymes to support

families with young children who wish to maintain

a family language or learn an additional language.

Please see website for outreach location.



Branch Date Time

Doncaster Sat 28 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am

Branch Date Time

Bulleen Tue 9 Dec 11.00am – 11.45am

Tue 13 Jan 11.00am – 11.45am

Tue 10 Feb 11.00am – 11.45am

Tue 24 Feb* 11.00am – 11.45am

* Outreach location is the Bulleen Plaza



Greek Storytime

2–6 years

Join Denise on the second Tuesday of each month

during the school term for songs and stories

followed by a simple craft activity.

LEGO ® Club

5–10 years

Do you love LEGO ® ? We supply the bricks, you bring

the imagination! Join in the fun of these weekly

sessions. Runs during school terms. For kids aged

5 to 10.


Branch Date Time


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Tue 9 Dec 11.00am – 11.45am

Tue 10 Feb 11.00am – 11.45am

Blackburn Saturdays 2.30pm – 3.30pm

Box Hill Fridays 4.00pm – 5.00pm

Bulleen Saturdays 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Doncaster Mondays 4.00pm – 5.00pm

Nunawading Thursdays 4.00pm – 5.00pm

Vermont South Saturdays 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Warrandyte Tuesdays 4.00pm – 5.00pm

Auslan Storytime

1–5 years

Join us for a unique storytime experience presented

in both English and Auslan! Led by a skilled team

from Expression Australia including a translator

and signer, this event offers engaging stories, lively

songs and a fun craft activity. Plus, you can pick up

some new Auslan signs at every session!


Book Ninjas

7–12 years

Meeting on the last Tuesday of every month starting

in February, Book Ninjas is a casual after school club

for kids who like reading, writing, or being creative.

Each kid can talk about a book they’ve been reading,

and then everyone joins in a fun activity.

Registration: Required

Branch Date Time

Online via zoom Tue 24 Feb

4.30pm – 5.15pm

Branch Date Time

Doncaster Thu 4 Dec 11.00am – 11.45am

Thu 5 Feb

11.00am – 11.45am


7


4–12 years

Today’s the day! Come into any branch, scan the QR code at

our special sign-up table, or grab a paper log-sheet to record

the books you read over summer. Everyone will get a small

prize just for joining up!


Branch Date Time

All branches Mon 1 – Fri 5 Dec Branch opening hours

8



with Magician Tim Mason!

4–12 years

It’s double the excitement: first we will be drawing the major

prizes for the Big Summer Read winners, and then we will be

entertained by the hilarious and talented Tim Mason! We’ll finish

with extra door prizes, so make sure you’re there to join in the fun!


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Sat 14 Feb 2.00pm – 2.45pm

9


Children’s Christmas Craft:

Layered Santa Face

8–12 years

These layered Santa faces make a great

decoration for your Christmas tree!


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Sat 6 Dec 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Christmas Craft:

Gnome Sweet Gnome

12+ years

Ready to make the cutest Christmas ornament

ever? You will make a felt gnome decoration

for your shelf or your Christmas tree. It makes

a great little gift, but it’ll be too cute to give

away! Sewing required. Strictly 12+.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Mon 15 Dec 4.00pm – 5.00pm

Christmas Storytime

All ages

During December you can indulge your love

of Christmas stories, songs and activities at

these two branches! Finish up the year with

these festive offerings.


Branch

Doncaster &

Vermont South

Date

See Early Years programs

schedule on the WML website



INTERNATIONAL DAY

OF WOMEN AND GIRLS

IN SCIENCE

Robogals: Vex Robots

7+ years

This day aims to highlight the critical role of women and

girls in the fields of science and technology and supports

opportunities to strengthen their participation. Why not get

your budding scientist fired up with these fun workshops?

VEX Robotics provides the tools to inspire problem solving

through the use of educational robotic solutions.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Sat 7 Feb 10.30am – 12.00pm

Robogals: Spike Prime

8+ years

Students will attempt multiple programming challenges that

proceed with increasing levels of difficulty using LEGO ® SPIKE

Prime robots. These workshops aim to encourage students’

curiosity and awareness about STEM, and cater for students

from Grade 3 and up.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Sat 7 Feb 2.00pm – 3.30pm


11

Summer is Here!

Program available for viewing 29 Dec 2025

Bookings open 5 Jan 2026

MAKERSPACE

YOUTH

DECEMBER EVENTS OPEN NOW.

JANUARY EVENTS OPEN BY MIDDAY MONDAY 1 DECEMBER.

FEBRUARY EVENTS OPEN BY MIDDAY FRIDAY 2 JANUARY.

Foamboard Printmaking:

Cards

8–12 years

Foamboard printmaking is an easy, quick and

effective relief printing technique like wood block

and lino cut printing with one awesome difference –

no sharp tools!

In this fun workshop, we will press drawings and

designs into foam printing plates, drawing bright

pictures on them before turning them upside down

and printing a colourful card.


Branch Date Time

Drawing Code: Ozobots

6–12 years

Ozobots are small, clever robots that explore their

environment by interpreting drawings and colours as

code. Discover how to program and engage with the

tangible world using colourful markers and the visual

programming language known as Ozoblockly. In this

session, we’ll build a city out of LEGO ® for the robots

to drive around.


Bulleen Mon 8 Dec 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Vermont South Tue 9 Dec 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Branch Date Time

The Pines Tue 27 Jan 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Doncaster Thu 19 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm


13

13

WHAT’S ON | makerspace youth

LEGO ® Printmaking Holiday

Cards

8–12 years

Explore printmaking through the unexpected use of

LEGO ® pieces to create multicolour prints with ink.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Thu 4 Dec 4.15pm – 5.15pm

LEGO ® Stop Motion

Animation

8–12 years

Build a LEGO ® scene and bring it to life with the

magic of stop motion animation.


Branch Date Time


The Pines Fri 19 Dec 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Ambient Music Jam

8–12 years

An array of usual music making apps and

instruments will be set out for participants to engage

in an ambient jam-session lead by our MakerSpace

instructor. This session will encourage listening,

cooperation, experimentation, and play. No musical

experience required.


Branch Date Time


Box Hill Fri 6 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Simple Electronic Circuits

8–12 years

We’ll explore conductivity in this great introduction

to electronics. Using kid-friendly materials, we’ll

create a working circuit made of common electronic

components and craft materials.


Branch Date Time

Bulleen Mon 2 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Vermont South Tue 3 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Blackburn Wed 11 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm


makerspace youth | WHAT’S ON

Recycled Clothing for

LEGO ® Minifigures

8–12 years

We’ll be making tiny clothes for our LEGO®

minifigures using recycled and upcycled materials

for a tiny fashion show. Feel free to bring along your

own minifigure as well!


Branch Date Time


The Pines Fri 13 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Mega Marble Run

8–12 years

Set up a giant marble run with our incredible

Gravitrax marble system – see physics in action as

we build and test our creations.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Fri 20 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Nunawading Wed 25 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm


Origami Fidget Toys:

Flexagons

8–12 years

A flexagon is a geometric shape that has a peculiar

property: when you flex it by folding it along its

creases, you can reveal new faces that were

previously hidden! They also make a perfect fidget

toy. In this class you’ll fold and decorate your own

paper flexagon for you to take home.


