Woollahra Libraries in Sydney offers three central locations within the picturesque Woollahra Municipal Council.

Woollahra Library at Double Bay is a three-level community hub, offering a quiet study space, interactive kid zones and buzzing event spaces.
The library combines the latest technology with a range of exciting programs and services in a beautiful space filled with greenery.

Paddington Library is located in the historic Town Hall on bustling Oxford Street. This branch offers a modern and comfortable space to browse the collection, attend programs like our After-Hours Film Club or use the small meeting space to work.

Watsons Bay Library looks out onto beautiful Sydney Harbour, a compact and welcoming space that feels like a community loungeroom. In addition to the collection, members can enjoy our lively children’s programs or listen to guest speakers as part of our Sunset Sessions.

Good Reading asked the librarians what they’re reading.

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ERIN
Digital Innovation Officer

What are you reading now?

Translations by Jumaana Abdu

Why did you choose this book?

I read a glowing review of it in ArtsHub and thought I’d better see for myself if it was worth all five stars. It sounded like it had some strong female characters, and a few themes I could sink my teeth into.

What’s it about?

Aliya and Sakina, a Muslim mother and daughter establish a new sense of identity in rural NSW as they escape from and shed a former life of constraint. Their stories intersect with the local imam’s story when he begins working on their property, and with Hana, Aliyah’s childhood best friend with a storied past of her own. It balances the impact of memory in shaping a sense of self with the nuance of language and the power of silence. To try and sell the book based on what it’s ‘about’ though is to do it a disservice.

Are you enjoying it?

Definitely. There are some side characters I’m keeping an eye on; we’re not finished with each other yet!

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MORRIN
Senior Library Customer Service Officer

What are you reading now?

Mina’s Matchbox by Yoko Ogawa

Why did you choose this book?

I deeply enjoy Japanese fiction writing and Yoko Ogawa is one of my most favourite authors.

What’s it about?

Mina’s Matchbox is literary fiction at its finest, an introspective and a coming-of-age story. This story is about one year in the life of a young girl, Tomoko, who is sent to live with her wealthy aunt and uncle in 1972 after the death of her father. Tomoko discovers her unique extended blended family. She is intrigued by her cousin Mina – who collects matchboxes and rides her pet pygmy hippo to school each day! While this is not an action-packed, quick-paced story, it slowly uncovers, the wealthy families deeply hidden secrets and their connections to each other.

Are you enjoying it?

I am really enjoying this book, I am enjoying the history of the family Tomoko is uncovering, and the story of Tomoko and her cousin Mina’s friendship is delightful, as is their pet pygmy hippo! Four and a half stars from me.

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KRISTIANA
Library Promotions and Communications Officer

What are you reading now?

Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

Why did you choose this book?

I’m married to a huge fantasy fan and have been familiar with Brandon Sanderson’s name for ages, though I’d never been too keen on diving into one of his long series. But when I saw this new standalone work – one he wrote for his wife – that could be enjoyed on its own and looked delightfully whimsical,
I was eager to give it a try.

What’s it about?

It follows a young woman named Tress, who lives a simple life on a tiny island until circumstance forces her to set sail across treacherous seas made of spores (and filled with pirates) to rescue her love – like a reverse Princess Bride. Even though it’s set in Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere universe, Tress of the Emerald Sea is a true stand-alone work: comedic, light, and with the air of a fairytale.

Are you enjoying it?

Oh gosh, yes! The language is wonderfully lyrical, and the story is wacky yet lovely – reminiscent of T J Klune. The author sprinkles in plenty of his own musings, which I
find absolutely charming. I want to live in this world!

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KERRY-ANN
Library Customer Service Team Leader

What are you reading now?

Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin

Why did you choose this book?

I read a review that interested me, it sounded as if it would be a fun read.

What’s it about?

Eddie Winston is a 90-year-old who spends his time as a volunteer in a charity shop. He sorts through donations from both living and dead and holds onto letters and tokens of love that he keeps at home on the ‘Eddie shelf’. Young at heart, Eddie develops a friendship with Bella who sets out to help him find love before it is too late. It’s a feel-good book about friendship, love and caring for others.

Are you enjoying it?

Yes, very much. I love the intergenerational aspect of the friendship between Eddie and Bella and the quirkiness of the characters. If you are looking for an uplifting read, this is a good one.

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Erin
Library Assistant

What are you reading now?

She Rides Shotgun by Jordan Harper

Why did you choose this book?

I was initially drawn in by the classy, slightly retro design of the cover, and the instantly striking title.

What’s it about?

It’s the tough, propulsive story of a hardened ex-con and his 11-year-old daughter, who are on the run from a gang of ruthless white supremacists.

Are you enjoying it?

I absolutely love this book! Despite its flood of near-apocalyptic-level violent imagery, the story is anchored by the bitterly unsentimental relationship that develops between the hard-as-nails father and his keenly intelligent, seen-too-much daughter. Cinematic in tone and tightly written, it grabs you hard and refuses to let go.

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LAURA

Library Community Engagement Officer – Youth

What are you reading now?

Business or Pleasure by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Why did you choose this book?

It’s the perfect mix of wit, heart, and humour – a romantic comedy with unexpected depth. Plus, I can’t resist a good story about finding love and yourself along the way.

What’s it about?

A ghostwriter who unexpectedly becomes a dating coach for a charming actor. It’s a fun, steamy exploration of career ambitions, self-discovery, and the messy beauty
of relationships.

Are you enjoying it?

Absolutely. It’s like a warm hug wrapped in clever banter. Every chapter leaves me smiling – and occasionally blushing!

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