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Every year Turn Up the Heat puts a sparkle into our winter. Here's what you need to know.
June 15, 2026 at 12:00 AM
The Flaxmere Library book group shared some mesmerizing reads at their latest get-together.
June 13, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Check out the top reads picked by our Tuesday evening book group.
June 10, 2026 at 12:00 AM
We had another lively session at Hastings Library Book Chat, with even more must-read titles for the bedside table.
June 5, 2026 at 12:00 AM
It's 100 years since the publication of The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie and crime fiction hasn't…
June 1, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Biographies and historical fiction were popular with this Monday morning book group.
May 28, 2026 at 12:00 AM
A century on from her birth, we celebrate the author who gave the world an all-time classic.
April 28, 2026 at 12:00 AM
We found some exciting new series and rediscovered some old ones this month at at the Flaxmere Library book group.
April 23, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Curl up with one of these excellent war-themed reads - all written by New Zealand authors.
April 20, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Our Tuesday evening book club were eager to share some brilliant reads at their March get-together.
April 7, 2026 at 12:00 AM
As we reach the end of daylight saving, we've selected some autumn themed novels to enjoy as the nights draw in.
April 2, 2026 at 12:00 AM
The must-read list has grown, yet again, with another Book Chat get together. Read on for some bookish inspo.
March 30, 2026 at 12:00 AM
What's an epistolary novel, you ask? Let's dive in and find out.
March 26, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Recurring themes around second chances and dark humour came up at our latest Book Chat Session, with a ton of top…
March 23, 2026 at 12:00 AM
A wide variety of recommendations followed a serious political discussion at the latest session of this book group.
March 20, 2026 at 12:00 AM
It's St Patrick's Day, so here are six Irish authors that are consistently brilliant.
March 17, 2026 at 12:00 AM
The group from our Tuesday night book club had plenty to get excited about at their recent meet-up.
March 9, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Blend some fantasy with relatable situations and you can have a riveting read - just what you might find in these…
March 3, 2026 at 12:00 AM
One enthralling read after another sparked some lively conversation at our latest Book Chat
February 24, 2026 at 12:00 AM
We take a look at an author whose books have become must-reads and book club favourites.
February 20, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Here are the latest reads discovered by the eager readers from Book Chat.
February 16, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Here are six excellent literary novels that are also fabulous love stories.
February 12, 2026 at 12:00 AM
While it was sweltering outside, the Tea with Tales book group was happy to be at the library for some more lively…
February 8, 2026 at 12:00 AM
There were a whole lot of new reading highlights as Wine, Books & More got going for another year.
February 2, 2026 at 12:00 AM
These novels are all widely different but each describes a young person's personal journey on the path to…
January 30, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Is there such a thing as too many books? Have a look at this list of recommendations and see what you think.
January 27, 2026 at 12:00 AM
We catch up with the book group that meets fortnightly at Flaxmere Library.
January 22, 2026 at 12:00 AM
The team looked ahead to another year of getting together over books. Here are the books that inspired another…
January 18, 2026 at 12:00 AM
Novellas are becoming increasingly popular - a short form that suits our busy lives. Here are six terrific quick…
January 14, 2026 at 12:00 AM
In case you missed them, here’s a quick overview of some of the fiction that took the top literary prizes last…
January 10, 2026 at 12:00 AM
We took away some excellent book recommendations to see us through till the new year.
December 23, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Jane Austen completed only six published novels, yet her legacy has been huge. Here's a look at some recent…
December 17, 2025 at 12:00 AM
As the summer temperatures began to sour, our Book Chat members found refuge in the shade with some terrific…
December 16, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Mysteries are the perfect way to unwind after the hurley-burley of Christmas. Here are some recent…
December 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The book group Tea with Tales took a break from the cheese scones as they discussed the books that made their…
December 8, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We catch up with the Hastings Library book group which always has some seriously good reads to share.
December 4, 2025 at 12:00 AM
When we think of Scandinavian fiction, we often think of Scandi-Noir - moody and chilling crime fiction. But some…
November 26, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Read on to find out more about the stand-out reads at two recent Book Chat sessions.
