Temora Shire Library is opening its doors wider than ever with a vibrant “Open Doors, Open Books, Open Minds” Open Week - a celebration of community, creativity, and connection. Starting next week, Monday 27 July and running right through to Saturday 1 August, it is being held in partnership with Riverina Regional Library, the event also marks an exciting membership drive, encouraging residents of all ages to discover the many free resources and opportunities available through their local library. Joining the library is free and there are many programs that run regularly, resources and events. Temora Shire Library manager, Wendy Manning said that libraries are more than just places to borrow books. They are spaces where ideas grow, people connect, and communities thrive,” Ms Manning said. “In today’s economic climate, libraries also play an important role in supporting our community by providing free access to resources, technology, and opportunities for learning and connection. “We do a lot of children's programming, we're doing things from Lego club right through to story time sessions. “We invite everyone to come along, get involved, support the library, and see what we have to offer.” From Monday there will be a full week of engaging activities designed to bring the community together and showcase the library as a welcoming hub for learning, imagination, and shared experiences. Some of the highlights of the Open Week include: · Reading Relay – A community-wide challenge inviting everyone to spend time in the library reading and logging their minutes to help build a shared reading goal. · Sticker City – Help transform a blank space into a vibrant, collaborative artwork using colourful dot stickers. · “Make Your Mark” Interactive Window Display – Unleash your creativity by drawing and leaving your mark on the library’s front window. · Community Puzzle – Work together with fellow visitors to complete a large collaborative puzzle over the course of the week. Another important event will be the unveiling of the recent bookmark competition winning design. The competition received fantastic support from local schools with more than 200 entries submitted. Ms Manning said that library membership was strong in the region, but it could be stronger. As a part of the membership drive, that will extend to 31 August, visitors are encouraged to “bring a friend and choose your own adventure” with an exciting refer-a-friend promotion. Simply encourage a friend or family member to join the library and have them list you as their referring friend—and both of you will receive an entry into the prize draw. Prizes on offer include First Prize: A $250 voucher to Riverina Adventure Sports, redeemable for a kayaking or skiing adventure of your choice Second Prize: A $75 voucher to the cinema of your choice Third Prize: A “Child at Heart” hamper from Junee Licorice and Chocolate To sign up for a free library membership, visit Temora Shire Library or complete the online registration (https://rrl.nsw.gov.au/) and drop into the library to collect your card. Whether you’re a regular visitor or stepping inside for the first time, Temora Shire Library welcomes you to be part of this exciting celebration.