Library Programs and Events
As COVID-19 restrictions have eased in SA, the library has been working on how to safely bring programs and events back to the community. We are looking at ways to offer fresh new programming that meets current needs and is responsive to conditions. This includes take home activities such as our Take and Make activity packs and our new Borrow Bags with themed equipment loans. When possible, we are hosting events and workshops as opportunities arise and conditions remain safe. Bookings are essential for all Library events, for contact tracing purposes. Please see our Eventbrite page for our upcoming library events - click here.
Library Programs - Children
Preschool Storytime is a time for you and your pre-schooler to share stories, songs, games and simple craft making activities. Each themed session comes with take-home ideas for you to continue with your family.
Craft-it! is an after-school program that aims to develop children's creative skills, encouraging participants to experiment with arts and crafts. Activities are designed for 5–12 year olds and may at times require adult assistance.
Are you keen on coding? Here at the Gawler Public Library, we are a Digital Destination Library for you to participate in the ‘Learn to Speak Robot’ portion of the Commissioner’s Digital Challenge. All our computers are FREE to use for up to 90 minutes each day with your library membership, so you can come in and practice your skills at either of our two locations. We also run holiday program sessions during the July School Holidays. If you’re interested check out the link for the Commissioner’s Digital Challenge or give us a call on 8522 9213 or click the link to see our events calendar.
During the School Holidays the Library provides a range of free activities for children and their families. Providing a variety of resources to keep you entertained and engaged at home. These include Take and Make activity packs, school holiday guides, information and activities posted online to Facebook, and our new Borrow Bag themed equipment loans. Check out our Facebook promotions or our library publications for all the details.
A state funded program that challenges young readers to read 12 books between April and September each year. Gawler Library supports the Premier’s Reading Challenge by providing an extensive collection of age-appropriate books from the PRC website lists.
You can search our catalogue here for PRC titles by using the following keywords:
- Premier’s Reading Challenge
- PRC R – 2
- PRC 3 – 5
- PRC 6 – 9
- PRC mature
National Simultaneous Storytime Is an annual campaign that aims to encourage more young Australians to read and enjoy. It is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using a current Australian children's book The Gawler Library invites participation from local schools, kindergartens and child care centres. Please contact the library to get involved.
Each year the Children’s Book Council of Australia celebrates Australian authors and illustrators in Children’s Book Week. It is the longest running children’s literary event in Australia.
State Library’s Summer Reading Club is a free public program delivered through public libraries and Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) that encourages a love of reading and continued literacy skills development in children and young people during the summer holidays.
Library Programs - Adults
The Library will from time to time host visiting authors to speak and launch their books. Check our Social Media links for events.
Learning and information programs aimed at adults. Program includes community presenters, local service facilitators, interactive activities providing opportunities for learning and creativity. Contact the library for more information.
Library Programs - Digital Literacy
Be Connected at the Gawler Public Library!
An opportunity for keen older members of our community to learn about technology at their own pace with staff support. All courses are free and there is no limit to how many you can do. We use Be Connected, an Australia wide initiative empowering all Australians to thrive in a digital world. This program contains a wealth of information, tutorials, videos, hints & tips to get you learning and keep you in the know. You don’t need any equipment or prior knowledge, just click the link, choose the topics you’re interested in and learn at your own pace.
If you’d like to find out more about the Be Connected program click this link.
Be Connected at the Gawler Public Library with our Digital Literacy Information Webinars!
Would you like to know more about the digital world? Live technology presentations with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Topics available - All you need to know about data and public WiFi, Safer online shopping and banking, Can you spot a scam?, Staying safe on Facebook and more to come... No need to bring anything. Choose your topic, book your spot and get your technological questions answered. If you’d like to find out more about the Be Connected program click this link.
Library Programs - for all
The Friends of Gawler Library host 2 biennial writing competitions; The Gawler Poetry Competition (even years) and the Gawler Short Story Competition (odd years). Both competitions are open to residents of South Australia and prizes are awarded in the categories of Adult, Youth and Children.
Library Lovers’ Day is an opportunity for you to celebrate all things Library with us through a range of activities that include ‘Blind date a Book’, raffles, competitions and displays.
