It's an August of scien-terrific proportions with Libraries ACT


Released 03/08/2018

We’re more than halfway through 2018 but there’s no slowing down for Libraries ACT as we rocket our way towards the end of the year.

We ‘wuthered’ the temperatures throughout July and now August is putting on a show with National Science Week, Children’s Book Week and a number of author talks to encourage library members to bounce out of their home and into their local library.

“About two million visitors walk through the doors of our nine branches each year and at Libraries ACT we are passionate about creating memorable experiences and engaging programs and events that appeal,” said Director of Libraries ACT Vanessa Little.

August will be an explosion of all things scientific with National Science Week celebrated from Saturday
11 August through to Sunday 19 August 2018. This year’s theme is ‘Game Changers and Change Makers’ and Libraries ACT has a number of events for a variety of ages.

“It wouldn’t be science week without an explosion experiment and Dr Graham is helping us deliver for little Einstein’s aged over seven. Learn about the science of pressure, burning, states of matter and plenty more as you discover how to tame the [explosion] beast at Gungahlin Library on Wednesday 8 August and Erindale Library the following Tuesday, 14 August from 4 pm.

“Science fiction is always popular and we’ve invited award winning author, Ian McHugh, to Gungahlin Library on Wednesday 15 August to help us understand what makes a good science fiction story. He’ll be providing tips and tricks and there will be some practical exercises so make sure you’ve got your writing materials with you to start creating the 21st Century Frankenstein. Other programs include The Writing of Science with Professor Joan Leach, The Science of Writing with local author Lucy Neave, and The Science of Happiness with Rhian Williams.

A new book by author Chris Hammer hits shelves in August and is generating a lot of buzz. Library members will have an opportunity to hear from him at Civic Library on Wednesday 22 August, ahead of appearing at the Canberra Writers’ Festival.

“Budding writers across Canberra will enjoy hearing from ACT Book of the Year Award winner and journalist, Chris Hammer, discussing his latest crime thriller, Scrublands, his inspiration and his writing method,” said Ms Little.

Children’s Book Week is also an important week across Australia, running from 18-24 August 2018. This year’s theme is ‘Find Your Treasure’ and Libraries ACT is encouraging you to do just that.

“We have lots of wonderful Australian picture books and novels for children to borrow from the library including the three books we’re showcasing during Children’s Book Week; Florette by Anna Walker, Boy by Phil Cummings and The Sloth Who Came to Stay by Margaret Wild.

“In 2017-18 more than 81,000 people participated in our library programs and we’re keen to see this number jump higher. Visit our website, have a look at the August programs and events and head on down to your local branch to take a look. There really is something for everyone,” concluded Ms Little.

All Libraries ACT programs and events are free, however bookings are essential as places are limited. For more information on the variety of programs and events and to book, visit www.library.act.gov.au or call 6205 9000.

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