Get your tech on with Techweek 2022!

Techweek is back! It runs from 16th to 22nd May 2022 nationwide!
image courtesy of techweek


What is Techweek?

Techweek is a nationwide series of events, showcasing and celebrating New Zealand innovation. Techweek has a mixture of live, virtual and hybrid events, both physical and virtual, that can be attended and enjoyed from anywhere in the world!

The theme for Techweek 2022 is “connect for a better tomorrow.”

For more information about Techweek and what events are on, visit the website.

Some highlights you might like to explore include a talk with Dr Michelle Dickinson, the Founder of Nanogirl Labs, about STEM in Schools, and an introductory Scratch coding virtual project with Code Club Aotearoa.

In the mean time, if you want information on the latest technology and innovations, why not check out the following books in the library collection?!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsSTEAM jobs for gamers.

Do you love playing video games? Did you know you can get a job helping to create one? There are more jobs for those who love gaming than you probably ever realized. From animators to script writers, readers will learn about various STEM and STEAM gaming jobs and what it takes to get one– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe zoom, fly, bolt, blast steam handbook : build 18 innovative projects with brain power.

Rockport’s creative engineering extraordinaire, Lance Akiyama, returns again with Zoom, Fly Bolt, Blast STEAM Engineer and 18 STEAM approved projects to get kids doing, thinking, and building!– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsSelf-driving cars : the new way forward.

“Author Fallon presents a history of how the technology used in self-driving cars has developed, identifies recent technological gains, and surveys recent controversies surrounding the potential mass adoption of self-driving cars.”–Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsSTEAM lab for kids : 52 creative hands-on projects using science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

“The creative projects in STEAM Lab for Kids are designed to demonstrate that there’s math and science to be found in great art! From rubber bands to edible stained glass, young engineers and artists alike will find inspiration in these 52 art-forward labs.” — Back cover. Also available as an eBook.


image courtesy of syndeticsVirtual reality.

“Engaging images accompany information about virtual reality. The combination of high-interest subject matter and light text is intended for students in grades 2 through 7” — Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsThe science of medical technology : from humble syringes to life-saving robots.

“This fascinating guide to the ever-growing potential of medical technologies combines fact-packed, easy-to-read text with colourful and quirky illustrations. From an exploration of how new devices are helping to spot early signs of illness to a discussion of how vaccinations have helped to eradicate devastating diseases, it is an eye-opening introduction to the miraculous power of preventative and curative medicine.Each spread has multiple entry points, including an introductory paragraph, illustrations and side panels such as Fascinating Fact, Can You Believe It?, and Try It Yourself, which provide additional information and handy advice.” (Catalogue).

Please search our catalogue for more information about technology here:

Children’s Comics and Graphic Novels: New Releases in October 2021

Spring is around the corner! Why not spring on down to Wellington City Libraries for some new children’s comics and graphic novels to keep you amused. So what are you waiting for? Come on down to your local branch and borrow the following:

image courtesy of syndeticsHarriet Tubman : toward freedom.

“Graphic biography detailing Harriet Tubman’s escape from slavery and her efforts with other abolitionists to rescue dozens of those still enslaved”– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsMagic tree house : dinosaurs before dark.

“Retells, in graphic novel form, the tale of eight-year-old Jack and his younger sister Annie, who find a magic treehouse which whisks them back to an ancient time zone where they see live dinosaurs.” (Catalogue).

image courtesy of Pup detectives [4] : ghosts, goblins, and ninjas!

“During a martial arts expo at Pawston Elementary, the sacred scroll of Bark-Jitsu is stolen. The pup detectives set out to crack their most puzzling case yet… because this one involves, ghosts, goblins, and a super stealthy ninja”– Provided by publisher.

IMAGE COURTESY OF SYNDETICSJop and Blip wanna know [1] : can you hear a penguin fart on Mars?, and other excellent questions.

“Join Jop and Blip as they follow their curiosity and investigate these seemingly odd questions using their own brand of logic, critical thinking skills, STEM knowledge, and humor. Can you hear a penguin fart on Mars? What if you wanted a dragon sandwich? Why do we need TWO ears?” (Catalogue).

image courtesy of syndeticsSurvive in the outdoors!

