Goings On: It's Leap Year Time

It's the weekend.  The last weekend before Leap Day.  So it feels appropriate that we should talk about some of the amazing things you could do this weekend, all in celebration of leap year.

I love hunting around for interesting things and this time I've even managed to come with some that appeal to my weird and quirky side such as the terrifically named play Benedict Cumberbatch Must Die.

I want to go just for the name of the play a lone.

And if you in the mood for something a little bit more Shakespearean then there are several of his plays being performed at the Pop-Up Globe; you can even do a behind the scenes tour.

If you are after something truly interesting and ever-so slightly macabre then you should definitely go to the Open Day at Waikumete Cemetery this Sunday where you can learn how to dig a grave, visit a mausoleum and generally learn a ton of interesting things about death and burial customs.   I'm now wondering if the hosts are going to all dress up as Death because THAT would be awesome.

Talking of death also leads us into questions about life and the universe and the Auckland Stardome has several different shows currently going on such as Dark Universe and the Grand Tour of the Solar System, which sound fascinating and definitely something I would be in to, nerdy SyFyGirl that I am.

Movies and music are another thing that I am in to, so it's kinda handy that there are both Movies in the Park and Music in the Parks so that I can get my fix; even better both events are free.  How cool is that.

And if after all the activity you just want to chill and relax then check out some of the awesome e-magazines, e-books and e-audios that we have got at Auckland Libraries.  With just a couple of clicks you can have some entertainment all for free and to use whenever, wherever you want.  Now that really is awesome.

Of Ye Olde Tymes And Men In Tights

There's nothing like losing yourself in a good historical romp.  One with sword fights and men in tights acting all manly and swoony.

Or maybe that's just me.

Either way there's something about getting lost in the past, whether through a book or a TV show that is immensely addictive.   Even better with the TV shows you get even more swoonish appeal with the likes of  Jeremy Irons, Tom Hiddleston and Henry Cavill to name just a few.

And if you want to know more about some of these real-life people and the times they lived in there is also a ton of non-fiction for you to wade into.  True stories of scandals and mysteries and love affairs and deaths that will make you realise that the past was definitely not an era of the staid and strait laced.

It almost seems fitting then that there are 2 events coming up in Auckland that celebrate this - The Pop-Up Globe Theatre which will be showcasing a series of Shakespearean productions and The James Plays, which is screening as part of the Auckland Festival.  So why not check them out.

After all you can never have too much of a man with a sword...

The Twelve Posts of Christmas: Let the Madness Commence...

As some of you may know I have a thing about Christmas.  Or more exactly the Christmas of my fantasies.  You know the kind.

A  roaring fire, a glittering Christmas tree, a hunky guy and of course lots and lots of snow. Sadly because we have a serious lack of the later here in New Zealand I've always been a little lacklustre about celebrating Christmas.

That is until this year.

Now, suddenly, I am a Christmas maniac.  Forget about the snow, there are, I have discovered, a million other ways to have a fantasy Christmas.

#nzsecretsanta

For the first time in my life I am being a Secret Santa courtesy of twitter.  And it's awesome.

You get someone and someone gets you and you try to learn what their likes and dislikes are just from reading their tweet stream.  It can, as you can imagine, be something of a challenge.  Which is half the fun.  Personally I can't wait to see what my Secret  Santa gift giver is going to get me.

O' Christmas Tree

I have a tree.

It's not a very big tree.  But still I HAVE a tree.

On my desk.

At work.

And it's super cute.  And o so Christmasy. And glittering.

And it seems kinda perfect that Dean Winchester from my all time favourite show (aka Supernatural) is in the background too.

Shop Until You Drop Or Let Your Fingers Do The Walking

I hate shopping.  And I hate Christmas shopping even more. But this year I've gotten smart. Because online is the way.

With just a click I can shop at my favourite stores such as T2 and Typo and new discovery Society6, which has all sort of fangirly gifts. Why I didn't do this sooner I have no idea.


Christmas Under The Stars

I've always had a thing for the night sky.  And added to my Christmas dream is the dream to one day see the Aurora Borealis. In Scandinavia no less.