MakeDo: Articulated

Grabbers

8–12 years

Using cardboard and the MakeDo system of kid

friendly screws, we’ll create crazy extendable

grabbers that can reach and snap when open and

closed.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Mon 23 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

The Pines Tue 24 Feb 4.15pm – 5.15pm

Branch Date Time




15

YOUTH

12–17 YEARS

Study Support Program

ONLINE!

Can’t make it to the library, but need help with your

high school homework? You can book a 30-minute

Zoom session on Tuesday nights for one-on-one

assistance with our volunteer tutors. Library staff will

moderate these sessions. Bookings are limited to

fortnightly only.

Runs during school terms only.


Branch Date Time

Online via zoom Tuesdays 4.00pm – 6.00pm

Box Hill Study Support

Program

Need help with your high school homework? This

free program supported by tutors and a librarian

provides help with most subject areas. Includes

access to free wi-fi and printing at Box Hill Library.

Runs during school terms only.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thursdays 4.00pm – 6.00pm

Strategy Board Games

Join us for this monthly program as we play

tabletop games at the Box Hill Library. Test your

wits with strategy board games like Ticket to Ride or

Forbidden Island. Beginners welcome!


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Mon 8 Dec 5.30pm – 7.00pm

Mon 9 Feb

YA Write Club

5.30pm – 7.00pm

What exactly is YA Write Club? That will be shaped

by you. Challenge yourself with a mini writing

workshop each month, share your writing, or just

hang out with like-minded people. Second Tuesdays

of each month, starting in February.


Branch Date Time

Online via zoom Tue 10 Feb 4.30pm – 5.15pm

Role-playing Games

Join us as we delve into a world of fantasy and

magic with the legendary role-playing game of

Dungeons & Dragons! Beginners welcome.


Branch Date Time


YA = Young Adults


ENGLISH

LANGUAGE

PROGRAMS WILL RUN DURING SCHOOL TERM.

EAL Reading Group:

Early Learners

Join our EAL reading group for early learners and

improve your English reading, pronunciation and

vocabulary! This free program will help you practise

your English reading and speaking skills in a friendly

group setting, while we read a book together.


Branch Date Time


Mon 8 Dec

Mon 15 Dec

Mon 2 Feb

Mon 9 Feb

Mon 16 Feb

Mon 23 Feb

2.00pm – 2.45pm

2.00pm – 2.45pm

2.00pm – 2.45pm

2.00pm – 2.45pm

2.00pm – 2.45pm

2.00pm – 2.45pm

EAL Reading Group:

Intermediate

Would you like to improve your English skills?

Practise your English pronunciation and increase

your vocabulary? Join us for a free 8-week program

to practise English by reading a book as a group.

This program is suitable for people with lowerintermediate

English skills. Native speakers and ESL

learners welcome.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Tuesdays 10.30am – 11.30am

English Conversation Circle

Practise general English-language skills in a relaxed,

friendly, and safe environment. Meet other adults

who are learning English as an additional language.

These sessions are led by our friendly volunteers.

People from all cultural backgrounds are welcome.


EAL = English as Additional Language


17

WRITING &

LITERATURE

AUTHOR TALKS

Twelve Golden Gifts

with Spiri Tsintziras

In the moving memoir, Twelve Golden Gifts, Spiri

Tsintziras shares the gifts her mother Chrisoula

passed on to her, which helped her and her family

deal with the challenges of a dementia diagnosis,

living with dementia and coping with grief. This

author talk is for those looking after a declining loved

one – and for anyone who is moved by a beautiful –

and funny – love story.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Mon 8 Dec 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Miss Caroline Bingley:

Private Investigator

with Kelly Gardiner

Join us at Warrandyte Library to celebrate the 250th

anniversary of the birth of Jane Austen, everyone’s

favourite witty Regency writer. Local author and

creative writing teacher, Kelly Gardiner, will discuss

her own writing, Austen’s lasting influence, and her

newly imagined version of Caroline Bingley.


Branch Date Time

Warrandyte Tue 16 Dec 11:00am – 12:00pm


WRITING & LITERATURE | WHAT’S ON

AUTHOR TALKS

Restore: How Green Spaces

Support Human Restoration

with Sandra Schwarz

Time spent in green spaces and nature make us

feel better. It also makes us more empathetic, more

alert, reduces stress and provides health benefits

such as improving our immune system. Architect

Sandra Schwarz explains the green space qualities

that support human restoration, even in your own

backyard.


Branch Date Time

The Pines Wed 28 Jan 6.00pm – 7.00pm

Planting for Native Birds,

Bees and Butterflies: How to

Create a Garden that attracts

Australian Wildlife

Talk and native plant propagation

workshop with Jaclyn Crupi

Want to help the native wildlife in your area but not

sure how to start? Are you keen to grow more native

plants but have a small budget? Would you like to

attract native birds, bees and butterflies to your

outdoor spaces?

Countless Australian species of birds, bees

and butterflies are in decline or threatened with

extinction, but you can help. Writer and gardener,

Jaclyn Crupi, shows us that protecting and fostering

precious native wildlife starts in our own backyards.

The first step: start planting! And choose native

plants where possible. This alone presents endless

opportunities for habitat creation – sometimes

it’s the smallest actions that make the biggest

difference. Providing a well-placed dish of water on a

hot day, building and installing a simple insect hotel

or allowing leaf litter to stay where it falls are among

the many other super-simple ways you can make

your garden more attractive to native birds, bees and

butterflies, and in turn benefit all species. Loads of

practical advice for gardeners and novices alike.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Sat 31 Jan 10.30am-12.00pm


19

WHAT’S ON | WRITING & LITERATURE

AUTHOR TALKS

CHARLES

DICKENS DAY

Charles Dickens’s Secret

Lovechild

with Brian Ruck

For nearly a century, the relationship between

Charles Dickens and Ellen Ternan has been

shrouded in scandal, presumed to be a secret

love affair. But what if that assumption is

wrong? This groundbreaking study poses a bold

question no biographer has dared ask: could

Ellen Ternan have been Dickens’s daughter?

Drawing on Dickens’s letters and works from

Oliver Twist to Edwin Drood, the book offers

the first in-depth exploration of a possible filial

connection. Unlike previous biographers who

focus on the period after 1857, Brian Ruck

traces Ellen’s potential influence from her

earliest years, shedding new light on Dickens’s

troubled marriage to Catherine. Through a fresh

reading of familiar evidence, this provocative

analysis presents a compelling alternative to

the established narrative – one that challenges

long-held beliefs without claiming new facts,

but by weighing probabilities and offering a

daring new hypothesis rooted in literary insight.


Why Do Birds Sing?

with Dr Grainne Cleary

Dr Grainne Cleary returns to The Pines Library to

share insights from her newly published book, Why

Do Birds Sing? – a fascinating exploration of the

science, mystery, and beauty of birdsong.

Grainne previously delighted audiences with stories

from her books Backyard birds and Why do birds do

that? As Australia becomes more urbanised, our

gardens have become vital sanctuaries for birdlife.

Discover how birds learn to sing, who they’re singing

to, and what they’re trying to say – insights that will

surprise and delight bird lovers and curious minds

alike.