“In this volume of Maker Comics, First Second’s DIY graphic novel series, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for seven projects that will help you survive in the wild! Sophia and Alonso have been packed off to their grandpa’s for a fishing trip, and they’re dreading spending a whole day in the woods without any cell service. But Grandpa opens their eyes to the wonders of the outdoors, and its dangers — from tick bites to hypothermia. And when a sprained ankle delays their return to civilization, the kids have to learn not only how to perform forest-friendly first aid, but how to safely spend the night in the woods when you don’t have a tent! Prepare yourself before you set off on your next adventure! Whether you’re hiking in the wilderness or camping in your own backyard, Survive in the Outdoors! will equip you with the know-how you need. In this book, you’ll find step-by-step instructions on how to build a campfire, catch and clean a fish, make a shelter, and more!” (Catalogue).

image courtesy of syndeticsMarvel action. Avengers. Book 5, Off the clock.

“First, in order to stop Loki’s newest scheme, Thor and Ant-Man go… antiquing? Then, while visiting an elementary school, Captain America runs into the nefarious Trapster! With scores of children in peril, Cap must rely on the aid of none other than Squirrel Girl! And, after Thor and Cap’s difficulties, find out what the rest of the Avengers are up to on their day off! Chaos reigns as a fiendish villain makes off with one of Dr. Strange’s most powerful artifacts!”–Amazon.

 

 

 

13 New Non Fiction that will leave you spellbound!

Hey Kids!

There are only a couple of weeks left of spring. Why not spring on down to your local library and check out the latest new junior non fiction!

Read books where you can learn languages with Sesame Street, get spellbound with Harry Potter, read how Maui slowed the sun in English and Te Reo, get your STEAM on and so much more!

Enjoy!


Amazing Inventions.

Odd Science: Inventions is filled with weird and wacky facts that you’ve never heard before. Read about the trainers made of spider silk, wonder at the first record played in space and tell your friends about the robot built in 1937. There are facts about electricity being used as glue, facts about glow-in-the-dark cats and facts about nano-robots that can ‘swim’ inside the body during biopsies!

 


Video Game Creators.

With full-color illustrations and lively text, and chock-full of interesting facts, Awesome Minds: Video Game Creators tells the stories of these amazing men and women who turned a small hobby into a multimillion-dollar industry that changed the way we play and interact, from our living rooms to the arcades, on our computers to our hand-held devices. Awesome Minds: Video Game Creators is the perfect read for those with creative spirits, curious minds, and a love of technology and video games– Provided by publisher.

 


Learn a language with Sesame Street!

Welcome to Mandarin Chinese.

Sesame characters help readers learn Mandarin so they can connect with friends who speak the language. Welcoming words relating to everyday life and friendship give readers new language tools to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Welcome to French.

Sesame Street characters help readers connect to new friends who speak French. Simple words and phrases relating to everyday life and a colorful approach help readers learn a new language to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Welcome to German.

Sesame Street characters help readers learn German so they can connect with friends who speak the language. Welcoming words relating to everyday life and friendship give readers new language tools to become smarter, kinder friends.

 


Tales of Aotearoa: How Maui Slowed the Sun in English and Te Reo!

Re-tells the story of how Maui slowed the journey of the sun through the sky each day.

 

 

 

 


Wilma Rudolph.

Read all about Wilma Rudolph, the remarkable sprinter and Olympic champion. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the athlete’s life.

 


Brilliant Bodies.

Prepare to laugh, marvel and learn with Brilliant Bodies. Jam packed full of facts about elements, organs, hair, feet and so much more!

 

 


Game logic : level up and create your own games with science activities for kids.

This book takes kids on a journey to discover the history of games, and then leads them from their initial idea for a new game through several iterations of a game all the way to playing the final version of a game they created. Explore the processes of both playing and creating games while developing critical and creative thinking skills that apply to tasks and concepts across academic fields. — adapted from back cover.

 


The Unofficial Harry Potter Spell book.