November 21, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Tea with Tales had a few binge reads at their November session.
November 18, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our keen bakers had to come up with something special for this month's Bakers Club.
November 15, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our Havelock North book group rediscovers an old favourite and solves a publishing mystery.
November 11, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The first in an occasional series of posts that highlights six books on a theme.
November 8, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Book Chat enjoyed a mix of genres over the month, including some of the newest books in the library, through to…
October 24, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Although the garden needed attention, we still found time to get through a ton of really good books.
October 21, 2025 at 12:00 AM
With only a few weeks to go until the winner is announced, here's a little bit about the prize and the books on…
October 18, 2025 at 12:00 AM
October's session of Tea with Tales brought out some interesting discussions as well as some great reads.
October 15, 2025 at 12:00 AM
A Pulitzer winner, a court case drama and a novel inspired by trees led to thoughts on some "awful truths" from…
October 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
It was mostly thumbs-up with for the last reading month at libraries evening book group.
October 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM
In an occasional series about assorted literary sub-genres, we turn the spotlight on fiction about rural life.
October 2, 2025 at 12:00 AM
As the weather slowly warms up, Flaxmere Library Book Chat has found some terrific fiction to get excited about.
September 24, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Read on for some great reading recommendations.
September 21, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Havelock North Library book group, Young @ Heart, had a lively session discussing books about women connected to…
September 15, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Books to add to the must-read list plus a few to avoid - according to our Tuesday night book group.
September 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We catch up with Tea With Tales and discover some brilliant reading available in large print and audiobook formats.
September 9, 2025 at 12:00 AM
If you like board games, these kēmu are a fun way to improve your te reo skills.
September 6, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Rachel sheds a light on a recent best-seller by an author that's always on her must-read list - read on to see if…
September 3, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Karawhiua is back again - a chance to step outside your comfort zone, give te reo Māori a go, and win prizes…
August 30, 2025 at 12:00 AM
There was no shortage of enticing reading on the table at the recent Book Chat get-together.
August 24, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Here's an author who can write feel-good stories as well as delving into the lives of some extraordinary people.
August 13, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Has The Thursday Murder Club got you hooked? We delve into the subgenre of cosy mysteries featuring amateur…
August 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Mystery, history and memoir were the order of the day at Tea with Tales this week.
August 6, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Check in with the latest from Flaxmere Book Chat for some good mid-winter reads.
August 3, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Read on for more suggestions for this musically inspired challenge.
July 31, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Non-fiction and challenges for Turn Up the Heat inspired the reading choices at this month's book group.
July 28, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Here are some recommended reads that suit this thought-provoking challenge.
July 25, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Turn Up the Heat has inspired a lot of reading at Book Chat this month.
July 20, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Here's a little bit of inspo to help you tick off another challenge on your Turn Up the Heat bookmark.
July 17, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Here’s a look at one of the Turn Up the Heat Challenges with some recommendations you're sure to enjoy.
July 8, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We recommend the best thrillers that also give you something to think about.
July 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The books on the table recently at Flaxmere Book Chat were something of a mixed bag, but there were enough really…
July 3, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Rachel gives us the lowdown on a compulsive crime novel with a brilliant ending.
June 28, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The latest from a cluster of our favourite authors, and more besides, turned up at the June session of Hastings…
June 25, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We look back on the career of one of New Zealand's most highly celebrated authors.
June 20, 2025 at 12:00 AM
From murder mysteries to inspiring memoirs and much more, the crew at Tea with Tales shared some brilliant…
June 17, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Octopus themed books got the conversation going at the latest Young @ Heart get-together at Havelock North Library.
June 13, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The Geeks Guild has become quite a fixture at Hastings Library, introducing players to some amazing new board…
June 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM
There were some stellar reads as well as books that needed time for mulling over at the latest session of Wine…
June 6, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Racheal Reads gives us the low-down on the latest prequel from the world of The Hunger Games.
