ReadOn: your monthly dose of library news :books:

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Hello library member,

Welcome to the September edition of ReadOn, your monthly eNewsletter from Moonee Valley Libraries.

News

Official Ministerial Opening of Ascot Vale Library

Ascot Vale Library had it's official opening ceremony to celebrate the new refurbished building. The Moonee Valley CEO and Mayor, along with Honourable Nick Staikos, Minister for Local Government and Consumer Affairs, Honourable Danny Pearson, Minister for Finance, Economic Growth and Jobs, and the member for Essendon, and Angela Savage, CEO of Public Libraries Victoria all gave a warm welcome to the new library.

We can't wait for you to visit and explore the newly transformed space.

This project is supported by Moonee Valley City Council and the Victorian Government, through the Living Libraries Infrastructure Program and the Changing Places Program.

Community Languages

New Community Languages webpages

Did you know you can borrow books, magazines, and DVDs for children and adults in Arabic, Chinese, French, Greek, Italian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese?

You can browse all of these collections on our new Community Languages webpages in the Browse & Borrow section of the Moonee Valley Libraries website.

The pages have been translated so you can see the information in your language and English. Just click the button at the top of the page to switch between languages.

See the newest physical and digital titles and click straight through to borrow titles in your language.

Explore Community Languages

Young Adult Reads

September is Victorian Youth Fest, recognising the contributions and achievements of young people aged 12 to 25 and the impact they have on their communities. To celebrate, our staff have handpicked some of their favourite young adult novels and graphic novels. Find the full list on our website.

A way home by Emily Brewin

The Skin I'm In

One by one they disappear by Mike Lucas

Emerging Writers' Festival

11-18 September 2025

Moonee Valley Libraries is delighted to partner with Emerging Writers' Festival to showcase local emerging artists and connecting writing communities and their audiences through a series of workshops and panel events.

Panel discussion: Plotting the path

Panel discussion: Plotting the Path

with Sean Fallon, Kayla Morton and Sam Robert

Where does a creative journey start? Is it better to outline every detail, or dive in and discover it as you go?

Join three writers as they explore the different approaches to starting a project. With insights on the rewards and pitfalls of planning versus improvisation, this discussion offers practical wisdom and fresh perspectives to help you get started, and keep going.

Sam Merrifield Library
Thursday 11 September, 6pm - 7pm

Unlikely Authors workshop

Unlikely Authors

workshop with Ivy Crago

If your favourite coffee mug could talk to you, what would it say? Does your thrifted sweater have a history that you don’t know about? What do the streetlights see on rainy evenings?

This whimsical workshop will teach you how to use everyday objects and spaces as sources of inspiration in your writing, encouraging you to think outside the box, let go of logic, and allow your imagination to take centre stage.

Flemington Library
Saturday 13 September, 11am - 12pm

Drawn Together: A Comic Artist' Roundtable

Drawn Together: A Comic Artists' Roundtable

with Ariel Ries and Kelly Bull

Be part of a candid conversation with local comic artists as they share insights into navigating the often opaque and competitive world of comics publishing. From agents and advances to career paths and creative autonomy, this roundtable explores both the personal and systemic challenges artists face.

Expect honest discussion on labor issues, shifting industry attitudes, and the evolving role of traditional publishers. Whether you’re an aspiring comics artist or lover of the form, connect with fellow patrons of this fascinating creative field.

Ascot Vale Library
Tuesday 16 September, 6pm - 7pm

Bookings for these events can be made via the Emerging Writers' Festival website.

What's On

Mend your clothes by hand

Mend Your Clothes by Hand

Learn how to sew on buttons, fix small holes, and hand-sew basic hems using simple darning methods and ladder stitching. Hand stitching kits provided. Beginners welcome. Facilitated by Amanda Loschiavo from Melbourne Fashion Lab.