Branch Date Time

The Pines Wed 11 Feb 2.30pm – 4.00pm

Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 4 Feb 10.30-11.30am


WRITING & LITERATURE | WHAT’S ON

WRITING

WORKSHOP

Writing Compelling

Personal Stories

Book Chat

Are you an enthusiastic reader of fiction or nonfiction

books? Are you one who loves to talk about what

you’ve read to like-minded people? Then we’d love

you to join our book chat. The discussion is led

by a librarian from the branch, and you can come

prepared to talk about a good book you have read

lately that you would like to recommend to others.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill 3rd Fridays 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Bulleen

Nunawading

2nd Tuesdays

2nd Thursdays

2.00pm – 3.00pm

2.00pm – 3.30pm

The Pines 1st Fridays 10.15am – 11.15am

Vermont South

2nd Thursdays

10.30am – 11.30am

Warrandyte 2nd Fridays 2.00pm – 3.00pm

We’ve all had fascinating experiences. How do

we know which ones are worth writing down?

In this presentation, Dr Sian Prior (Shy: A

memoir, Childless: A story of freedom and

longing), will introduce you to some of the skills

you need to write an engaging memoir: how to

find the ‘stories’ behind the ‘situations’ you’re

describing; how to choose the right ‘voice’ to

tell your stories; what to avoid when writing

memoir.

This session has appeal to those embarking on

writing their own personal memoir as part of

their wider family history story.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Tue 3 Feb 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Evening Book Chat

in person and via Zoom

The joy of reading is shared with fellow readers, with

discussion being led by a branch librarian. No matter

what you’ve been reading, come along to share

what you’ve read, or hear what others recommend.

Reading across all genres and formats, fiction and

non-fiction, audio and eBook.

Registration: Required only if attending via Zoom

Branch Date Time

Doncaster Wed 3 Dec 6.30pm – 8.00pm

Wed 7 Jan

Wed 4 Feb

6.30pm – 8.00pm

6.30pm – 8.00pm


21

WHAT’S ON | WRITING & LITERATURE

LGBTQIA+ Social/Book

Discussion Group

If you identify as LGBTQIA+ or an ally and love books

(especially those with Queer themes or authors)

then this is the group for you! This twice-monthly

gathering aims to connect the LGBTQIA+ community

within a safe, supportive environment. Come and

share a book, a book-related activity, or even some

writing of your own. This group welcomes diversity

in all forms, including people from culturally diverse

communities and people with a disability.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South

1st and 3rd

Tuesdays

6.30pm – 7.30pm

Shakespeare and Co.

A read-aloud experience!

Come to the library to enjoy some classic literature

in a read-aloud experience! You can listen to others

or join in reading a play by a well-known playwright.

Each session will be led by a branch librarian and as

a group we will take turns reading from a set play.

Attend as a reader, or as a listener/spectator.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Tue 2 Dec 6.00pm – 8.00pm

Tue 10 Feb

6.00pm – 8.00pm


LIFESTYLE

& LEARNING

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEOPLE

WITH DISABILITIES

Autism and Ageing

with Sandra Thom-Jones

Hear author and academic Sandra Thom-Jones

share insights into life as an autistic adult. Sandra

will discuss autism, ageing and how you can

support older autistic people in your community,

plus answer questions.

Everyone welcome, especially autistic people.

Wear or bring what makes you feel safe and

regulated, such as sunglasses, headphones,

fidgets, or a support person.

Proudly supported by Whitehorse

Positive Ageing.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 3 Dec 10.00am – 11.00am

Accessible Yoga

for all Abilities

Come as you are. Move as you can.

Whether you’re new to yoga, living with limited

mobility, in a wheelchair, recovering from injury,

or seeking a calmer way to move, this session is

for you. Join us for a gentle joint warm-up and

begin simple, guided poses with inclusive options

for everybody on a mat or chair.

If you require support to attend this program or

would like further information, please contact us.

BYO yoga mat or towel.

This program is proudly brought to you by

Manningham Council in partnership with

Whitehorse Manningham Libraries.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Wed 3 Dec 2.00pm – 3.00pm


23

WHAT’S ON | LIFESTYLE & LEARNING

AGEING WELL

16 DAYS OF

ACTIVISM

Financial Wellbeing

with Services Australia

As part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign,

join Services Australia for a session focused on

strengthening women’s financial wellbeing and

providing practical tools to build confidence

and plan for the future. The session will include,

but not be limited to:

• increasing your confidence with financial

matters

• understanding your own financial affairs and

options

• understanding financial planners and how to

use their advice

• how to use credit sensibly

• saving and planning for the future through

investing

• planning for your retirement


Branch Date Time


Understanding My Aged Care

Recent changes and support services

Join us for this informative workshop on My Aged

Care and learn about recent changes. Discover who is

eligible, how to access, and the range of support options

available with presenters from Services Australia.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Wed 10 Dec 11.00am – 12.00pm

Life!: Lifestyle and Prevention

Join our free community session and learn how

simple changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle can

help prevent type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and

stroke. Facilitated by a credentialled diabetes

educator, this engaging session will cover common

risk factors, practical prevention strategies, and

healthy habits for lasting health. You’ll also discover

how the Victorian Government–funded Life! program

can support your long-term wellbeing.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 5 Feb 11.00am – 12.00pm

Navigating the Aged Care

Pathway

Discover how Dovida can provide support and care for

seniors who require assistance with daily activities.

Their compassionate caregivers offer a wide range

of services, including general home help, cooking,

cleaning, transportation, personal care, companionship

and respite care. Join us for a special information

session to learn more about this invaluable service

and how it can benefit you or your loved ones.


Branch Date Time



LIFESTYLE & LEARNING | WHAT’S ON

CREATIVE LIVING

Persian Herbs and Spices

Explore the historical significance, healing properties,

and modern-day culinary uses of traditional Persian

herbs and spices such as:

• Golpar (Persian hogweed): often used in pickles

and cooked beans, believed to aid digestion.

• Zereshk (barberries): used in dishes like Zereshk

Polo, known for its antioxidant properties.

• Advieh: a Persian spice blend including cinnamon,

cardamom, cumin, and dried rose petals, used in

rice and stews.

• Dry mint and savory: widely used in soups and

yogurt-based dishes for both taste and digestion.

• Turmeric and saffron: staples of Persian cooking

with rich anti-inflammatory benefits and culinary

value.

Learn easy ways to incorporate these ingredients

into modern cooking, including health-conscious

adaptations for today’s dietary needs.


FESTIVE FUN

Crochet Christmas

Wreath Workshop

Turn your unwanted t-shirts into festive

holiday decorations! In this beginner-friendly

workshop, you’ll learn how to make your own

t-shirt yarn and crochet it into charming mini

Christmas wreaths.

Branch Date Time

Bulleen Fri 5 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Dry Flower Cards

Discover the beauty of dried flowers in this hands-on

workshop where you’ll learn the basics of working

with dried botanicals to create your own charming

gift cards. You will then design and craft a sweet

little bouquet to attach to a handmade card – perfect

for gifting or keeping as a lovely memento. Ideal for

beginners, with all materials provided.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Wed 10 Dec 2.00pm – 3.00pm

These upcycled wreaths are perfect for

hanging on your tree, decorating gifts, or

adding a handmade touch to your holiday

table. A great way to give old clothes new

life – and skip the plastic store-bought

decorations.

