Summer libraries

GREATER Dandenong’s libraries have organised a host of exciting activities for the school holiday period.
One of the highlights is the Summer Reading Club, bringing together hundreds of local children in an initiative to encourage reading throughout the warmer months. Club members will receive a free kit packed full of activities and the opportunity to win fantastic prizes. The theme this year is Superheroes Read!
Members who read 10 books during summer will be in the running for some amazing prizes when they return the entry forms found in their summer reading kits. Prizes in previous years have included bicycles, DVD players and skateboards.
Adults are also encouraged to participate in Hot Nights, Cool Books. This summer program aims to encourage adults and families to read together for enjoyment during the holidays. Visit your local library to find out more.
There’s so much to see this summer with Wild Action – Rockpool Discovery, The Magic Punch and Judy Show, Afloat in a Boat! with Mike Jackson, Wild Action – Australian Animals and free entertainment from the amazing performing poodles of Circus Dogs.
The summer holiday events calendar:
• Tuesday 8 January, 11am-noon, Springvale Library: Wild Action – Rockpool Discovery. The ocean comes to you in this marvellous, interactive presentation from the Wild Action team. Seahorses, crabs, octopuses and starfish are just a few of the live creatures you’ll be able to see and learn about. For ages six to 12 years; $3.30 per child. Book early as places are strictly limited to 30 children.
• Thursday 10 January, 11-11.45am, Dandenong Library: The Magic Punch and Judy Show. Come along for some magic tricks, a classic puppet show and lots of laughs for the mums and dads as well. Family entertainment doesn’t come much better than this. For ages five to 10 years; $3.30 per child.
• Tuesday 15 January, 11-11.45am, Springvale Library: Afloat in a Boat! Mike Jackson presents a magical musical muddle of marine melodies, tall tales, nautical knots and singable songs of the sea. It features 15 musical instruments, including one made on, one played on and two shaped like boats. For ages five to 10 years; $3.30 per child.
• Thursday 17 January, 11am-noon, Dandenong Library: Wild Action – Australian Animals. Learn about native wildlife with the Wild Action team. Get up close and personal with real live crocodiles, pythons, turtles, frogs and lizards. For ages six to 12 years; $3.30 per child. Book early as places are strictly limited to 30 children.
• Wednesday 23 January, 2-3.30pm, Dandenong Library: Summer Reading Club prize presentation with Circus Dogs. Free entertainment from the amazing performing poodles of Circus Dogs followed by the presentation of prizes to the Summer Reading Club winners. For ages five and over. Free event.
Venues: Dandenong Library, Stuart Street, Dandenong, 9238 1489; Springvale Library, 411 Springvale Road, Springvale, 9239 5398.