June 4, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Plots where fire played a key role as well as the trend for dual time-frames in fiction enlivened the chat at our…
June 1, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Hastings Library Book Chat members have been enjoying author talks both locally and at the Auckland Writers…
May 23, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Rachael reviews the eagerly awaited third book in a series that everyone is talking about.
May 13, 2025 at 12:00 AM
As the cooler weather begins to bite, what could be nicer than a chat about books over a cuppa and a scone?
May 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM
It's always a good conversation at Book Chat and all sparked from books. Here are the books that got us chatting…
May 6, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Library Li gives us the lowdown on a book that takes the idea of the escape room to the next level.
May 2, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Books that brought us back to places we loved as well as those that helped us discover new places cropped up at…
April 26, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Wondering what to watch over the long ANZAC weekend? Why not have a look at Beamafilm.
April 24, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Discover the books that were particularly well-thought of at the recent Wine, Books and More book club session.
April 18, 2025 at 12:00 AM
This month's reading highlights were books about real people.
April 15, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We sadly farewell Australian author Kerry Greenwood and take a look at some of her most popular books.
April 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
It's amazing the discussion sparked by the sharing of books. This was certainly the case at April's Tea with Tales…
April 10, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Read on for some bookish recommendations - new and old - from our Wednesday morning book group.
April 5, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our reviewer shares her journey into the world of horror movies as well as a book that has Scream vibes.
April 1, 2025 at 12:00 AM
We had our usual blend of historical fiction and mysteries at our latest Book Chat session, with a couple of wild…
March 28, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The Plight of Readers, Booksellers and Publishers in London During the Blitz
March 25, 2025 at 12:00 AM
A novel in five linked stories about the life-changing experiences a small, community library has on its…
March 18, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Check out the books that were the highlights of the month at our book group dedicated to readers with impaired…
March 15, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at the books that have inspired the return of Poos N Farts Storytime
March 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM
Subtitled 'Everything this Wiggle journey taught me', here's a memoir from one of the original Wiggles, reviewed…
March 7, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Find out what the team have been reading at one of Hastings Library's monthly book groups.
March 3, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Local author, Cristina Sanders is making a name for well-researched fiction from New Zealand history. Our reviewer…
February 28, 2025 at 12:00 AM
This busy group has been reading and talking about a variety of fantastic fiction, both old and new.
February 22, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our February meeting for Tea with Tales showcased a fine mix of fiction and non-fiction recommendations.
February 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our reviewer loved the books, but does the movie measure up? Here's what Library Li thought when Uglies hit the…
February 12, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The latest by Liane Moriarty is always going to get our attention. Here's what our reviewer thought of Here One…
February 11, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Fantasy, romantasy and sci-fi plus an award-winning dystopian novel were among the top reads at the library's…
February 4, 2025 at 12:00 AM
The group at Flaxmere Library Book Chat had some super summer reads to discuss, as a new year of reading got…
January 25, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Hastings Library Book Chat is a small group of avid readers who made the most of the Christmas break to power…
January 20, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Our book groups are off for another year, and starting the ball rolling was Tea with Tales - the monthly book club…
January 9, 2025 at 12:00 AM
Book Chat reflected on another reading year with even more book recommendations to take them into 2025.
December 31, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Let's look at the best True Crime, History and Sport Podcasts beloved by our library staff.
December 27, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Love podcasts? Here are the podcasts that had our library staff "all ears" through 2024.
December 21, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here are all the best reads in Non-Fiction, Poetry YA and More - as selected by Library Staff
December 20, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a snapshot of the fiction books most recommended by librarians after another year of reading.
December 18, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Finishing up the year with a special morning tea, there were some brilliant books at December's Tea With Tales
December 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
It was fiction all the way at the recent Flaxmere Library Book Chat get-together.
December 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Hastings libraries evening book group had plenty to talk about at the last session for the year.
December 6, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Looking for some good book recommendations? The team at Book Chat have it all sorted - plus one or two that might…
December 2, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Recently the 2024 Booker Prize was awarded to Samantha Harvey. Here's a little more about what we thought of the…
November 28, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Sometimes those craft projects can get away on us, particularly the ambitious ones. Li found a charming…
November 25, 2024 at 12:00 AM
These eager readers have enjoyed some great reading over the last month. Here's what they particularly enjoyed.