No crochet experience needed – we’ll guide

you through each step!


Branch Date Time



25


CREATIVE LIVING

Fermentation for Gut Health

Join Nour, a nutritionist passionate about the

connection between diet, lifestyle, and health, for a

hands-on fermentation demonstration. Discover the

science behind fermentation, its gut-health benefits,

and the creative possibilities it brings to your kitchen.

You’ll learn the basics, watch a live demo of 2–3

fermented vegetable recipes, and take home printed

guides to try at home.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 10 Dec 10.30-11.30am

Mosaic Coasters

Join us for a fun, hands-on session where you’ll

make your own mosaic coaster. All materials

are supplied, and Marie from Bunnings will guide

you through the process. Perfect as a handmade

Christmas gift!


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Wed 17 Dec 2.00pm – 3.00pm

INTERNATIONAL

MIGRANTS DAY

Cooking Class:

A Mezze Feast

Celebrate International Migrants Day by joining

Natalie, a Palestinian migrant, for a cooking

class inspired by the flavours of the Middle

East. Together, we’ll prepare a vibrant mezze

spread – from creamy Hummus and Labaneh

dips to fresh accompaniments and the ancient

and popular herb blend Za’atar – and learn how

these small plates create a feast full of colour,

generosity, and tradition.

More than just cooking, this class is about

connection: discovering the stories, culture, and

hospitality behind mezze ‘the heart of the table’

while enjoying the delight of food shared with

community. Come along to prepare, taste, and

celebrate the richness that migration brings to

our tables and our lives.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 17 Dec 10.30-11.30am

Mindful Doodling

A wonderful way to lean into the practice of

mindfulness, this doodling workshop with artist

Lou Endicott is designed for you to relax and enjoy

the process of drawing without any pressure on

the end result. A lovely antidote to the stresses of

modern life. Lou is a Melbourne-based illustrator and

designer, working with local councils, libraries and

communities to celebrate and appreciate the world

around us. She is passionate about sharing her skills

with others.


Branch Date Time

The Pines Wed 21 Jan 2.30pm – 4.00pm



CREATIVE LIVING

Chess Fundamentals:

Getting Better at Chess

Learn from Women’s Candidate Master, Jody, how

knowing the fundamentals of chess allow us to

play, think, and improve our way towards better

engagement with each other and this beautiful

game.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Sat 7 Feb 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Stone Painting

Painting stones is a fun and expressive form of

art that lets you turn ordinary rocks into vibrant

creations. Join Mary from Bunnings and use your

own patterns and designs to transform each stone

into a miniature canvas. These one-of-a-kind pieces

are perfect for decorating your home and garden, or

giving as a homemade gift.


Branch Date Time

Blackburn Wed 11 Feb 10.30am – 11.30am

LIBRARY LOVERS’ DAY

Bookmark Creations

All ages

February 14 isn’t just about roses and

chocolates – it’s also Library Lovers’ Day! Drop

in for our week-long celebration and create

your very own colourful bookmark keepsake to

treasure (or gift to someone special!)


Branch Date Time

All branches Mon 9 Feb –

Sun 15 Feb

Leather Workshop:

Make your own Bookmark

Join us for a hands-on workshop with crafting

expert, Jupiter, where you’ll learn the basics of

leatherworking and create your own custom leather

bookmark. Perfect for beginners and book lovers

alike. All tools and materials provided.


During library

hours

Branch Date Time

Box Hill Sat 21 Feb 11.00am – 12.00pm

Paper Cutting

Discover the ancient art of Chinese paper cutting!

In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the

history and cultural significance of this traditional

craft, then create their own intricate paper designs.

All materials provided. No experience necessary –

just bring your creativity!


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 26 Feb 10.00am – 11.00am


27


Our Libraries After Dark program is offered at Box Hill and Doncaster Libraries

Monday to Friday until 8 pm. The program features a varied schedule each week,

including board games, film screenings, interactive workshops and guest speakers.

This initiative is designed to foster community connection and wellbeing by

providing inclusive evening activities that encourage social engagement, personal

growth and a sense of belonging.

Libraries After Dark is delivered by Public Libraries Victoria with the support of the Victorian Government.

Bollywood Dance for

Wellbeing

Join Anjali from Embracing Spirit for a unique

Bollywood dance class that combines mindfulness,

yoga, qi gong, dance technique, and performance

arts. This class focuses on the mind-body-emotionspirit

connection, offering more than just a fun way

to stay fit. Develop your mind-body connection, gain

confidence, and learn new ways to express yourself

through dance. Wear comfortable clothes and

footwear and bring a water bottle.

Please note: Loud music will be played during the

session.


African Dance

Immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms, infectious

energy, and rich traditions of African dance. Join

Asanti Dance Theatre for an interactive class where

live drumming, joyful movement, and cultural

connection come together.

All levels are welcome — no experience needed!

Come ready to move, laugh, and celebrate the spirit

of community through dance.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 18 Dec 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Branch Date Time

Doncaster Fri 5 Dec 6.30pm – 7.30pm



Movie Night: Flow

Experience the award-winning animated

masterpiece, Flow (2024) by Gints Zilbalodis. This

dialogue-free odyssey follows a grey cat navigating

a flooded world, forging unlikely bonds with animal

companions. Stunningly crafted, Flow won both

the Oscar and the Golden Globe Awards for Best

Animated Feature. A visually breathtaking tale of

survival, resilience, and community – perfect for

sparking conversation and wonder at movie night.

Complimentary snacks will be provided to make

your evening even more enjoyable!


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 15 Jan 6.00pm – 7.30pm

Movie Night: Tracks

Join us for a cozy movie night featuring Tracks

(2013) – the astonishing true story of Robyn

Davidson’s solo trek across the Australian

desert with only her dog and four camels. Enjoy

complimentary snacks as you embark on a journey

of adventure, resilience, and self-discovery.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Fri 23 Jan 5.45pm – 7.30pm

Pilates for Beginners

Pilates improves flexibility, builds strength, and

enhances control and endurance across the whole

body. Pilates and You is all about making everyone

feel comfortable, included – and having fun! This

mat Pilates session is suitable for all levels and

abilities. All you need is a water bottle, towel,

Pilates mat (if you have one), comfy workout gear,

and your beaming energy. Presented by Ash from

@pilates.and.you.


Tai Chi

Presented by Celestial Tai Chi, this recreational

fitness system uses flowing movements to

strengthen both body and mind. Practised at a

slow, meditative pace with deep focus and natural

diaphragmatic breathing, tai chi promotes a state

of tranquil relaxation. Suitable for all fitness levels.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 12 Feb 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Yoga for Beginners

Find your inner calm and reduce stress and anxiety

in this gentle yoga class. Led by experienced

instructor, Suze Male, the session is accessible for

beginners and those with some yoga experience,

with modifications offered to suit all physical

needs. Please bring your own mat or towel.


Branch Date Time


Mindfulness Meditation

Learn the essentials of mindfulness and how

you can easily bring mindfulness to a busy day.

