From the very first day of life, babies learn by looking and listening. Childhood, particularly the first few years of a child's life, is a very important period for the development of language skills. Parents and carers can play a unique role in this development by talking and singing to their children and sharing books, songs and rhymes in a happy, loving environment.
As children grow, reading remains a crucial factor in their success in education and life. It's important that parents continue to demonstrate the value and enjoyment of reading by encouraging regular reading times, and allowing children to see them reading too. A love of reading can also be encouraged through regular visits to the library where children can browse a huge range of books and choose their own to borrow.
The Library provides a wide range of activities and resources for babies to young adults. These include:
- Books
- Magazines
- CDs
- DVDs
- Multi-media packs
- Literacy resources
- Collections of HSC resources including study guides, Board of Studies publications and materials for use by senior high school students.
- Online stories via Bookflix
- Free online homework help with Your Tutor for Year 4-17 students
- Free links to online databases
- Toy Libraries
- Small collection of downloadable e-books and audiobooks
We aim to provide the best resources for all ages.
Remember: if you can't see it, ask for it! We welcome purchase requests.
Activities include:
- Holiday activities during the school holidays for all ages.
- Storytimes for preschoolers during school terms
- Baby Book Time
- Baby Bounce
- Competitions
- Class Visits
- Author Visits
- Exhibitions
Contact the Children's Librarian for further information and to check the current programs.
School holiday programs are generally aimed at school aged children (as we provide Storytime for preschoolers each week during term) with a literacy based theme. We aim to promote what the library has to offer as well as provide a meaningful activity for young people. These activities give young people the opportunity to meet others, to learn or experience something different and to share some fun.
Some activities are fully supervised while others require carers to stay. Bookings and a small charge may be required. It is a good idea to book early and we appreciate knowing if you are not able to attend a session. These activities are aimed at Library Members and proof of current membership may be asked for.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child is starting school. Do you keep readers?
The materials available range in levels of reading age and interest. We do not keep whole sets of readers as schools do, but have a wide range of books available in bagged sets, on CD and individually.
How are the picture books arranged?
The picture book collection has a broad range of reading levels and interest but is aimed at preschoolers to primary aged children. The books are colour coded according to the author's surname. A yellow dot means that the author is Australian. Suggested reading lists are available.
Are there books for babies?
Yes. The board books provide colour and interest with strong links between text and pictures. Also available are Baby Book Time Packs that include two board books, a music CD and a rhyme sheet.
What is the Parenting Collection?
This collection of books, magazines and DVDs provides practical advice and support to parents whether their children are in nappies or doing their HSC.
Can my child have their own library card?
Yes and this is a great way to start their library journey. When joining as a junior borrower, they will need to have a guarantor. Remember that with a library card, young borrowers can access Your Tutor, newspapers, databases and online stories from home.
What homework help is available?
Our libraries offer staff assistance, internet access, study space, access to online assistance via Your Tutor and online information as well as a huge collection of books, DVDs, study guides and resources to borrow.
What newspapers do you keep for school assignments?
Our collections goes back to 1882 and comes in a variety of formats. For details click here
Why are libraries called the 'gateways to information'?
Nowadays a lot of information is available off site and our job as librarians is to help parents and students to access information in a variety of ways. Students require information in many formats and we can help them do this. We are here to help!
The library is a community focus and is used to distribute local information. Our notice boards and staff will tell you about up and coming community events and local support resources.
Can you sugggest any helpful websites to help with literacy and numeracy skills in primary school?
The National Literacy and Numeracy Week website has some great games and activities for primary aged children as well as advice for parents
Any suggestions for safe Internet use?
Cybersmart provides activities, resources and practical advice to help young kids, kids, teens and parents safely enjoy the online world.
Developed by theAustralian Communications and Media Authority, Cybersmart is part of the Australian Government’s cybersafety program.