Going to the Auckland Stardome at Christmas time seems kinda perfect somehow. Even better you can bring along something to donate to the City Mission or the SPCA.

How cool is that

Movies in the Park

Every year I've been meaning to go and every year I somehow miss it.  This year though I am determined to go.

Because a movie. Outside. Under the stars.

And that's another one crossed off the fantasy list.

Fangirls (And Boys) Unite: Armageddon Is Here

Just say the word Armageddon to any science fiction fan in New Zealand and Australia and they will know exactly what you are talking about.

The Armageddon Expo is the event that fans of all ages look forward and the ongoing success is all down to creator, founder and god-like organiser Bill Geradts who started Armageddon 18 years ago because he was (and is) a Doctor Who fan.

Talk about an awesome job, doing something you love and sharing it with others.

As usual the Auckland event is being held this weekend, because what is Labour Weekend without a little Armageddon.

Personally I can't wait.

It's a chance to see some of my favourite actors from my favourite shows; Ben Browder, Ben Browder, Ben Browder.  And yes I have a thing and and yes I'm really looking forward to seeing him and you would too if you had ever watched Farscape or Stargate SG-1.  It is also a chance to met up with some of my twitter like-minded friends; some for the first time - which is kind of nerve wracking and awesome.

Even more awesome is that Auckland Libraries will be having a booth at this year's event.  So if you happen to be there why not pop on in and check us out.  You can even borrow a book or graphic novel while you're there and we will also be live-tweeting the event.  Now how is that for service.

For those who can't attend why not check out some if not all of the following.

The Hobbit : an unexpected journey : chronicles : creatures & characters

The second Hobbit movie is due for release just in time for Christmas but until then why not check out the above title which looks at each of the characters in detail and is filled with a array of behind-the-scenes photos.

Farscape. [7], The war for the uncharted territories. Part one [graphic novel]

Someone did a Farscape comic?

How did I not know this?

Somehow I feel like I am letting down the entire fangirl community by not knowing about this sooner.  Still never mind I know now and am off busy placing holds on the entire series.

As you do.

Doctor who : the doctor's lives and times.

November the 23rd is the 50th anniversary of the very first broadcast of Doctor Who.

So of course it is only natural that you just have to check out as many books and comics on Doctor Who that you can possibly find.

Well it is if your me.

The legend of Korra.

If you haven't heard of this show then you soon will.  The Legend of Korra has been getting rave reviews since it started screening in the United States last year with accolades calling it the "smartest cartoon on TV" and representing "some of the highest quality fantasy".

Intrigued?

Once upon a time.

Imagine if fairy tales and fairy tale characters were real.  And imagine again these characters living amongst us with no memory of who they really are.

If this sounds like your kind of thing, then Once Upon A Time is the show for you.

It also features the wonderful Robert Carlyle which is reason enough to watch it.

Matariki celebrations continue until 21st July

Matariki celebrations commenced at Auckland Libraries in June and continue right up until 21st July. Toi Oho - awakening creativity at Auckland Libraries is our theme. We are celebrating Matariki, the Māori New Year, with more than 150 events. At libraries all over Auckland, there’ll be a chance to hear special Matariki Storytimes, turn your hand to skills such as carving, weaving and poi making, play games and learn more about your whakapapa.

There are still three weeks of events to go. Check out the Matariki pages on the Auckland Libraries website but here are a couple of highlights.

Central City Library will also host two special Matariki events in our regular Family History Lunchtime Series, focusing on whakapapa research and the interactions between Māori and Sir George Grey.

Hopefully the weather is clear this Thursday night as Mangare East searches the sky for the stars. Thursday 5 July, 6pm - 7.30pm: Can you find Matariki stars? -- Come along to find out about the Matariki stars, plus how & where to find them. Learn about some other constellations too including the Southern Cross and Scorpius. Includes a viewing of the real night sky weather permitting.

Tupu Youth Library have a special guest on Friday 20 July, 2pm: Living Book with Dr. Pita Sharples -- Have you ever wanted to ask Dr. Pita Sharples something? Come and listen to the inspirational Dr. Pita Sharples share stories of his life and success, and ask that question!