Remedial massage therapist, accredited meditation

teacher and holistic health practitioner, Jacqui

Mulholland of Shine Meditation, will guide you

through a mindfulness meditation designed to

relieve anxiety and create inner calm.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Wed 18 Feb 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Branch Date Time

Doncaster Fri 6 Feb 6.30pm – 7.30pm


29

GIVE THE

GIFT OF HOPE

Literacy is the Bridge from Disadvantage to Hope

Did you know?

Children experiencing

disadvantage are

more than twice

as likely to have

poor reading skills,

lower levels of home

reading & preschool

attendance

Children who begin school with lower literacy skills

will start behind and stay behind.

Help Ensure No Child is Left Behind

For as little as $10, you can help close the gap in

literacy and provide families and children

experiencing crisis to rebuild their lives.

Join us at a Photo with Santa session on

Thursday 4 December and donate on the day.

Branch Date Time

Nunawading Thu 4 Dec 10.30am – 12.30pm


$25

gifts a child

a Literacy

Library

Pack

$50

gifts 2 children

Literacy

Library

Packs

$75

gifts 3 children

Literacy

Library

Packs

Please Donate Generously

Visit www.wml.vic.gov.au or scan QR code to donate NOW


EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

Heat Health

with Ambulance Victoria

Did you know older people and young children are

most at risk during extreme heat? Learn from an

Ambulance Victoria paramedic about how to spot

heat illness, stay cool and hydrated, and make your

home safer in hot weather. Get practical tips for a

healthier, safer summer with your loved ones.


Book online (for Box Hill event):

events.humanitix.com/summerheat

Branch Date Time

Box Hill Tue 9 Dec 10.00am – 11.00am

The Pines Tue 13 Jan 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Be Ready, Stay Safe

Emergency information and

warnings for emergency

preparedness

Join us for a free event that could help save lives!

Learn how to stay informed and prepared during

emergencies with powerful apps and alert systems

right on your smartphone. Discover the best tools

for weather warnings, emergencies, and local alerts

– and get expert tips on customising them for your

needs. Whether you’re already tech-savvy or just

getting started, this workshop is for everyone.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Thu 12 Feb 10.30am – 11.30am

Prepare to Leave in an

Emergency

Information session

Would you be able to leave your home in 5 minutes

or less during an emergency? Join this free, practical

session led by Emergency Consultants and learn

how to prepare for bushfires, storms, floods and

other unexpected events. You’ll discover what

to pack in an emergency kit, how to create an

evacuation plan, and tips for protecting loved ones

and pets.


Branch Date Time

Warrandyte Tue 9 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am


31


GARDENING & NATURE

Kokedama

Step into the world of Kokedama – Japan’s

centuries-old art of moss ball gardening. In this

hands-on workshop, you’ll craft your very own

hanging Kokedama using natural materials. Perfect

as gifts or for having in the home.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Sat 13 Dec 11.00am – 12.00pm

Vertical Gardening

Vertical gardens are a great solution for the

courtyard or small garden. This presentation is

an introduction to vertical gardens – their history,

design and how to start your own. Whether

you’re a plant newbie or a seasoned green thumb,

discover how to turn your walls into living, breathing

masterpieces. Let’s get growing – upwards!

Kaye Roberts-Palmer is Director of Blue Bee Garden

Design and comes from a long family tradition of

gardening enthusiasts. She has hosted more than

100 gardening presentations and workshops across

Melbourne and is passionate about all aspects of

backyard gardening.


Branch Date Time




HEALTH & WELLBEING

Branching Out:

Family History Research

A family history program led by our experienced

branch librarian. Join with others who are on

their own research journeys, ask questions, get

assistance and learn advanced searching methods

for local and overseas archives and records.

NB: No session held in January and a special

memoir writing session in February, see separate

listing on page 21.

Registration: Required, register online

Branch Date Time


Summer Safety: Secure your

Home. Enjoy your Holiday

Feeling excited about your summer getaway?

Don’t let crime spoil your fun! Pick up some crime

prevention tips from the Doncaster Police and

Manningham Neighbourhood Watch before you go.

A little preparation ensures peace of mind, letting

you enjoy your well-deserved break. From practical

tips and safeguarding your home while you are away,

to strategies for staying safe on your travels, this

informative session will provide valuable advice and

prepare you for a worry-free holiday.


Branch Date Time

Bulleen Tue 16 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Laughter Yoga

Looking for some stress relief during the hectic silly

season? Then it’s time to join Bronwyn from Let’s

Laugh and get your giggle on.

Laughter yoga is a playful mind-body exercise that

combines intentional laughter with deep yogic

breathing, to promote health and wellbeing. It’s a fun

way to stimulate joy, reduce stress and boost both

physical and mental health through the power of

laughter.


Branch Date Time

Blackburn Wed 17 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Speech Therapy

Information session

Join Early Start Australia at Vermont South Library for

an engaging information session covering:

• Early communication milestones

• Early motor skill development

• Pre-literacy development and strategies

Our passionate Speech Pathologists and

Occupational Therapists will share insights

and practical strategies to support your child’s

development. They’ll also be available to answer

questions and discuss available services and

support.

This session is ideal for parents and caregivers of

children aged 4–6 years.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Fri 30 Jan 3.30pm – 4.30pm


33


HEALTH & WELLBEING

Keeping your Bones and

Joints Healthy without

Surgery

Protecting and preserving bone and joint health

is essential throughout life. It is important to

understand how diet, exercise and other lifestyle

choices can impact your bone and joint health.

Join Dr Mitra Zarrati to discover how to keep your

bones and joints healthy without Surgery. With over

15 years of dedicated experience in diet therapy,

Dr. Mitra Zarrati is a highly accomplished dietitian

whose clinical approach is rooted in a holistic and

patient-centred methodology.


Branch Date Time


Morning Movie Matinee:

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of

Harold Fry

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry is a quietly

powerful tale of love, redemption, and finding the

extraordinary in the everyday. Led by Oscar-winner

Jim Broadbent, Harold’s spontaneous 450-mile walk

to visit a dying friend becomes a moving journey of

self-discovery and hope.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 18 Feb 10.30am -12.30pm

Career, Employment and

Training Support Service

A qualified career practitioner from the Box Hill

Institute Skills and Job Centre will be available at the

Vermont South Library fortnightly on Tuesdays from

1–3pm, offering free 45-minute one-on-one career

services, including:

• Career planning sessions

• Resumé assistance

• Job search help

• Interview coaching

• Course and training information

If you’re seeking a career change, updating your

resumé applying for jobs or courses, book your free

session today!


Branch Date Time

Vermont South

Tuesdays

(fortnightly)

1.00pm – 3.00pm



LUNAR NEW YEAR

Chinese Medicine

Herbal Soup

Dr Eliza, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

practitioner, will share insights into herbal soups

and remedies for the summer–autumn season

of 2026. She will introduce the foundational

principles of TCM and guide participants through

the properties and benefits of selected herbal

medicines.

As part of the session, participants will also have

the opportunity to see, touch, and smell several

herbal medicine samples, allowing for a hands-on

learning experience that connects theory with

practice.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Mon 9 Feb 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Chinese Tea Ceremony

Join us at Doncaster Library and experience the

elegance of the Chinese Tea Ceremony. Discover

Cha Yi (Tea Art) through a live demonstration

that explores the history, culture, and traditions

of tea. Learn about different types of teas and the

mindful techniques of tea brewing, then conclude

the session with a relaxing tea tasting.


