Wollongong City Libraries, nestled on the stunning New South Wales coast just south of Sydney, are more than just places to borrow books – they’re buzzing community hubs bursting with free activities, resources and experiences for all ages.

From storytime for little ones, book clubs, and digital streaming, to downloading free e-books and audio books, there’s always something happening. They’re open, inclusive, and here for everyone!

We caught up with the librarians to find out what they’re reading.

Emmerson
Senior Library Services Officer

What are you reading now?

The Familiars by Stacey Halls

Why did you choose this book?

Admittedly I picked the book up based on its cover. The gold reflections giving that hint of magic, and the sombre scene of a woman seen through the collar of a noose, all intrigued me to pick up the book!

What’s it about?

This historical fiction is set around the Pendle witch trials of 1612, and weaves in paranormal elements and real historical figures. The story follows a pregnant noblewoman, Fleetwood Shuttleworth who discovers her husband has hidden a doctor’s letter that predicts she will not survive another birth. She soon meets a midwife, Alice Grey, who promises to help her deliver the baby, but Alice soon is accused of witchcraft. The two women must help each other survive.

Are you enjoying it?

Yes! I enjoy books written in different time periods, especially those that explore the lives of women when they weren’t highly considered. It’s so far an easy read

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Adam

Library Services Officer — Service Quality & Development

What are you reading now?

The Library Book by Susan Orlean

Why did you choose this book?

I am a sucker for books about books. This particular one is about the Los Angeles Public Library in the ’80s, so I was drawn to it.

What’s it about?

On the surface it’s about a massive fire that was set to the library in 1986 that destroyed over 400 000 books. There is a quirky character who confesses to starting the fire then changes his story multiple times. Deeper down it delves into our greater feelings for public libraries, books, and the natural aversion that people have to destroying a book. It digs into histories of libraries, books and California.

Are you enjoying it?

If you enjoy reading, libraries and/or true crime then this book is very engaging and philosophical. Each chapter starts with card catalogue style headings that are relevant to the topic. My favourite line so far: ‘When a person dies, it’s as if a library has burned to the ground.’

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Lilly

Library Service Officer

What are you reading now?

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara

Why did you choose this book?

I read reviews online, many of which said it was an unforgettable and emotionally impactful novel – which is exactly what it is. This book will have you crying on the train home.

What’s it about?

A Little Life follows the lives of four college friends in New York as they navigate the struggles of adulthood. We follow the main character, Jude, through his journey of growth from a traumatic past. This book is about friendship, family, survival and the struggles of resilience. It offers a stirring look at the complexities of human connection and the impact of personal history.

A Little Life tackles some sensitive topics that can be tough to read, so I would recommend researching its themes before picking up this fantastic book. Yanagihara is a brilliant author who isn’t afraid to convey the harrowing parts of life. It offers a profound view on what it means to survive and live.

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Kellie

Senior Library Services Officer – CC&L

What are you reading now?

Your Birthday Was the Best! by Maggie Hutchings, illustrated by Felicita Sala

Why did you choose this book?

Its playful narrative and unique point of view offer a creative way to explore perspective with young readers.

What’s it about?

It tells the story of a cockroach who unknowingly disrupts a child’s birthday party. Convinced he’s the star of the celebration, the cockroach enthusiastically joins in, completely unaware that the guests are startled by his presence. This contrast highlights how perspective can shape experiences, all while maintaining a light and humorous tone. Sala’s expressive illustrations bring warmth and charm to the story, making the unlikely protagonist amusing rather than unsettling.

Are you enjoying it?

Yes, of course! It’s clever, amusing, and full of playful surprises. The cockroach’s upbeat attitude makes each page a laugh, making it a perfect story time go-to.

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Audra

Service Team Leader

What are you reading now?

The Cry of the Silkworm by Shi Naseer

Why did you choose this book?

The title captured my imagination and after reading the blurb I knew I wanted to know more.

What’s it about?

The book follows a young naive protagonist, Chen Di, set in rural China during the one child policy in the early 1990s.

Shanghai, 2002, we see an older and more hardened Chen Di. Between the two time periods we learn about the devasting consequences the one-child policy had on families and the devaluation of girls, to the present time where Chen Di tries to navigate her hatred for the one she holds responsible for her mother’s death: the head of family planning, Chief Lu.

Are you enjoying it?

Fiction is a gateway for knowledge, empathy and navigating the complexities of human nature. I would highly recommend reading The Cry of the Silkworm.

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Josephine

Senior Library Service Officer — Digital Experience

What are you reading now?

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney

Why did you choose this book?

I chose this book because I saw a few people recommend it on social media.

What’s it about?

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney follows author Grady Green who is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his wife, Abby. Hoping to escape his grief and rediscover his creativity, he travels to a remote Scottish island to write his next novel, and a series of unsettling events occur.

Are you enjoying it?

Yes! It’s an intriguing story. The island feels like a character in its own right – it’s beautiful but also has this eerie, unsettling vibe that adds to the tension. There’s also a tiny population of very interesting characters that you’re never quite sure if you can trust. I especially love the use of dual perspectives that overlap in clever ways.

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Charne

Library Services Officer

What are you reading now?

Once Upon a K-Prom by Kat Cho

Why did you choose this book?

I chose this book because I just finished watching KPop Demon Hunters and happened to see this on the shelf. I knew I had to read Once Upon a K-Prom by Kat Cho.

What’s it about?

This youth romance touches on the K-Pop industry and explores the price of fame and the opportunities it brings. It also portrays an ‘ordinary’ family and the trials of growing up. As the book progressed the characters gained depth and evolved, they learnt from their mistakes and gained new perspectives. It wasn’t just a romance but
a coming of age story.

Are you enjoying it?

It was such a cute read! It read just like a K-Drama with tropes and twists and adorable characters. It was cheesy in parts and fun and just the right type of light entertainment I needed.

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