From Flax to Fibre is an exhibition at Auckland's Central City Library by the late Emily Schuster who is acknowledged internationally as one of the most gifted weavers of her generation. It runs from Saturday 30 June 2012 11.00am - Monday 16 July 2012 4.00pm in Te Whare Wānanga Level 2. Entry is free.

Getting out and about in Auckland this weekend

There is plenty to do and see this weekend in Auckland. Culture abounds as well as rest and relaxation and good music. Here's a selection from the events page on the Auckland Council website.

Bring the family to celebrate the start of the Year of the Dragon at the 13th annual Auckland Lantern Festival in Albert Park.
Choose from numerous Asian food stalls and picnic on the grass amidst hundreds of beautiful lanterns specially imported from China. Non-stop entertainment on the main stage will include a dragon and lion dance group from Shanghai, a Chinese-style reggae band from Beijing, an opera and modern dance group from Taizhou and a Hong Kong a cappella group.
Make sure you don’t miss Auckland’s biggest and brightest Chinese New Year festival!

Toi o Manukau and Auckland Council partner to deliver Auckland's largest Waitangi Day event.
Come along for a day of celebration, education, culture, entertainment and live music. This is a FREE event on Monday 6 February, 10am-6pm at Barry Curtis Park, Chapel Road, Flat Bush, Manukau.
The 2012 programme also features a mihi whakatau (ceremonial welcome), tiriti korero (treaty education and information), nga toi (arts stall area) and a tamariki zone with free children’s rides and activities. The event aims to raise awareness and understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi through the sharing of arts, crafts, music and food. This year's line-up includes New Zealand reggae giants Katchafire, rising international star David Dallas, Ardijah, Maisey Rika, Sons of Zion, Bella Kalolo and Foundation. In a unique first, China’s number-one reggae band, Long Shen Dao, is also making the trip to perform on New Zealand's national day. This is an alcohol-free and smoke-free event.

The Muriwai Waitangi Day Fetival is set within native bush overlooking NZ's most spectacular west coast beach. It's an opportunity for families to drive past the strawberry fields and vineyards of Kumeu to a quiet clearing of native bush. Just 35 minutes from Ponsonby Road and a short walk from one of NZ's most spectacular surf beaches, Anika Moa, Moana and the Tribe, Pacific Curls, Nat Rose, Majic Paora and more will be reminding us that "Every Day is Waitangi Day". Over 15 painters, photographers, sculptors and jewellers who live in and around Muriwai Beach will be creating new works for a special Waitangi Day exhibition. A hikoi to sacred sites will enable the sharing of stories about place and time, as will a series of lively speakers on stage in the "hot seat". With all music, art, cuisine, korero and crafts acknowledging "Every Day is Waitangi Day", a strict zero waste, alcohol and smoke free policy, and limited ticket sales, the Muriwai Waitangi Day Festival kicks off 2012 on just the right note. Just as you would expect from the newest little festival in the best little place. All ticket proceeds go towards the fundraiser for the new Muriwai Lifesaving Club and Community Centre and an iwi project. The day runs on Monday from 10am to 6pm at Houghton's Bush Camp, 75 Motutara Road, Muriwai Beach. The cost is Adults $20, under 12s free with a strictly limited number of tickets available from Event Finder

Auckland Council - Music in the Parks kicks off with The Black Seeds, Supported by: dDub and Sassy and the Pocketbook. Monday 6 Feb from 2pm-6pm at Henderson Park, Wilsher Crescent, Henderson. Having carved out their reputation through platinum selling albums their fusion of big-beat funk, dub, soul, and afro-beat, mixed with vintage roots-reggae will make for an unforgettable concert suitable for all ages.

Chinese New Year - The Year of the Dragon

The Year of the Dragon flames into life at Auckland Libraries from 18th January. The zodiac sign of the dragon flies in to mark the start of the lunar new year. The lunar new year is one of the biggest celebrations in the East and is an event that is celebrated all over the world.

Join us at Auckland Libraries to explore Eastern culture and traditions of the Year of the Dragon with a variety of exciting FREE activities, displays, stories and presentations at our 55 libraries. Find out what's happening at a library near you on our events website including our storytimes for little dragons.