The Unofficial Ultimate Harry Potter Spellbook is a beautiful, elegantly designed reference that details all of the known spells cast in the Harry Potter films, books, video games and card games, as well as official Harry Potter spinoffs, such as Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Each spell is given its own entry including spell name, pronunciation details, a description of the spell effect, spell casting methods, wand movements, hand movements and vocalizations, plus primary sources in which the spell was used. Readers will also find trivia related to each spell, such as who it was used against, what the outcome was, or what a spell’s unusual history might be. There are more than 200 spells in all, plus suggestions for strategic spell use and methods for creating original spells.

 


Never too young! : 50 unstoppable kids who made a difference.

“Meet 50 super-inspiring kids! It’s never too early–and you’re never too young– to make a difference in the world! The amazing musicians, writers, scientists, athletes, activists, and other fascinating kids in this book accomplished great feats by the age of eighteen. They impacted people’s lives by coming up with new inventions, making art and music, competing in sports, and speaking out about important issues. Let their incredible stories inspire you to follow your dreams, achieve your goals, and strive for greatness now!”–Back cover.

 

 


Harry Potter. Spells & charms : a movie scrapbook.

Packed with inserts, concept illustrations, and behind-the-scenes photography, Harry Potter: Spells and Charms: A Movie Scrapbook is a guide to the spells and incantations of the Harry Potter films. A must-have collectible for all Harry Potter fans.


9 New Non Fiction to read during the holidays!

Hi Kids!

Check out the latest non fiction added to the library collection! Featured in this post are books that will help you learn how to cook, become an epic Pokémon trainer and will unleash your STEM/Maker skills!

Enjoy!


The tickle fingers kidscookbook : hands-on fun in the kitchen for 4-7s.

Focusing on the next stage up, ages 4-7, The Tickle Fingers Children’s Cookbook maintains all of the practical, easy-to-follow, age-appropriate and allergy-friendly advice parents loved in the first book. With over 60 new recipes and activities to inspire and guide parents, grandparents and carers to help young children develop a love of food through cooking and play, it will convince even the fussiest of eaters to try new food and make meals the whole family can enjoy.

The ultimate Pokemon trainer’s guide.

Welcome to the ultimate unofficial guide for every Pokémon trainer! The Ultimate Pokémon Trainer’s Guide is filled to the brim with Pokémon reviews, facts, stats and tips. All the top Pokémon games are reviewed, from Pokémon Go to 3DS classics like Pokémon Ultra Sun and Moon , to the latest Switch titles like Pokémon: Let’s Go, Pickachu! and Pokémon: Let’s Go, Eevee! There’s also a cool look at the wider world of Pokémon, from toys to card games to upcoming movies. There are entries on every single 800+ Pokémon, including strengths, weaknesses and combat stats.

You might also like the movie…

image courtesy of amazon.comPokémon: Detective Pikachu.

The story begins when ace private eye Harry Goodman goes mysteriously missing, prompting his 21-year-old son Tim to find out what happened. Aiding in the investigation is Harry’s former Pokémon partner, Detective Pikachu: a hilariously wisecracking, adorable super-sleuth who is a puzzlement even to himself. Finding that they are uniquely equipped to communicate with one another, Tim and Pikachu join forces on a thrilling adventure to unravel the tangled mystery.

Check out the movie trailer!


STEM Lab.

Get your STEM on with STEM Lab. This book presents over two dozen science activities demonstrating such scientific properties as forces and motion, chemical reactions, shapes and structures, and light and sound.

You might also like…

Maker lab : 28 super cool projects : build, invent, create, discover.

Learn about science in your own home kitchen using everyday materials. Put together a school project or simply make something incredible to share with your friends! — Source other than Library of Congress.

Maker lab outdoors : 25 super cool projects : build, invent, create, discover.

Check out this amazing book that will spark kids’ creativity and help them develop science skills through hands-on learning, bringing science learning home and into the backyard. A must-have for every young scientist curious about their surroundings, and for makers, crafters, and those who enjoy exploring the outdoors.

Culture can mean many things. It can be the clothes you wear, the language you speak and the customs and traditions you hold dear. It may be the difference between going to the movies, the footy or the ballet. Some cultures we are born into, while other cultures we adopt and make our own. Culture plays an important and influential role in our lives – welcome to the big book of Culture!
Meet Maria Toorpakai Wazir, a brave Pakistani girl who pursued her love of sports in spite of being taunted and beaten. When the President of Pakistan gave Maria an award for outstanding achievement, the Taliban threatened her squash club, family, and life. Forced to quit the team, she continued to practice in her bedroom every day for three years! Maria’s story will inspire and empower all children . . . especially girls.