Sam Merrifield

Monday 8 September, 6pm - 8pm

Vertical gardening

Vertical Gardening

Join us in learning the ins-and-outs of making your own vertical garden using DIY and recycled materials. Topics covered include construction, installation and irrigation methods. Presented by Scott Hitchins.

Niddrie Library

Tuesday 9 September, 6pm - 8pm

A history of Flemington racewear

A History of Flemington Racewear

The history of racewear is almost as long as the history of racing, and long before Fashions on the Field was introduced in 1962, Melburnians were dressing mostly elegantly, sometimes colourfully and occasionally wackily, for these important annual events. Join fashion historian and author Nicole Jenkins for an illustrated look at the impact of weather, fashion changes and London models on our local culture.

Sam Merrifield Library
Tuesday 23 September, 7pm - 8pm

Puzzle and chat

Puzzle and Chat

Share conversation and a cuppa while you work together on jigsaw puzzles. It’s the perfect way to unwind and meet new friends. Ages 18+. All puzzle lovers welcome, including beginners. No booking required.

Niddrie Library

Saturday 13 September, 12pm - 3pm

Breast screening info session

Breast Screening info session

Early breast cancer detection saves lives. Breast screens are recommended every two years and screening is free. BreastScreen Victoria’s information session will highlight the importance of routine breast screening and what to expect during a screen.

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre
Thursday 18 September, 11am - 12pm

Hearing Australia free hearing tests

Free Hearing Tests

Have you had your hearing tested in the last 12 months? Hearing Australia is providing free hearing tests at Moonee Valley Libraries. Book a 15-minute slot for a test and consultation.

For those already wearing hearing aids this is an opportunity to have a conversation about any concerns you might have.

These tests are for adults only.

Niddrie Library
Thursday 4 September, 10am - 3pm

My Aged Care info session

My Aged Care info session

Have a question about My Aged Care services and support? Attend an information session run by Council’s Aged Care Navigation Officer, and have your questions answered. Light refreshments will be provided.

Call (03) 9243 1940 to book if you cannot do so online.

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre
Friday 19 September, 10.30am - 12pm

Scrabble Group

Scrabble Group

Get together once a month for some fun and friendly competition all while building your vocabulary. Come alone or with a friend. No experience needed. All levels welcome.

Niddrie Library
Thursday 25 September, 9.30am - 11.30am

Centrelink Q&As

Centrelink Q&As

Do you have a question about Centrelink services like payments, Aged Care or myGov? Book a 30-minute one-on-one session with an expert from Services Australia who can point you in the right direction.

Niddrie Library
Thursday 11 September, 1pm-3pm

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre
Thursday 18 September, 1pm-3pm

Sam Merrifield Library

Wednesday 24 September, 10am-12pm

Film screenings at the library

Film Screenings at the Library

Join us for free film screenings. In honor of Are You OK? Day, we’ll be showing Poison, a thought-provoking film about a couple reunited years after a tragedy, stirring up old pain and memories of their past love. At a later date, catch Blaze, a moving story of a young girl coping with the impact of a traumatic event.

Plus, as part of our Classic Film Matinee series, don’t miss the gripping thriller Rear Window.

Kids Corner

All school holiday events open for bookings at 10am Monday 15 September unless otherwise stated. Set an alarm so you don't miss out!

Recycled Craft

Recycled Craft

It’s not rubbish, it’s whatever you want it to be. Dive into a pile of rescued recycling to build anything your imagination can dream up. Ages 5-12.

Sam Merrifield Library
Monday 22 September, 10.30am - 11.30am

Niddrie Library

Tuesday 23 September, 10.30am-11.30am

Wooden Star Weaving

Decorate a wooden star with various drawing materials and use the art of weaving with wool to create a gorgeous hanging ornament. Ages 5-12.

Ascot Vale Library
Monday 22 September, 10.30am - 11.30am

Magic Wand Nature Craft

Turn fallen twigs, shimmering ribbons, bio-friendly glitter and glue into a magic wand. All supplies (and plenty of library magic) are provided, so just bring your sense of wonder. Ages 3-12.