For all those kids out there doing Dare to Explore and who want to know more about China and Chinese New Year, have a look at this selection of books I have read recently.

Happy, Happy Chinese New Year! By Demi. Small simple and colourful, this books describes the traditions that surround Chinese New year, when you sweep out the old, start anew with dragons dancing, feasts and gifts. Just like Matariki it is in harmony with the seasonal cycle of harvesting and planting. Like many festivals around the world there is food and we are introduced to some of the delicacies of the festival. Dragons, fireworks and lights scare away the evil spirits. This is a delightful picture book to introduce this cultural festival which is part of our city.

A Ghost in my suitcase By Gabrielle Wang. I loved this book. I thought I would say that right off the bat. It’s a fantastic story of a young girl who has lost her mother and who travels back to China to visit her grandmother and release her mum’s ashes in the place of her birth. But it is much more exciting than that as Celeste uncovers family secrets and dangers… and a gift she didn’t know she had. The title should have been a clue to the ghosts in the story, but somehow I missed that. As well as the ghosts we are also introduced to a new and different world through the eyes of a young Australian in a way that seems completely natural. Readers will be able to relate Celeste as she tells her impressions of China in a voice just like their own.

The Red Piano By Andre Leblanc and Barroux. This book, produced with the assistance of Amnesty International, is inspired by a true story of a young girl who grew up during China’s Cultural Revolution in the 1970’s. Educated young people were sent to camps to do manual labour to erase elitism. One such young girl dreams of her former life and her love of music. In the village outside the camp she goes to the house of Mother Han and plays on the old piano hidden in a back room. If she is discovered she will be punished and the piano destroyed. The hardship of the story is illustrated in tones of sepia with garish red accents. It is exceptionally well done and brings to the reader the story and the sense of this time in another country. Recommended.

Chinese New Year at Auckland Libraries continues until 11 February.

Happy snapper or professional photographer?

It's Auckland Festival of Photography 3-26 June. I am in awe of the work of some photographers. They can tell a whole story in just one image. I would love to be able to have that ability, or at the very the least the time to practice and find out if I had a smidgen of talent.

So instead I make do with snapping away with my digital (what an asset from the days where you had to develop photos to see what sort of mess you had made of the image) in the vague hope that one of the many clicks will look okay.

Which of course all leads me into what the library has in the way of resources for the budding, aspiring, novice or even professional photographer and for all those that like to analyse the images.

Discover the Digital Library's heritage images and photography eResources.

Auckland Art Gallery collection The Auckland Art Gallery Collection includes access to over 15,000 works of art, 9000 of which have attached images. Key information is....

Footprints Footprints contains more than 2500 historical photographs, cartoons, drawings, posters, watercolours and ephemera.....

Heritage Images Online Heritage Images Online contains over 40,000 images from our significant photograph collections: Winkelmann, Firth, Richardson, Radcliffe, Young,....

Herman Schmidt online exhibition This exhibition is an online version of selected items from the Herman Schmidt exhibition.....

Local History Online Local History Online is a combined collection of local history indexes to community newspapers, oral histories, and heritage images from the....

Manukau's Journey - a Manukau timeline Manukau's Journey is a selection of significant and representative events from the history of Howick, Manukau, Manurewa-Papakura and Franklin wards....

Matapihi Matapihi is a National Digital Forum initiative hosted by the National Library that allows you search the digital collections across....

Photographers database The photographers database is an index to photographers who have worked in New Zealand from the 1840s to the present day.....

Picture Post Historical Archive The Picture Post was an iconic British newspaper published between 1938 and 1957. It can be credited with defining the style of photojournalism that....

Point of View: Scenic New Zealand The photographs in Point of View: Scenic New Zealand show small rural towns and large cities, street scenes, gardens, buildings and beaches....

Sir George Grey website View rare books, medieval manuscripts, Shakespeare's First Folio and other highlights of the Sir George Grey Collection.....

The last Digital resource you can search is our Local History website

Or if you want to turn the pages of a real book, check out our Photography section on the non-fiction shelves (both children's and adults). The Call Number (which is the number on the spine of our non-fiction books) for photography is 770 to 779. There's plenty here from collections from Time and National Geographic to how-to's for the novices (like me). And how to play with your digital images to make them look good when you are back at home.