Branch Date Time


SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Native Bee Hotel Workshop

with Clancy Lester the Bee Man

Clancy is a young environmental educator, Wattle

Fellowship alumni, ABC trailblazer, and is super

passionate about native bees, the climate and

environment, indigenous culture and science

communication. Clancy runs educational workshops

on native bees and urban biodiversity. Learn about

the world of pollinators, identifying our native bees

and how to protect their habitat.

Come along and learn how to take action to protect

our native bees by creating safe havens ‘bee

hotels’ using found natural materials.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Sat 13 Dec 10.30-12.30pm


35


SUSTAINABLE LIVING

Shelter your Home:

Garden Design for Home

Comfort and Resilience

with Manningham Council

Learn how clever garden design can shelter your

home from extreme heat and storms, helping you

stay comfortable year round.

We’ll explore:

• sun angles throughout the year

• how to conduct a basic site analysis at home

• how to select shade trees, vines and wind breaks

• best plant position for summer shade while letting

the winter sun shine through for free heating in the

cooler months

• practical solutions for renters.


Book online: tinyurl.com/md4nr9pr

Branch Date Time

Doncaster Mon 2 Feb 6.00pm – 7.30pm

Electric Vehicles: Smarter

Driving and Lower Bills

Information session

with Sustainable Whitehorse

Thinking about getting an electric vehicle?

Bryce from EV Choice will walk you through key

considerations when choosing an EV over a petrol/

diesel car. Learn about the financial, environmental,

and health benefits, and how EVs fit into your

home energy plan (solar, batteries, electrification).

Understand charging at home and on the go,

addressing range anxiety and planning longer trips.

Discover which upgrades to make first and how to

future-proof your home.

We’ll also cover current EV models in Australia and

what to look for when buying new or second-hand.


Book online: events.humanitix.com/ev101

Branch Date Time



GAMES &

HOBBIES

Craft Swap

Bring along your unwanted fabric, haberdashery,

buttons, wool, lace, sewing patterns, craft books,

paints, brushes, zips, needles, cards and stamps

from your craft stash to trade with other crafters.

Spend some time browsing what others have

brought and then head home with some new

treasures.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Mon 1 Dec During opening hours

Mon 5 Jan

Mon 2 Feb

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap

All ages

During opening hours

During opening hours

Bring along your (gently used, complete) jigsaw

puzzle and swap it for a brand new one! All ages and

skill levels welcome.


Branch Date Time

Bulleen Saturdays During opening hours

Vermont South Saturdays During opening hours

Knit and Connect!

All ages

Join us for weekly catch-ups and one-off knitting

events! Knit and share ideas. Knitters of all abilities

welcome – BYO knitting.


Branch Date Time

Warrandyte Saturdays 10.30am – 1.00pm

Scrabble Club

Make new friends as you enjoy a game of Scrabble,

some fun, and a bit of competition each week.


Branch Date Time

Blackburn Fridays 1.30pm – 3.30pm

Warrandyte Thursdays 2.00pm – 4.00pm

Yarners: Craft & Chat

Join us at this drop-in style session for a morning

of crafting and conversation at the library! Bring

your own craft to work on while chatting with others

in our friendly group of crafters. Crafts of all types

welcome; needlepoint, knitting, crochet, tatting,

cross-stitch, drawing, anything at all! (Psst! You can

come along just to have a chat).


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Fridays 10.00am – 12.00pm


37

MAKERSPACE

ADULT

DECEMBER EVENTS OPEN NOW.

JANUARY EVENTS OPEN BY MIDDAY MONDAY 1 DECEMBER

FEBRUARY EVENTS OPEN BY MIDDAY FRIDAY 2 JANUARY

Maker Club

FESTIVE FUN

Embroidered

Ornaments

Join us for a drop-in, self-directed Makerspace

session! This is an opportunity to explore

and expand upon the skills you have learned,

but also to work on your own projects with

other makers in the community. Matthew

and Saskia will be on board to discuss and

workshop your creative projects in a fun,

casual setting and provide access to some

Makerspace tools and machines (if available).

Everyone welcome!


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 3 Dec 3.00pm – 4.00pm

Wed 4 Feb

Wed 18 Feb

3.00pm – 4.00pm

3.00pm – 4.00pm

Using felt and thread we’ll make and decorate

ornate hanging hearts and stars that add a

bit of homemade warmth to Christmas trees

(or anywhere else). We will provide a pattern

to follow and teach you decorative stitches to

make these simple projects look stunning. No

crafting experience necessary!


Branch Date Time


The Pines Tue 2 Dec 1.00pm – 2.30pm



makerspace adult | WHAT’S ON

Intro to Chainmaille:

Pendants

For those looking for a challenge, come along and

learn how to make ornamental chainmaille! Using

metal rings and a pair of pliers, you’ll learn how to

make a beautiful pendant.


Branch Date Time


Vinyl Stickers with Cricut

Using our Cricut machine, we’ll design and cut

custom vinyl stickers that you can take home.


NATIONAL

PUZZLE DAY

Drop In: Laser Cut Puzzles

All ages

To celebrate International Puzzle Day (a day

early), drop by to decorate your own freshly

laser cut jigsaw puzzle. Everyone is welcome!


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Wed 28 Jan 3.00pm – 4.30pm

Branch Date Time


Box Hill Fri 12 Dec 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Drop In: Laser Cut Ornaments

All ages

Drop by to learn laser cutting techniques and create

unique hanging ornaments etched into wood. All

welcome.


Branch Date Time


Macrame Pot Plant Hanger

Weave together a simple yet ornate pot plant holder

to hang your favourite pots.


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Thu 29 Jan 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Nunawading Fri 27 Feb 1.00pm – 2.30pm


39

WHAT’S ON | makerspace adult

LEGO ® Printmaking Holiday

Cards for Adults

Explore printmaking through the unlikely use of

LEGO ® pieces to create multicolour prints with ink.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Fri 5 Dec 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Adult Play: Gravitrax

Marble Run

Why do kids get all the fun? Try your hand at our

massive modular Gravitrax set and see how long we

can make our giant marble run!


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Fri 30 Jan 1.00pm – 2.30pm

E-textiles: Sewing Electronic

Circuits

Learn to make sewable circuits in this workshop that

brings together two skills rarely used:: hand-sewing

and electronics. Participants will use conductive

thread and LEDs to make their fabric designs light

up. No sewing or electronics experience required!


Branch Date Time

Introduction to Sewing

Machines: Drawstring Bags

Ever wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine?

This is the perfect staring point. In this workshop,

we’ll introduce you to the sewing machine and basic

sewing construction techniques to make your own

small drawstring pouch. No previous experience

required!


Branch Date Time



The Pines Tue 10 Feb 1.00pm – 2.30pm

Sunprints

Create striking prints using the cyanotype process

incorporating botanics, illustration, and photo

graphic negatives.