November 22, 2024 at 12:00 AM
There were some old favourites mixed in with some top new reads at the November meet-up for Tea with Tales.
November 18, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The good people who come to this Book Chat often talk about balancing grittier crime fiction with lighter…
November 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
This group reads an eclectic assortment of genres - here's snapshot of what they talked about at their last…
November 8, 2024 at 12:00 AM
A beautifully crafted story about a young girl who lives in the woods - a perfect read for both young and old.
November 3, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at three helpful books about ADHD for anyone who has had a diagnosis, or is perhaps waiting for a…
October 27, 2024 at 12:00 AM
If you've enjoyed Jane Harper's rural crime stories, here are some authors you might look out for in the popular…
October 23, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Some cracking reads got the conversation going at this month's Tea with Tales catch-up
October 16, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The group at Flaxmere Library Bookchat have been working their way through Kate Rhodes’ crime novels set on the…
October 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here are some books set in, of all places, bookshops.
October 3, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Books centred on family, two novels that inspired screen adaptations and even an All Black biography all turned up…
September 24, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Santa Montefiore has become a favourite author at Book Chat. Here's a look at some of her best loved books.
September 21, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Our Havelock North Library book group, Young @ Heart discovered books that stirred old memories in their recent…
September 17, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The team at Tea with Tales discussed some popular local authors, particularly Charity Norman's new book, at their…
September 14, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here are some reading highlights that have been getting this book group through the winter.
September 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a little bit about Cuppa Tech, the library drop-in sessions for anyone with a tech problem.
September 6, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Discover some top reads recommended by Flaxmere Library's fortnightly book group.
September 3, 2024 at 12:00 AM
This month Baker's Club journeyed back into the past, creating baking from recipes found on Recollect - the…
August 30, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Another month of reading, some youthful reminiscences and a fabulous author event at the library kept the…
August 17, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The group at Young @ Heart have been reading some New Zealand authors - here's a sampling of what they talked…
August 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
July saw some of the book group getting through their tasks for Turn Up the Heat, our winter reading challenge for…
July 28, 2024 at 12:00 AM
We're catching up with Hastings Book Chat who always have the goss on the best reads coming into the library.
July 20, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Turn Up the Heat has introduced some of the readers at Book Chat to some excellent new books.
July 18, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Body of Lies by Sarah Bailey has been selected for the upcoming Together We Read Book Club, which, for two weeks…
July 15, 2024 at 12:00 AM
From a Booker Prize winner to the No. 1 most popular writer in the world, there was a lot to talk about at Tea…
July 7, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Have a look at the amazing books discussed by Hastings Library Book Chat at their June session.
June 27, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Turn Up the Heat is the library's winter reading challenge for adults and it kicks off today. Here are some…
June 24, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The book group that meets every fortnight on a Tuesday is particularly keen on historical fiction. Here's what…
June 20, 2024 at 12:00 AM
If large print or audiobooks are your preferred reading matter, check out what the gang have been reading at Tea…
June 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Find out the books that we got really excited about at the May session of Hastings Book Chat
June 2, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Lessons in Chemistry was a hugely popular novel that took the world by storm. If this was a book that left you…
May 27, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The group at Wine, Books & More have been reading flat out, working their way through multiple book series, the…
May 24, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The tea and scones hit the spot as did some really enjoyable reading matter at the May meet-up of Tea with Tales.
May 20, 2024 at 12:00 AM
These books while on very different themes both fall into the category of truth that is stranger than fiction.
May 17, 2024 at 12:00 AM
What do you read when you've read all the Shardlake books and want more? Here are a few series that might do the…
May 17, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Mystery ingredients were the focus at this month's popular Baker's Club session.