In the meantime, check out the Festival of Photography website to see if there is something happening near you.

Celebrate the Pacific

Auckland is home to more than 180,000 Pacific people and the Pasifika Festival is the best time to get involved and celebrate our diversity. Just like we did at Warkworth Library yesterday when I hosted a Pasifika storytime (with the help of Eileen from Northcote Library so that I didn't damage the Pacific languages in the same way I mangled Chinese for the Chinese New Year last month). We had an awesome time counting in Samoan (a great success) and singing Head Shoulders Knees and Toes (not so much so but we had fun trying).

The Pasifika Festival runs all week culminating in the huge Festival Day on Saturday 12th March at Western Springs. There is also an opening night concert lakeside on Thursday night from 7pm. Here is the link through the Auckland Council website with a list of events.

The Libraries around Auckland are also celebrating Pasifika. As well as more storytimes and rhymetimes, there are demonstrations, music, song and craft. Here is the link through to the library website to find out what is happening in your neighbourhood.

Or visit your library and pick up one of the brochures on offer.

Anniversary and Waitangi Weekend Hours

With the exception of Botany Library, all Auckland Libraries branches will be closed on Auckland Anniversary Day and Waitangi Day.

Auckland Libraries branches (that includes all former Rodney Libraries)
Monday 31 January - Closed
Sunday 6 February - Closed

Botany Library
Monday 31 January - 10:00am - 5:30pm
Sunday 6 February - 10:00am - 5:30pm

Mobile Library
Monday 31 January - Will not run
Sunday 6 February - Will not run

Hopping into the New Year

Apparently 2011 is my year. I was born in the Year of the Rabbit (I'm not going to tell you which one) and the soon to be celebrated Chinese New Year (which begins on the 3rd of February) welcomes this year.

As we get into the two week celebration we will tell you more about the festival. But in the meantime, here are some of the events that are being run.

Storytime sessions:
10:30am - 11am, Monday 7 February - Warkworth Library
10:30am - 11am, Tuesday 8 February - Mahurangi East Library
10:30am - 11am, Wednesday 9 February - Wellsford Library
10:30am - 11am, Wednesday 9 February - Whangaparaoa Library
11am - 11:30am, Thursday 10 February - Orewa Library

For more information on these and other activities, watch out for the displays and brochures in your local library or go to the Events Link on our website

Zoo Africa Night for Aucklanders - Sunday 3 October

Spend an unforgettable evening in Africa at Auckland Zoo's annual Africa Night (4.30pm – 9.30pm) on Sunday 3 October and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of this continent that's so famous for its awe-inspiring wildlife.
Your urban safari begins at 4.30pm with a behind-the-scenes tour and the chance to get up close to some of Africa's most well known wildlife including lions, hippos, rhinos, and giraffe before enjoying a traditional African dinner in the Old Elephant House. A special guest speaker will entertain you with tales of Africa following a live auction, which offers you the opportunity to bid for some unique and affordable items.

The night is a joint fundraiser for the Auckland Conservation Fund and Zoological Society of Auckland to help support conservation projects as well as provide grants to further conservation work or studies.

Biodiversity lecture series at Auckland Central Library #3

United Nations has designated 2010 as the Year of Biodiversity and Auckland Central City Library has organised a series of four free lectures to generate awareness of this diverse and interesting topic. The third is on Wednesday 8 September.

Grapes, Guava, Ngutu Kaka and Land Crabs.
David Havell, Biodiversity Technical Support Officer at DOC will be talking about threatened species and ecosystems.

The Department of Conservation manages several biodiversity programmes in remote areas. Islands such as Hauturu in the Hauraki Gulf, Raoul Island - midway between Tonga and the North Island - and Moturemu Island in the Kaipara are important sites for threatened plants and animals. Predatory mammals and mammalian herbivores have been removed from many of these islands and recovery is underway, yet island biodiversity faces several threats including some from favourite plants such as grapes, passion fruit and guava.