Branch Date Time



eLEARNING &

TECHNOLOGY

DECLUTTER/RESTORATION

Scanning Photos and Slides,

Converting Old Tapes

Digital Room

Digitizing your family images and videos is

simplified when using the Digital Room equipment

at Doncaster Library. Do you have old slides or

negatives that you haven’t viewed in years? Or VHS

or audio tapes? Come along and learn how to scan

your own images and to convert tapes into digital

format.


Branch Date Time


Online via

Zoom

Thu 15 Jan

11.00am – 11:45am

Doncaster Fri 20 Feb 10.00am – 11.00am

Taming your Email Inbox!

Is your email app flashing with hundreds (or

thousands!) of unread messages? You’re not alone.

In this relaxed, beginner-friendly session, we’ll

help you finally take control of your inbox. Create

simple folders to keep things tidy and learn how to

unsubscribe.

There are also tips to stay connected with friends

and family using email after holiday catchups.


Branch Date Time

Forest Hill

Community Space

Wed 28 Jan

Organising your Digital

Photos

1.00pm – 2.00pm

Are hundreds of photos taking up space on your

phone or tablet? Learn ways to declutter your device

and transfer photos to a laptop or cloud-based

storage.

We will also teach you how to set up folders and

categories for sorting and organizing your images,

as well as demonstrating how to put those photos to

great use by creating photobooks and more!


Branch Date Time

Forest Hill

Community Space

Wed 11 Feb

1.00pm – 2.00pm


41

WHAT’S ON | eLearning & Technology

DECLUTTER/RESTORATION


Legacy

Do you know what happens to your data once

you pass away? Learn how to manage your online

accounts so your social media, photos, documents,

and correspondence are handled according to your

wishes. This session will focus on setting up legacy

options for Apple, Google, and Facebook.


Branch Date Time

Online via Zoom Thu 26 Feb 10.30am – 11.30am

DIGITAL LIFE HACKS

Seniors Tech Help at

Vermont South Library

Say goodbye to tech frustrations and get free

personalised help from young professionals.

In partnership with Youngster.co, local students

will be offering dedicated one-on-one tech support.

Whether you need help setting up a new phone,

learning social media basics, transferring photos

or installing apps, our tech-savvy teenagers are

here to help.

Free, but bookings essential.


Book online: tinyurl.com/2a3tpcke

Branch Date Time

Vermont

South

Thu 30 Jan

Thu 6 Feb

Thu 13 Feb

Thu 20 Feb

Thu 27 Feb

12.30pm – 2.30pm

12.30pm – 2.30pm

12.30pm – 2.30pm

12.30pm – 2.30pm

12.30pm – 2.30pm


eLearning & Technology | WHAT’S ON

DIGITAL LIFE HACKS

FESTIVE FUN

Want to do some Online

Christmas Shopping?

Online shopping can be a great way to find a

bargain, save time, and have your Christmas

gifts delivered!

This session will give you some useful tips to

help get you started shopping online and discuss

some strategies to avoid scams.


Branch Date Time

Forest Hill

Community Space

Wed 10 Dec 1.00pm –

2.00pm

Have yourself a

Merry Little Christmas

with Canva

Hands on workshop

Discover your creativity and flair using Canva’s

free graphic design tools in this introductory

session and learn to create Christmas gift

tags, cards and party invitations for the festive

season! You are welcome to bring your USB stick

to take your creations home with you.


Branch Date Time


Recipe Apps

Learn how you can use a recipe app to organise your

favourite recipes and access them anywhere, any

time.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 11 Dec 10.30am – 11.15am

Google Lens 101

Have you ever wondered how to identify a flower,

translate a sign, or find a product just by pointing

your phone at it? Google Lens can do all that – and

more! Perfect for beginners, this hands-on session

will walk you through how to access and use Google

Lens on your smartphone or tablet. Get ready to see

the world in a whole new way!


Branch Date Time

Bulleen Fri 12 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Finding Treasures in TROVE

Learn about the TROVE website from the National

Library of Australia for searching old newspapers

and journals. Great for researching family history, the

history of houses and any and all topics of interest.


Branch Date Time

Online via Zoom Tue 6 Jan 2.00pm – 3.00pm


43


DIGITAL LIFE HACKS

Wellbeing and Health Apps

Whether you’re focused on health tracking, ramping

up your exercise routine, seeking motivation, or

craving inspiration, discover the latest apps and

websites that can guide you on your journey to

success!


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Wed 18 Feb 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Digital Journaling

Discover the art of digital journaling. Join this

workshop to get started on a daily writing and

reflecting habit that will help you record and preserve

your memories. Learn how to download an app, add

journal entries, illustrate your entries with photos,

videos, location maps and sound recordings and set

up a schedule to keep you motivated. Remember to

bring your phone/tablet and Apple ID and password.


Branch Date Time

Box Hill Thu 19 Feb 10.30am – 11.15am

eLIBRARY

eBooks and eNewspapers

Discover the range of eBooks on offer through

the Libby app. Learn how to search, download

and access the daily newspapers free of charge

through Newscan. Bring along your device, library

membership card and PIN/password.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Thu 4 Dec 10.00am – 11.00am

eLibrary: Movie Streaming

Free movies and documentaries from the library to

your device. Learn how to access movie streaming

on Beamafilm and Kanopy with your library

membership. Explore a huge collection of feature

films, series and documentaries. Enjoy movies

anywhere at any time online on your device.


Branch Date Time



eLearning & Technology | WHAT’S ON

eLIBRARY

eMagazines and

eNewspapers

Our online Library offers magazines, books,

documentaries, courses and more. In this

class, learn how to access our eMagazines and

eNewspapers on your device.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Mon 15 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Audiobooks: Listen while you

Walk, or Cook, or Drive, or…

Whether you’re out for a stroll, a drive, lounging in the

garden, or sitting back with a cuppa, audiobooks are

a wonderful way to enjoy great stories hands-free.

We’ll show you how to set up our free library apps

step-by-step – just bring your device, library card

number, and PIN/password!


Branch Date Time


Your Library, Anytime,

Anywhere

Did you know your library is always open online?

With your free library membership, you can access

eBooks, audiobooks, movies, magazines and

newspapers – anytime, anywhere, on your phone,

tablet, or computer. Our friendly librarian will show

you how easy it is to get started. Come along

and explore a world of free entertainment at your

fingertips!


Branch Date Time

Doncaster Mon 12 Jan 10.00am – 11.00am

Audiobooks and eMagazines

Come along to our free session at the Nunawading

Library. Discover how easy it is to search for and

download audiobooks and eMagazines. We will take

you through everything step by step. Bring along

your device, library membership card and PIN/

password.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Thu 15 Jan 10.00am – 11.00am

Accessing Audiobooks on

your Phone: BorrowBox and

Libby

Get lost listening to a great story over the summer

holidays. Learn how to access two terrific resources

from your library using your library membership card

and your mobile phone.


Branch Date Time

Vermont South Fri 23 Jan 3.30pm – 4.30pm


45


STAYING SAFE ONLINE

The Dark Side of AI:

Unmasking Scams, Deep

Fakes and Identity Theft

In an era where technology evolves at lightning

speed, the rise of artificial intelligence has brought

both innovation and peril.

This presentation delves into the darker aspects of

AI, focusing on how it has become a powerful tool

for scammers and identity thieves.