There’s no shortage of stories these days about the impact humans have had on the planet. There’s plastic in our oceans and rubbish in our streets. More and more animals and plants are declared vulnerable, threatened or endangered every year and extinctions are occuring at a rate not experienced since the dinosaurs died off. If we take action now, we’ll be able to help species like the Sumatran tiger and the giant panda in their fight for survival. In this book you’ll learn about all of the dangers facing these creatures, including deforestation and climate change, and also learn what you can do to help change the situation for these amazing animals and plants.
Through a fun mix of in-game and hands-on projects, Unofficial Minecraft Life Hacks Lab for Kids shows kids how to develop the building blocks of positive communication, listening skills, leadership and collaboration traits, emotional empathy, self-confidence and self-control, and how these skills can be used to play positively and build a better world.

8 New Non Fiction to read during winter

Hey Kids! Check out the latest new non fiction at your local library. Books featured in this post range from science and technology; arts and crafts, myths and legends; biographies about inspiring two inspiring female fashion designer and so much more! Just in time for the winterest time of the year!

Enjoy!

Make This!

Time to master your science and engineering skills with Make This! This book is packed with creativity-boosting projects for all kinds of kid creators, such as making a musical instrument, catapult and sun stove.

 

 

 


All about Indonesia.

Introduces Indonesia, describing its history, geography, culture, everyday life, educational system, cuisine, language, and religion, as well as discussing traditional regional costumes, music, and dance.

 

 

 


My first book of haiku poems : a picture, a poem and a dream.

My First Book of Haiku Poems introduces children to inspirational works of poetry and art that speak of our connection to the natural world, and of their own ability to see an entire universe in the tiniest parts of it. It pairs fresh interpretations of 20 classic poems by Issa, Shiki, Basho, and other great Japanese haiku masters with stunning original paintings that both portray and inspire a child’s inner life, and open a door into the world of their own imagination. A fully bilingual children’s book, My First Book of Haiku includes the original Japanese poems (in both Japanese script and Romaji form) on each page alongside the English translation to form a complete cultural experience. Each haiku poem is accompanied by a full page “dreamscape” painting that will be admired by children and adults alike. Commentaries and brief bios offer parents and teachers ready-made “food for thought” to share with young readers and stimulate a conversation about each work


What do you celebrate?

Discover a world of celebrations! This entertaining book introduces kids to 14 holidays, from Brazilian carnival, Chinese New Year, Bastille Day, and the Cherry Blossom Festival to Purim, Holi, Eid al-Fitr, Day of the Dead, and Halloween. As in the popular What’s On Your Plate?, each spread showcases a different holiday, offering background, cultural context, vocabulary words, photographs, and instructions for festive projects.

 

 


Along came Coco.

In a time when children were meant to be seen and not heard, along came Coco, a small French orphan with an eye for style, a talent for sewing, and a big imagination. Coco grew up in an orphanage run by very strict nuns, but she wasn’t very good at following rules. At a time when girls were told to brush their hair 100 times until their arms were sore, Coco promised herself that one day she would snip away her locks so that she wouldn’t have to be so fussy — girls needed time for other things, and they needed some of the comforts that boys enjoyed. Why shouldn’t girls have pockets? And why did they have to wear corsets all the time? An exploration of Coco’s early life and a celebration of her creativity, Along Came Coco shows the ways in which Coco Chanel’s imaginative spirit led her to grow into one of the world’s most beloved fashion icons.


Vivienne Westwood.

Vivienne Westwood always stood up for the outsider–even at school. When she grew up, she created a fashion philosophy that went against the grain and celebrated the music of the moment: punk. Vivienne became a world-famous famous designer by staying true to herself and speaking up for what she believed in. This inspiring story of the outspoken fashion designer’s life features a facts and photos section at the back

 

 


Japanese myths, legends, and folktales.