May 15, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Gentle relaxing reading seemed to be just the ticket at the last session of Havelock North Library's Young @ Heart…
May 5, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here’s what the team have been reading at the book group that meets at Hastings Library on the third Wednesday of…
April 30, 2024 at 12:00 AM
If you're feeling a bit bereft after finishing Lucinda Riley's Seven Sisters series, read on for some reading…
April 26, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Tune into Beamafilm for a brilliant selection of ANZAC themed movies and documentaries. Here's a bunch we like the…
April 22, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Yes there were the scones and, of course, the books, but there was also some lively chat about swearing in books…
April 19, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a couple of unputdownable YA novels recommended by Li.
April 17, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here’s a look at a special author that has been doing the rounds at Young @ Heart, the book club that meets once a…
April 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Historical fiction was overwhelmingly the favourite genre at last week's Flaxmere Library Book Chat. Read on to…
April 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
For all things health oriented, you will find a heap of interesting information on Gale Health and Wellness - a…
April 7, 2024 at 2:00 AM
Come along to Havelock North Library to meet Tina Clough and Karen McMillan - two local authors who have new books…
April 3, 2024 at 12:00 AM
We were getting in the mood for autumn with a mix of anecdotes, memories and fabulous reads at the recent meeting…
March 28, 2024 at 12:00 AM
We take a look at a recent series of novels reprising Agatha Christie's famous sleuth, Hercule Poirot.
March 25, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Hastings Library Book Chat discovered some excellent mysteries as well a few historical novels at the group's…
March 22, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Li reviews two YA mystery/thrillers that make for engrossing reading.
March 16, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Check out the latest reading recommendations from the book group that meets fortnightly at Flaxmere Library
March 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Have a peek at the deliciousness on the tea table at the library's recent Bakers Club morning.
March 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Beamafilm, the library resource for streaming movies, TV series and documentaries, has a great selection of films…
March 8, 2024 at 12:00 AM
We're catching up with our Tuesday evening book group for another chance to grow your 'must-read' list.
March 4, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a review of a haunting historical novel set in expat Penang.
March 2, 2024 at 12:00 AM
If you're looking for a good book, chances are you'll find one or two among this list of top reads from Hastings…
February 24, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a review of a powerful and poignant novel, a thoughtful depiction of a tragedy and its aftermath.
February 19, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Historical fiction, mysteries as well as historical mysteries were popular choices at the latest Flaxmere Library…
February 16, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a new book about Douglas Adams for all of you people who know which day of the year we celebrate Towel Day…
February 14, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Baking Club is a popular library event, held on the first Tuesday morning of each month at Hastings Library…
February 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
At the first Young @ Heart Book Club meeting for the year, novels based on a true story seemed to be the order of…
February 11, 2024 at 12:00 AM
You had better keep the tissues handy for these YA novel recommendations from Li.
February 8, 2024 at 12:00 AM
The first meeting of the New Year saw scones and book chat abound...
February 7, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at some of the best in Kiwi film-making that you can watch on Beamafilm - a fine choice for Waitangi…
February 5, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Wine, Books & More had plenty of crime fiction plus a few surprises on the table at their latest meeting, the…
January 27, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Check out these thrilling suspense novels all set in the snow - just the thing to help you forget how hot it is…
January 20, 2024 at 12:00 AM
We take a look at Gale National Geographic Kids, an online resource packed with interesting articles, pictures and…
January 16, 2024 at 12:00 AM
What makes a really good mystery novel? Here's one book that really got everything right alongside another that…
January 13, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Recent meet-ups at Flaxmere Library Book Chat garnered some terrific reading recommendations.
January 10, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Hiking, adventure and endurance are themes in these two books enjoyed by the Havelock North book group who are…
January 3, 2024 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at the books Hastings Library Book Chat talked about at their last get-together for 2023.