Branch Date Time

Nunawading Thu 18 Dec 10.30am – 11.30am

Protecting your Privacy on

Facebook

Learn how to take control of your personal

information on the world’s most popular social

media platform. We’ll guide you through key privacy

settings, show you how to manage who can see your

posts, and help you spot potential security risks.

Bring your device, Facebook login, and your

questions!


Branch Date Time

Bulleen Thu 5 Feb 10.30am – 11.30am

Now I’m You: How I Stole

Your Identity

Every time we go online, we leave a virtual trail about

who we are, what we are doing and potentially where

we are going.

In this presentation, Tom Mason will demonstrate

how easy it is to hack someone’s identity, uncover

sensitive information about them and how this can

potentially be used against them.

While this can be a confronting presentation, our

goal is not to scare you, but to enlighten you about

how you can follow some simple steps to be safer

online.


Branch Date Time



INDEX | WHAT’S ON

CHILDREN &

FAMILIES

Multicultural storytime

Arabic Storytime 6

Greek Storytime 7

Italian Storytime 6

Mandarin Storytime 6

Persian Storytime 6

Lunar New Year

Bilingual Storytime 5

Big Summer Read

Launch 8

Prize Party 9

End of year fun!

Children’s Christmas

Craft: Layered Santa Face 10

Christmas Craft: Gnome

Sweet Gnome 10

Christmas Storytime 10

International Day of Women

and Girls in Science

Robogals: Spike Prime 11

Robogals: Vex Robots 11

General programs

Auslan Storytime 7

Baby Karaoke 4

Book Ninjas 7

Preschool Storytime 5

LEGO ® Club 7

Tiny Tots 5

MAKERSPACE

YOUTH

Ambient Music Jam 14

Drawing Code: Ozobots 13

Foamboard Printmaking:

Cards 13

LEGO ® Printmaking

Holiday Cards 14

LEGO ® Stop Motion

Animation 14

MakeDo: Articulated

Grabbers 15

Mega Marble Run 15

Origami Fidget Toys:

Flexagons 15

Recycled Clothing for

LEGO ® Minifigures 15

Simple Electronic Circuits 14

YOUTH 12–17

YEARS

Box Hill Study Support

Program 16

Role-playing Games 16

Strategy Board Games 16

Study Support Program

ONLINE! 16

YA Write Club 16

ENGLISH LANGUAGE

EAL Reading Group:

Early Learners 17

EAL Reading Group:

Intermediate 17

English Conversation

Circle 17

WRITING &

LITERATURE

Author talks

Miss Caroline Bingley 18

Planting for Native Birds,

Bees and Butterflies 19

Restore: How Green

Spaces Support Human

Restoration 19

Twelve Golden Gifts 18

Why Do Birds Sing? 20

Charles Dickens Day

Charles Dickens’s Secret

Lovechild 20

Writing workshop

Writing Compelling

Personal Stories 21

General programs

Book Chat 21

Evening Book Chat 21

LGBTQIA+ Social/Book

Discussion Group 22

Shakespeare and Co. 22

LIFESTYLE &

LEARNING

International Day of People

With Disabilities

Accessible Yoga for all

Abilities 23

Autism and Ageing 23

Ageing Well

Dry Flower Cards 25

Life!: Lifestyle and

Prevention 24

Navigating the Aged Care

Pathway 24

Understanding My Aged

Care 24

16 Days of Activism

Financial Wellbeing 24

Creative Living

Chess Fundamentals 27

Fermentation for Gut

Health 26

Leather Workshop: Make

your own Bookmark 27

Mindful Doodling 26

Mosaic Coasters 26

Paper Cutting 27

Persian Herbs and Spices 25

Stone Painting 27

Festive Fun

Crochet Christmas

Wreath Workshop 25

International Migrants Day

Cooking Class:

A Mezze Feast 26

Library Lovers’ Day

Bookmark Creations 27

Libraries After Dark

African Dance 28

Bollywood Dance for

Wellbeing 28

Mindfulness Meditation 29

Movie Night: Flow 29

Movie Night: Tracks 29

Pilates for Beginners 29

Tai Chi 29

Yoga for Beginners 29

Give the Gift of Reading

Photo with Santa 30

Emergency Preparedness

Be Ready, Stay Safe 31

Heat Health 31

Prepare to Leave in an

Emergency 31

Gardening & Nature

Kokedama 32

Vertical Gardening 32

Health & Wellbeing

Branching Out: Family

History Research 33

Career, Employment and

Training Support Service 34

Keeping your Bones and

Joints Healthy without

Surgery 34

Laughter Yoga 33

Morning Movie Matinee:

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of

Harold Fry 34

Speech Therapy 33

Summer Safety: Secure

your Home. Enjoy your

Holiday 33

Lunar New Year

Chinese Medicine Herbal

Soup 35

Chinese Tea Ceremony 35

Sustainable Living

Electric Vehicles 36

Native Bee Hotel

Workshop 35

Shelter your Home 36

GAMES & HOBBIES

Craft Swap 37

Jigsaw Puzzle Swap 37

Knit and Connect! 37

Scrabble Club 37

Yarners: Craft & Chat 37

MAKERSPACE

ADULT

Adult Play: Gravitrax

Marble Run 40

Drop In: Laser Cut

Ornaments 39

E-textiles: Sewing

Electronic Circuits 40

Intro to Chainmaille:

Pendants 39

Introduction to Sewing

Machines: Drawstring

Bags 40

LEGO ® Printmaking

Holiday Cards for Adults 40

Macrame Pot Plant Hanger 39

Maker Club 38

Sunprints 40

Vinyl Stickers with Cricut 39

Festive Fun

Embroidered Ornaments 38

National Puzzle Day

Drop In: Laser Cut Puzzles 39

ELEARNING &

TECHNOLOGY

Declutter/Restoration

Digital Journaling 44


Legacy 42


Photos 41

Scanning Photos and

Slides, Converting Old

Tapes 41

Taming your Email Inbox! 41

Digital Life Hacks

Finding Treasures in

TROVE 43

Google Lens 101 43

Recipe Apps 43

Seniors Tech Help at

Vermont South Library 42

Wellbeing and Health Apps 44

Festive Fun

Have yourself a Merry

Little Christmas with

Canva 43

Want to do some Online

Christmas Shopping? 43

eLibrary

Accessing Audiobooks

on your Phone:

BorrowBox and Libby 45

Audiobooks and

eMagazines 45

Audiobooks: Listen while

you Walk, or Cook, or

Drive, or… 45

eBooks and eNewspapers 44

eLibrary: Movie Streaming 44

eMagazines and

eNewspapers 45

Your Library, Anytime,

Anywhere 45

Staying Safe Online

Now I’m You: How I Stole

Your Identity 46

Protecting your Privacy

on Facebook 46

The Dark Side of AI:

Unmasking Scams, Deep

Fakes and Identity Theft 46


47

Printed on recycled paper using plant based ink

open for discovery

Contact us

Blackburn 9896 8400

Box Hill 9896 4300

Bulleen 9896 8450

Doncaster 9877 8500

Nunawading 9872 8600

The Pines 9877 8550

Vermont Sth 9872 8650

Warrandyte 9895 4250

info@wml.vic.gov.au

www.wml.vic.gov.au

What's On Summer 2025-2026

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