Sam Merrifield Library
Monday 24 September, 10.30am - 11.30am

LEGO Spike

LEGO Spike

Do you love LEGO? Do you like to experiment? Unlock the magic of motion and learn coding basics with our specialised LEGO Spike sets. Ages 6-12.

Flemington Library
Monday 22 September, 2pm - 3.30pm

Code Your Own Bracelet

In this fun activity you will discover how computers use binary code, all while creating your own beaded bracelets with secret messages. Ages 5-12.

Sam Merrifield Library
Monday 29 September, 10.30am - 11.30am

Stop Motion Animation

Learn the basics of stop motion animation. Unleash your creativity to craft your own story and try out a variety of animation techniques. Ages 8-12.

Niddrie Library
Tuesday 30 September, 10.30am - 11.30am

Family movie screening

Family Movie Screenings: Dog Man

After a policeman and his police dog are fused together to turn into Dog Man, he must stop the villainous Petey the Cat from cloning himself and creating an evil kitten, doubling his evil abilities. Based on Dav Pilkey’s Dog Man series. Ages 5-12.

94 mins, rated PG.

Session times 10.30am.

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre

Tuesday 23 September

Flemington Library
Wednesday 24 September

Ascot Vale Library

Thursday 25 September

Niddrie Library

Friday 3 October

Sam Merrifield Library
Friday 3 October

Bedtime storytimes

Bedtime Storytimes

Come to the library for a special evening performance by ABC Kids artist and Disney Theatrical performer, Jemma Armstrong. Pyjamas and plushies are encouraged. Ages 2-7.

Sam Merrifield Library
Tuesday 30 September, 6pm

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre
Thursday 2 October, 6pm

Linkedin Learning

Level Up with LinkedIn Learning

Boost your career for free with LinkedIn Learning. Access expert-led courses in business, technology, and the creative industries. All you need is your library card and PIN.

Explore Learning Apps

Young People

Young Voices, Big Stories

Young Voices, Big Stories: Workshop with Kayla Morton

Calling all young writing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer fantasy, romance, dystopia, or real-life drama, shape your voice and sharpen your skills in the young adult genre. Through writing exercises, group discussion, and practical tips, explore what makes young adult fiction powerful and personal. Ages 14-17.

Sam Merrifield Library
Tuesday 16 September, 6.30 - 7.30pm

Game Off!

Come and show off your skills in a Nintendo Switch Smash Bros Ultimate video game tournament.

For young people aged 12 years and over. All games rated PG.

Prizes to be won.

Avondale Heights Library & Learning Centre
Thursday 25 September, 1pm - 5pm

Virtual Reality Gaming for Teens

The future is here in Moonee Valley with virtual reality! Try our VR headsets on for size and experience the brave new world of 3D gaming. While you wait for your turn, take our Nintendo Switches for a spin. For young people aged 12 years and over.

Flemington Library
Tuesday 30 September, 2pm - 3pm

and 3pm-4pm.

News from Moonee Valley City Council

Velveteen Rabbit

Velveteen Rabbit at the Clocktower Centre

Velveteen Rabbit is a stunning reimagining of the beloved 100-year-old tale, filled with humour, emotion, and interactive fun.

Created by renowned children’s theatre makers Born in a Taxi, this live performance mixes physical theatre with video, projections and audience interaction to create a show that’s touching, funny and completely one-of-a-kind.

Perfect for school holiday planning!

Clocktower Centre

Saturday 27 September, 11am & 2pm

To view a full list of upcoming library events and programs, visit our events page.

Thanks for reading.

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Moonee Valley City Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which Moonee Valley is located – the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People of the Kulin Nation; and we pay respect to their Spirits, Ancestors, Elders and their Community members past and present. Council also extends this respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples who call Moonee Valley home.

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Moonee Valley Libraries
483 Keilor Road Niddrie Victoria Australia 3042
Phone: +61 3 9243 1900