Have a novel summer at local libraries

Getting lost in a book is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon but there are plenty of other activities on offer at Christchurch City Libraries over the long summer break.

There’s a programme of holiday fun at local libraries including Minecraft Game Zone sessions and a Playstation 4 Tournament for gaming enthusiasts, chances to make Christmas cards and crafts, 3D printing demonstrations, stop motion animation classes and kite making workshops. Visit Christchurch City Libraries for information on days, times and locations. 

Christchurch's libraries have plenty to keep the kids entertained over the school holidays.

The libraries are also holding a Summertime Reading Challenge that ask kids and adults to complete at least five challenges – including watching a film inspired by a book, listening to a story, reading outside and reading to your pet or soft toy - before they go in the draw to win prizes.

Some of the challenges can be ticked off during a visit to the Botanic Gardens where five favourite books by Kiwi authors have been hidden away for READiscover the Gardens (7 to 27 January 2019). Grab a map from the Visitor Centre or download one.

The Summertime Reading Challenge is open to all ages and postcards can be picked up from any library. 

Christchurch City Council Head of Libraries Carolyn Robertson says the libraries have a fantastic range of free services and activities.

 “No matter what you have planned for the holidays or what the weather is like, good books and a relaxing place to keep the family entertained are always welcome. Visiting your library – and taking up the Summertime Reading Challenge - is a wonderful way to keep kids reading and learning over the summer break.”  

A festive family event to look forward to is A Christmas Story at South Library, a Storytime event where kids can wear their pyjamas or dress up in their favourite costume. Bring a rug and picnic outside South Library (weather permitting) on 18 December from 5pm.

A highlight for gamers aged 10 and over will be the eSports 2019 CCL Rocket League Tournament which opens on 9 January. Tournaments held at different libraries before the finals at Tūranga in the youth space on 30 January.

On Saturday 9 February the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra will perform at Ōrauwhata Bishopdale Library and Community Centre as part of CSO Presents: Music Trails through the Library.

The newly-opened Tūranga continues to be a huge attraction for the central city and it has a Signature Programme of events to highlight its new spaces and resources.

This includes the Our Painted Stories exhibition celebrating Canterbury settings in children’s books continues at the Southbase Gallery on Level 2 until 17 January.

A Canterbury Colours workshop is being held with Celia Wilson showing how you can make paint from rocks, clay and plant materials. There is a workshop for children on 13 January from 10am until 12pm and another for adults from 12.30 until 4pm.

Tūranga is also hosting a Pūtoi – Family Learning Time with Gifts for Christmas showing how to create gifts based on traditional Maori art on Sunday 16 December from 1pm until 3pm on Level 2.

Information on holiday opening hours can be found here.