Wednesday 8 September 2010
12.00pm - 1.00pm, Central City Library, Whare Wānanga, level 2
Bookings essential, phone 377 0209 to reserve a place

Biodiversity lecture series at Auckland Central Library #2

United Nations has designated 2010 as the Year of Biodiversity and Auckland Central City Library has organised a series of four free lectures to generate awareness of this diverse and interesting topic. The second is on Wednesday 25 August.

Our collective taonga: urban forest plan

Craig Bishop, Senior Ecologist at Auckland City Council, presents the 'urban forest plan', one of six action plans that will deliver 'Places for people, places for nature' and how it relates to vegetation on the Auckland isthmus. He will also discuss how the action plan for the Hauraki Gulf Islands addresses the range of open space issues in the islands and how it links with the urban forest plan.

Craig is an ecologist with 15 years experience in teaching ecology and protection, and managing of ecological sites in urban and rural settings. Currently Craig works in the Heritage Team at Auckland City Council and is responsible for administering natural heritage within the council boundaries. He is actively involved in protecting and managing significant ecological sites, providing input into restoration projects on council parkland, and the urban forest plan.

Wednesday 25 August 2010
12.00pm - 1.00pm, Central City Library, Whare Wānanga, level 2
Bookings essential, phone 377 0209 to reserve a place

Here’s some brief information about the next 2 lectures
- Wednesday 8 September. Grapes, Guava, Ngutu Kaka and Land Crabs. David Havell, Biodiversity Technical Support Officer with DOC will be talking about threatened species and ecosystems.
- Wednesday 22 September. Peter Fraser, Conservation Officer at Auckland Zoo will be talking about Te Wao Nui, the exciting new ecological areas to be developed at the Zoo.

Storylines Festival workshops in Whangaparaoa

More Storylines Festival fun in Whangaparaoa! Writing and illustration workshops for children 10-14 years at Whangaparaoa Library tomorrow. $15 per workshop.

Writing Workshop with Lorraine Orman
12.30 - 2.00pm

Creating Characters: Bring your stories to life by creating characters who jump off the page.

Lorraine Orman - An early love of reading and writing led Lorraine to her involvement in the literary life as an adult. Initially, she worked in the National Library in Wellington; then when she had her own family, she began to write short stories for children.

Illustration Workshop with Fraser Williamson

2.30 - 4.00pm

Bring It To Life Will Ya!: Illustrating children's books for publishing. From a script, complete a character study, learn about layouts and put together a rough draft of book illustrations.

Fraser Williamson a.k.a Fraz is an artist/ illustrator whose work ranges from large illustrative soul paintings, which depict dream and spiritual life, to quirky children's books which try to amuse and entertain. Fraser wishes to portray characters and environments that allow for imagination and diversity.

Volunteer for the Rugby World Cup 2011

New Zealand will welcome the world next year as over 60,000 international visitors arrive to enjoy Rugby World Cup 2011. The organisers say the "...Tournament will succeed through the efforts of all New Zealanders – we will be a nation of four million hosts and volunteers will play an important role in helping the country to welcome our guests." To achieve this they're looking for a team of 5,000+ volunteers to be the face of New Zealand, on the ground, at stadiums and out in the streets, from one end of the country to the other.
Rugby New Zealand 2011 is calling on the Rugby community to be part of this once in a life time opportunity. You are able to both volunteer and attend matches (if you have tickets). They need the experience, skills and passion that you already give to the sport week in, week out.
You have to be at least 17 to be a volunteer. There are many different roles on offer for those who are passionate about our country and willing to give their time and energy to support this fantastic event. Registrations close 24 September 2010.

Biodiversity lecture series at Auckland Central Library

United Nations has designated 2010 as the Year of Biodiversity and Auckland Central City Library has organised a series of four free lectures to generate awareness of this diverse and interesting topic.

The first is on this Wednesday.

The silent and invisible whanau of the forest and waterways
Discover New Zealand's hidden native freshwater fish. Dene André, Chairman Royal Forest & Bird Protection Society (South Auckland Branch) presents an illustrated talk on the conservation of our endangered native fish. Dene has extensive knowledge and experience with native fish and their habitats. He champions the battle to save them and their environment, and has published numerous reports and papers on stream ecology and fish conservation.
Wednesday 28 July 2010, 12.00pm - 1.00pm, Central City Library, Whare Wānanga, level 2
Bookings essential, phone 377 0209 to reserve a place

* Wednesday 25 August. Our collective taonga: urban forest plan.
Craig Bishop, Senior Ecologist at Auckland City Council presents the Council’s urban forest plan.