Tales originally written in English by author Yuri Yasuda based on her interpretations of twelve traditional Japanese stories. Japanese versions of each tale include simple kanji with furigana pronunciations to help learners recognize the characters.

 

 

 


Let’s investigate with Nate: The water cycle.

Ever wonder where water comes from and where it goes? Or why sometimes it rains and sometimes it snows? Then join Nate Ball and his crack team of curious scientists as they shrink down smaller than a raindrop to see first hand what the water cycle is all about.

Wonderful world of Lego!

Lego Fanatics, brace yourself.

Lego mania has been unleashed all around Wellington City Libraries with Lets Go Lego, with the release of The Lego Movie 2; TV show Lego Masters Australia and an outstanding collection of  books that will inspire your Lego creativity… and addiction. Believe it or not, according to Inner Child Learning, Lego Bricks have been applauded by teachers and parents as one of the best toys for learning, building creativity, and strengthening fine-motor skills. Lego Bricks are an open-ended toy, meaning they can become just about anything a child or adult imagines, including an educational tool.

What are you waiting for? Its time to come on down to your local library and unleash your inner Lego master!… by…


Attending one of our Lets Go Lego sessions at the following branches:

Newtown Library: Third Monday of each month, 3.30-4.30pm

Miramar Library: Fourth Thursday of each month, 3.30-4.30pm

Cummings Park (Ngaio) Library: Second Thursday of each month, 3:30-4:30pm.

Khandallah Library: First Friday of each month, 3.30-4.30pm.

Karori Library: Third Saturday of each month, 2.00-3.00pm.

Mervyn Kemp (Tawa) Library: Second Thursday of each month, 3.30-4.30pm.

For further information email WCL enquiries or check out the library event calendar for dates.

 

Borrowing Lego books from your local library, such as:

iamge courtesy of syndeticsLego City : busy word book.

Jam packed with busy and colourful scenes from LEGO City sets and more than 750 words. LEGO City is the perfect place for early readers to encounter plenty of exciting words for the first time, including vocabulary for buildings, vehicles, jobs and activities. Fun, interactive activities such as spotting recurring characters and naming favourite vehicles keep children engaged and encourage repeat reading.

image courtesy of syndeticsGenius LEGO inventions with bricks you already have : 40 new robots, vehicles, contraptions, gadgets, games and other fun STEM creations.

The world of Lego, science and engineering combines with this amazing books that gives you ideas on how to transform your bin of LEGO® bricks into amazing, movable toys, machines and gadgets. It’s easy and fun to build each of these awesome contraptions and games by following the clear step-by-step instructions and photographs. No matter what you end up creating, you’ll learn exciting new things about science, impress your family and have a blast along the way. A must have book and resource to read, especially with Techweek 2019 around the corner!

image courtesy of sydneticsAmazing brick mosaics : fantastic projects to build with the Lego blocks you already have.

“Every LEGO-loving kid has at least one huge bin of bricks the sets are built, dismantled, and typically never built again and this book gives them dozens of ways to reuse them in fun projects that range from easy to challenging. Featuring a simple yet elegant mosaic technique, step-by-step instructions, and full-color photographs for making 25 cool two-dimensional pictures, Amazing Brick Mosaics offers unique projects that will delight any LEGO enthusiast”–Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsBrick city. New York : 20 unofficial LEGO® projects to build!

It’s New York – but not as you know it. This unofficial guide helps LEGO® fans of all ages discover Central Park, the Chrysler Building, Brooklyn Bridge and 17 more landmarks recreated in amazing detail by top brick artists from around the world. Then make your own with 20 quick-build projects that include a hot dog cart, yellow taxi cab and subway train.–Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsBrick city. London : unofficial LEGO® projects to build!

It’s London – but not as you know it. This unofficial guide helps LEGO® fans of all ages discover the Houses of Parliament, Tower of London, Covent Garden and 17 more landmarks recreated in amazing detail by top brick artists from around the world. Then make your own with 20 quick-build projects that include an Underground train, a red bus and fish & chips. –Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsBrick city. Paris : fascinating facts and amazing stories.

It’s Paris – but not as you know it. This unofficial guide helps LEGO (R) fans of all ages discover the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Centre Pompidou and 17 more landmarks recreated in amazing detail by top brick artists from around the world. Then make your own with 20 quick-build projects that include Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur and a Tour de France cyclist.–Provided by publisher.

