Library News
End of Year Library Returns
At the time of writing, we have only 57 student loans outstanding. A big thank you to the Ironside community for returning your library resources! If you still have a library book at home, please return it as soon as possible. Your help ensures students start the new year with access to the books they love.
Year 4 Library Pen Pals Meet Author Pip Harry
Our Year 4 Library Pen Pals recently had an exciting opportunity, a live Zoom session with award-winning author Pip Harry! Pip generously donated her time to connect with our students, making this a truly memorable experience.
In preparation for the session, the Pen Pals wrote thoughtful questions to ask Pip. During the session, Pip shared fascinating insights into her writing journey, including:
- Her inspiration to become a writer
- How she comes up with ideas for her stories
- Which book was the hardest to write and why
The students were captivated by Pip’s honesty and creativity, and they left feeling inspired to explore their own storytelling skills.
A huge thank you to Pip Harry for being our Pen Pal this year. We are so lucky to have had you share your wisdom and passion for writing with our students this year.
Dive Into Summer Reading
Summer holidays are the perfect time to relax, explore new worlds, and spark your imagination through books. Whether curled up in a cozy corner or out and about in Brisbane (or beyond), there are plenty of ways to read this summer. Here's some fun ideas:
1. Read around Brisbane
Visit a local bookshop - you could even join their book club
Museum of Brisbane – explore interactive exhibits and create your own mini collection inspired by stories. Free entry
QAGOMA Children’s Art Centre - enjoy art activities linked to storytelling and creativity
State Library of Queensland - What's on
- Visit your local Brisbane City Council Library and discover a fantastic range of events. We’re especially excited about these upcoming activities at Toowong Library:
- Make and create: Christmas
- Story explorers: Junior detectives
- Writing wild characters and settings with Tina Strachan - Tina Strachan is an Australian children’s author of Neeka and the Missing Key!
2. Reading Ideas for Home
- Create a Summer reading bingo - fill a grid with challenges like Read under a tree, Read a book by an Australian author, or Swap a book with a friend
- Start a family book club - choose a short novel or picture book and discuss it over a picnic
- Storytime in the park - Bring your favorite books to a local park and read together
3. Join Brisbane City Council Libraries’ Summer Reading Program
Brisbane City Council libraries are hosting their free Summer Reading Program. Registrations for the Summer Reading program are now open.
UQ Bookmark Competition
Our friends at UQ have got in touch about their Bookmark Competition. Did you know Ironside students have had several winning entries? Could you be next?
The competition design entry form is attached, which includes instructions on how to submit you entry by Friday 12 December 2025. (Entries are submitted directly to UQ).