* Wednesday 8 September. Grapes, Guava, Ngutu Kaka and Land Crabs.
David Havell, Biodiversity Technical Support Officer with DOC will be talking about threatened species and ecosystems.

* Wednesday 22 September. Te Wao Nui.
Peter Fraser, Conservation Officer at Auckland Zoo will be talking about Te Wao Nui, the exciting new ecological areas to be developed at the Zoo.

Auckland Writers & Readers Festival

The Auckland Writers and Readers Festival kicks off today with a special programme for schools. We can't be there this year (sob) but our cousins from Christchurch Libraries are up again. They write an entertaining mix of interviews and session reviews. They record a podcast where they discuss their thoughts about the day. Bookman Beattie is also at the Festival.
Is anyone around here going?

Anniversary Weekend

Cross your fingers that the weather stays fine for Auckland and Northland Anniversary Weekend, starting tomorrow.

Rodney Libraries will be open their usual hours over Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 January. All libraries will be closed on Monday 1st February. Just advance notice that we will also be closed on Saturday 6 February (Waitangi Day)

For a lot of people Anniversary weekend is about the ocean - be it swimming, sailing, surfing or just lying on the beach. So drive safe there and back, and stay safe on the water.

Have an awesome weekend everyone.

Santa News from Auckland Readers & Writer's Festival

The latest Auckland Readers & Writers Festival newsletter is out announcing lots of fantastic guests for the May event. And tickets don't go on sale until April so there is plenty of time for your budget to recover from the festive season. However, if you want to buy a subscription as a gift there is still just enough time for Santa to get it under the tree.

Here's an excerpt from the bulletin announcing the lineup to date:

The Auckland Writers & Readers Festival is proud to announce that the following international guests will appear at the 2010 festival:
Elizabeth Gilbert, author of the bestselling memoir Eat, Pray, Love. The sequel, Committed, is a meditation on the history, culture, politics, trials and tribulations of marriage.
John Carey is a distinguished critic, reviewer, broadcaster, Man Booker judge, and biographer of the Nobel Prize-winning novelist William Golding.
Rick Gekoski, bestselling author of Tolkien’s Gown, takes us on a literary journey in his bibliomemoir Outside of a Dog.
The prolific and much-loved Thomas Keneally’s most recent novel is The People’s Train. He has just published the first in a three-volume history of the Australian people, Australians: Origins to Eureka.
In Seven Days in the Art World sociologist Sarah Thornton looks at all aspects of buying, selling, and creating serious art.
Jill Dawson’s sixth novel, The Great Lover, is a fictional life of Rupert Brooke.
Yiyun Li’s A Thousand Years of Good Prayers was shortlisted for the Frank O’Connor International Short Story Award, and won the Guardian First Book Award. Her new novel, The Vagrants, is based on the true story of a young woman sentenced to death in 1979 China for her loss of faith in Communism.
Su Tong won the 2009 Man Asia Literary Prize for The Boat to Redemption. A major figure in China’s literary scene, his best-known work is Wives and Concubines, which was made into the film Raise the Red Lantern.
Independent journalist and blogger Antony Loewenstein writes about the internet in The Blogging Revolution and the Israel/Palestine conflict in his bestselling My Israel Question.
Ben Naparstek, the 23-year-old editor of Australia’s influential magazine, The Monthly, recently published In Conversation, a collection of interviews with 39 of the world’s best writers.
John Freeman, the new editor of Granta, explores the history of communication in Shrinking the World: The 4,000-year story of how email came to rule our lives.
Adrian Wooldridge, management editor of The Economist, joins us to talk about his latest book (co-authored with John Micklethwait, The Economist’s editor-in-chief), God is Back: How the Global Revival of Faith is Changing the World.
More guests, including New Zealand writers, will be announced in February 2010. Final programme details will be released in March and tickets go on sale through The Edge Ticketing Service in April.