Activities
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Free activities for primary school children are held at Merri-bek Libraries.
Lego builders
Come along and build, build, build! One hour of fun-packed free-play LEGO!
This session is for primary school aged children only. ALL children need to be accompanied by a parent/carer.
Fawkner Library, 2nd Tuesday of the month, 4pm
Curiosity Crew
A weekly STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) program encouraging children to learn through play and exploration, with the use of robotics, programming, digital technologies and creative arts.
This program is for children aged 8 years and over
For more information on sessions see our events on our Merri-bek Libraries Eventbrite page
Reading Challenges
BIG Summer Read
BIG Summer Read is a summer reading program aimed at primary school children, but anyone under 18 is welcome to enter. It encourages children to keep reading over the summer holidays.
The 2023 Big Summer Read runs from 1 December to 31 January. Register through Beanstack here.
How to participate in the Big Summer Read
Download the Beanstack app or log in to Beanstack using a web browser. If you’re a new user you will need to create a Beanstack account.
Read 10 books between 1 December 2023 and 31 January 2024.
Log your books in Beanstack to complete the challenge.
Will there be a paper-based alternative for those unable to use technology?
Yes! a printed reading log from any Merri-bek Library.
Please note that only participants registered through Beanstack will be eligible for the statewide prize draw. Prizes will not be awarded to anyone who does not meet the eligibility criteria.
What are the prizes at Merri-Bek Libraries?
- LEGO City Express Passenger Train - 60337
- LEGO Creator Exotic Parrot - 31136
- LEGO Creator Cosy House - 31139
- LEGO City Space Ride Amusement Truck - 60313
- LEGO Creator Beach Camper Van - 31138
Prizes will be randomly drawn after 31 January 2024.
Will there be a state prize?
Yes!
When participants complete the challenge they are automatically placed in a draw to win. At the conclusion of the program we will draw prize winners from 4 categories based on age:
0-4 years
5-8 years
9-12 years
13-18 years
Winners will receive a Book Pack each donated by James Bennett!
Participants in the Big Summer Read must be under the age of 18, reside in Victoria and must be able to collect their prize from a specified library branch.
Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge
The Premiers’ Reading Challenge is a fun way of encouraging children to read. Premiers Reading Challenge books are easy to find. Just look for the colour coded stickers on the book spine. You can also search for books, by age category, using the library website or on the Education Victoria website.
Short story competition 2023
The 2023 short story competition has now ended. Check back for information about next year's competition.
CBCA Awards
The Children’s Book Council of Australia presents annual awards to books of literary merit, for outstanding contribution to Australian children’s literature. Every year Merri-bek Libraries celebrates these books at storytimes.
Watch the special Shortlist announcement on the Children's book council of Australia Youtube channel.
Winner and Honour Books: Announced at noon AEST on the third Friday in August.
For more information visit the Childrens Book Council of Australia website.