See previous blog posts, (one and two) for other Lego books in the collection.

Techweek 2019!

image courtesy of techweek.co.nzTechweek19 is back!… and will run from 20—26 May 2019 nationwide. Techweek simply provides a platform to add voices to a growing conversation on global innovation. The theme for Techweek19 is still ‘innovation that’s good for the world’.

For more information about Tech Week and what events are on, visit the website.

In the mean time, if you’re want information on the latest technology and innovations, why not check out the following books in the library collection.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsThe zoom, fly, bolt, blast steam handbook : build 18 innovative projects with brain power.

Rockport’s creative engineering extraordinaire, Lance Akiyama, returns again with Zoom, Fly Bolt, Blast STEAM Engineer and 18 STEAM approved projects to get kids doing, thinking, and building!– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsSelf-driving cars : the new way forward.

“Author Fallon presents a history of how the technology used in self-driving cars has developed, identifies recent technological gains, and surveys recent controversies surrounding the potential mass adoption of self-driving cars.”–Provided by publisher.


image courtesy of syndeticsScience lab : fantastic activities for young scientists.

From building a bridge and crafting a catapult to making a marble run and creating a crane, Science Lab is packed with activities that young readers can do at home to explore, discover, and understand the way the world works. It’s perfect for school projects, homework help, and firing up imaginations.


image courtesy of syndeticsStephen Biesty’s Incredible Cross-Sections.

This children’s book explores the innermost workings of some extraordinary buildings and machines. From helicopters to submarines, skyscrapers to coal mines, open up a fascinating world packed with unique and detailed cutaway drawings.

image courtesy of sydneticsTriumphs of technology.

From the power points in our homes to the mobile phones in our pockets, every aspect of our lives involves ingenious inventions of incredible complexity. Learn all about the inventions and advances in technologies that have helped make our lives a lot easier and discover the inventors and great minds who brought us these new machines in STEM-gineers: Triumphs of Technology.

STEAM lab for kids : 52 creative hands-on projects using science, technology, engineering, art, and math.image courtesy of syndetics

“The creative projects in STEAM Lab for Kids are designed to demonstrate that there’s math and science to be found in great art! From rubber bands to edible stained glass, young engineers and artists alike will find inspiration in these 52 art-forward labs.” — Back cover.


image courtesy of syndeticsEngineering.

Showcases engineering feats throughout history from the pyramids of Ancient Egypt to the building of the Golden Gate Bridge. The book also features famous engineers, including the Wright brothers to Gustave Eiffel. Steam engines, rocket technology, bridges, and buildings are all covered here in this exciting book.

Earthquake Encounters at Te Papa!

Te Papa has some fun filled entertainment for kids that combines learning, fun and gaming!

Te Papa and the Earthquake commission have developed a Minecraft computer game called ShakerMod, which is the world’s first Minecraft Mod that lets you experiment with realistic earthquakes in Minecraft that enables children to develop skills on how to play minecraft; stop an evil corporation from using the destructive power of earthquakes to take over the world; explore the effects of earthquakes and monsters and learn how to keep your home safe.

The game can be played at Te Papa as part of its earthquake education programme, Earthquake Encounters, or downloaded to play at home or at school (users need to have a license for the Minecraft game). 

You can read the press release for more information. In the mean time, why not go down to your local library and have check out the amazing books on earthquakes and Minecraft in the junior non fiction collection. Books in the collection include:

image courtesy of syndeticsEarthquakes! : shaking New Zealand.

“Explains everything about the natural phenomenon, providing information for what to do during an earthquake and exploring some of the earthquakes through history”–Back cover.

iamge courtesy of syndeticsExtreme earthquakes and tsunamis.

An earthquake can shift an entire city three metres, make the Earth spin faster, and send shudders right across the world. It is raw power at work – and then monster waves follow . . . These may travel thousands of kilometres across the ocean, dump ships on dry land, an ruin a million buildings in one fatal whoosh. Find out about the most fearsome earthquakes and tsunamis, their causes and devastating effects, and the latest technology used to detect these hidden terrors. And virtually nowhere on the planet is entirely safe from them.

image courtesy of sydneticsFault lines & tectonic plates : discover what happens when the earth’s crust moves, with 25 projects.

Learn about earthquakes and volcanoes and how the earth’s surface is always changing.

image courtesy of syndeticsEarth-shattering earthquakes.

In Earth-Shattering Earthquakes, readers can explore a world of fearsome faults, shaky ground and shattering shock waves. Discover what it takes to be an earthquake expert, learn how to survive when an earthquake hits, and discover how rats and snakes can predict tremors. Filled with hilarious illustrations by Mike Phillips, Horrible Geography is the perfect escapism from miserable maps, rotten rock piles and dire diagrams. Hold tight!

image courtesy of syndeticsCool builds in Minecraft.

Teaches players how to build fifty different objects in Minecraft, including houses, vehicles, farms, and castles.

IMAGE COURTESY OF SYDNETICSUnofficial Minecraft STEM lab for kids : family-friendly projects for exploring concepts in science, technology, engineering, and math.

“In Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids, you’ll find a collection of creative projects that make learning science, technology, engineering, and math exciting and fun for the whole family. Learn to document your Lab activities with sketchnoting, and how to screencast and narrate videos to share with family, friends, and other Minecrafters. Enjoy Minecraft together–and harness its powerful potential for learning–with Unofficial Minecraft STEM Lab for Kids”– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsUnofficial Minecraft lab for kids : family-friendly projects for exploring and teaching math, science, history, and culture through creative building.

“Includes a variety of creative exercises that explore the game’s aspects and use them to teach fun, educational lessons. Begin the book by brushing up on some common Minecraft language and examining each of the four game modes: survival, creative, adventure, and spectator. Then, use this knowledge to venture off onto the six different quests that encourage child and adult participation.”–Publisher’s description.

image courtesy of syndeticsBuilding a Minecraft city.

Offering young Minecraft enthusiasts the ultimate sandbox experience, Building a Minecraft City gives kids aged 7-11 an outlet to enhance their love of the game and take their creative play to new heights. Brought to you by the trusted For Dummies brand, this kid-focused book offers step-by-step instructions and simple explanations for completing projects that will teach your child invaluable new skills–all while having a ton of fun!

Get down to Earth during the April School Holidays

Explore earth science, learn about the environment, kick back and watch a movie, or let your creative side out to play, during the school holidays at Wellington City Libraries.

 

Let’s Go Lego!

At Let’s Go Lego, your creative skills will be put to the test as you use our Lego collections to design and build your masterpieces. Each session will have a different theme that will inspire you to hone your skills and become a Lego Legend. Bookings not required. Suitable for ages 5+

Monday 15th April, 3.30 – 4.30pm at Newtown Library

Tuesday 16th April 1 – 3pm at Island Bay Community Centre

Thursday 18th April 10am – 12pm at Churton Park Community Centre

Saturday 20th April 2 – 3pm at Karori Library

 

Earth Science 101

Join experts from Victoria University to learn about the amazing geology of our city – rock formations, fault lines, earthquakes and more. Come along prepared to do some hands-on science as well! Suitable for ages 5+.

Monday 15th April 2 – 3pm at Johnsonville Library

Tuesday 16th April 2 – 3pm at Karori Library

Wednesday 17th April 11am – 12pm at Ruth Gotlieb (Kilbirnie) Library

Wednesday 17th April 2 – 3pm at Miramar Library

 

Family Movie

Bring a blanket and pillow, and relax at our fun family movies. A different G rated movie from the library collection will be showing each time, and are suitable for the whole family. Recommended for ages 4+.

Thursday 18th April 4 – 5.30pm and 6 – 7.30pm at Mervyn Kemp (Tawa) Library

 

Easter Rock Painting

Paint up some special rocks to hide around the suburb for Easter. We’ve got the rocks, the paint, the brushes and more, just bring yourself and your imagination! #WGTNRocks. Suitable for ages 4+.

Thursday 18th April 1 – 3pm at Island Bay Community Centre

 

Recycled Art

Let out your inner artist as we use recyclable material to create inspiring artworks from scratch! Join in to make a huge collaborative sculpture, or make your own piece to take home. Suitable for ages 4+.

Wednesday 17th April 2 – 3.30pm at Newlands Community Centre

Thursday 18th April 11am – 12pm at Cummings Park (Ngaio) Library

Wednesday 24th April 10am – 12pm at Churton park Community Centre

Friday 26th April 11am – 12pm Wadestown Library


VR Experience

Virtual reality (VR) offers us a new and exciting way to learn about science and the world around us. Explore the wonders of our planet’s most extreme locations from the comfort of your local library. Numbers are limited, bookings required. Reserve your seats by contacting the event library. Suitable for ages 6+.

Tuesday 23rd April 2 – 3pm at Johnsonville Library

Wednesday 24th April 2 – 3pm at Ruth Gotlieb (Kilbirnie) Library

Friday 26th April 11am – 12pm at Khandallah Library

Friday 26th April 2 – 3pm at Mervyn Kemp (Tawa) Library

 

Green Storytime

Help the library celebrate the lead-up to Earth Day by coming along to this special storytime all about the environment – and how we fit in it! Magical eco-stories and crafts for the whole family to enjoy. Suitable for all ages

Tuesday 16th April 2 – 3pm at Brooklyn Library

Saturday 27th April 11am – 12pm Karori Library

 

 

All events are free. Bookings are not required, except for the VR experience. All children must be accompanied by caregivers at every event.

4 New Non Fiction… and movie trailers just in time for the new year… and summer!

Hey Kids! Christmas and the end of 2018 is just around the corner. Check out the latest new non fiction books about upcoming movies and books that will get your unleash your inner builder and engineer.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of sydneticsTransformers Robots in Disguise: Where Crown City comes to life.

Bumblebee and his team have come to Earth to recapture escaped Decepticons from a prison ship that’s crashed.

Check out the trailer to the latest “Transformers” movie, Bumblebee.

 


image courtesy of syndeticsSpiderman into the Spider-verse.

“There’s a new Spider-Man on the block! Meet Miles Morales, a teenage Spider-Man with super powers as spectacular as his predecessor Peter Parker! Discover everything you ever wanted to know about his astonishing costume, loyal allies and frightening enemies. Find out about his amazing origin story and his fiercest clashes as you learn how he juggles high school life with his status as a Super Hero. Marvel Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse: The Official Guide will cover all of the movie’s memorable characters, plus key locations, themes and fun facts from the movie in DK’s lively and informative non-fiction style.” — ONIX annotation.

Check out the trailer to Spider Man : Into the Spider Verse.



IMAGE COURTESY OF SYNDETICSDC Absolutely Everything you need to know.

Provides a guide to the superheroes and archvillains of the DC universe, featuring such characters as Superman, Batman, Cyborg, Darkseid, Brainiac, John Constantine, and the Joker.

The infographic design of each spectacularly illustrated, double-page feature gives readers a totally new slant on the DC Comics Universe and its super-powered heroes and villains, fantastic weapons, futuristic technology, strange planets, exotic places, and alternate worlds. The punchy, accessible text incorporates key data, fun facts, lists, quotes, and amazing stats, spanning 80 years of DC Comics Super Hero thrills.Information is presented in exciting box styles and illustrated with DC Comics artwork. Themed boxes capture the essence of characters or topics by pinpointing their most unforgettable aspects.

Discover Superman’s strangest powers and Batman’s top death-defying escapes! Find out who wins when Wonder Woman and Cheetah go head to head. Check out The Joker’s best and worst days! Learn the greatest secrets of Aquaman’s undersea kingdom Atlantis! Explore the darkest corners of Arkham Asylum and Apokolips!

These and many more eye-popping revelations and strange, intriguing insights await readers of DC Comics: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know–a book that will inform, delight, and enthrall DC Comics fans of all ages.

Check out the trailer to latest movie from the DC universe, and member of the Justice League: Aquaman.


image courtesy of syndeticsThe Zoom Fly Bolt Blast STEAM Handbook.

Rockport’s creative engineering extraordinaire, Lance Akiyama, returns again with Zoom, Fly Bolt, Blast STEAM Engineer and 18 STEAM approved projects to get kids doing, thinking, and building!– Provided by publisher.