December 31, 2023 at 12:00 AM
The team at Wine, Books & More certainly read a variety of books and you can see this in their latest list of top…
December 26, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We discover a wealth of interesting Christmas info through Britannica online, which you can find via the library…
December 24, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Which is best, the book or the movie? This review takes a look at the prequel to the Hunger Games series which…
December 22, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We caught up with our book group for the vision impaired at their December meeting. As usual, there was some…
December 20, 2023 at 12:00 AM
What’s your favourite reading genre? Maybe you like a heart-warming romance or a pacey crime thriller. Have a look…
December 16, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Baking Club is a popular library event, held on the first Tuesday morning of each month at Hastings Library…
December 13, 2023 at 11:59 PM
What kind of books do you like to peruse over the holiday period when the turkey’s been eaten and the Christmas…
December 3, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We recently had a very well attended Readers and Writers Festival here in Hawke's Bay. Here's Miss Moneypenny's…
November 30, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Readers looking for a good book could do worse than check out the recommendations from Flaxmere Library Book Chat…
November 21, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Baking Club is a popular library event, held on the first Tuesday morning of each month at Hastings Library…
November 17, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Tea with Tales is a book group for people with impaired vision who meet on the first Monday of the month. There's…
November 15, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We take a peek at an awesome online resource - the digital version of NZ Geographic magazine, which you can access…
November 13, 2023 at 12:00 AM
A new visual timeline about World War I brings history alive - and it's waiting for you on the library's Recollect…
November 11, 2023 at 12:00 AM
The latest meeting of the Young @ Heart book group was at a café and fuelled by great coffee they had plenty of…
November 9, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Catch up with the eager readers that meet every third Wednesday at Hastings Library.
November 1, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We take a look at Ann Patchett's latest novel, a contemplation on love, marriage and family and the choices we…
October 28, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We check in with the evening book group: Wine, Books & More to see what books they've been excited to recommend.
October 19, 2023 at 12:00 AM
The Havelock North Young at Heart book club meet on the first Thursday of the month. Here are the top picks from…
October 16, 2023 at 12:00 AM
On the anniversary of Katherine Mansfield's birth, here's a look at a gorgeous book about the iconic New Zealand…
October 14, 2023 at 12:00 AM
See what they've been reading at this month's Tea with Tales - the Hastings Library book group of readers with…
October 12, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Gale Books and Authors is packed with user-friendly info for all book lovers - and it's a free online resource you…
October 3, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Old favourites like Diana Gabaldon and Tim Winton as well as new releases found their way to the table at Hastings…
September 30, 2023 at 12:00 AM
This book club has been meeting at Havelock North Library for over a decade. They always enjoy a wide selection of…
September 23, 2023 at 12:00 AM
What are you reading this Spring? Here's an assortment of novels that you might find appealing as the weather…
September 19, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at one of the library's popular programmes that helps people get to grips with their techy problems.
September 15, 2023 at 12:00 AM
From learning Chinese to finding out about Chinese culture or history, the library's a good place to start for…
September 11, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Tea with Tales is the monthly book group held at Hastings War Memorial Library for people with significant vision…
September 9, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Extraordinary stories of survival sat next to cosy crime novels and swashbuckling historical fiction at our last…
September 9, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Have a look to see what the bookworms have been recommending at Flaxmere Book Chat. You're sure to pick up a tip…
September 6, 2023 at 12:00 AM
One viewer looks at some of the highlights from a year of streaming Beamafilm.
September 2, 2023 at 12:00 AM
You never know what's going to turn up on the table at our popular evening book group, Wine, Books and More.
August 30, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Discover new browsing possibilities with libbyapp.com
August 27, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Bakers Club is a popular library event, held on the first Tuesday morning of each month at Hastings Library…
August 23, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Take a look behind the scenes at a massive project involving the library's archives.
August 19, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Flaxmere Library has a keen bunch of readers that meet fortnightly on a Tuesday morning for Book Chat. Here are…
August 12, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Ahead of the library's special reboot of Poos and Farts Storytime, we reflect on a genre that can be guaranteed to…
August 8, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at some of the library books and online resources for learning about the Cook Islands language…
July 30, 2023 at 12:00 AM
See what our popular evening book group has been reading.
July 22, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Nicola Kenny has turned her digi-tech experience into an engaging new series of children’s books.
July 16, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Here's a hand to help you select a book for the TUTH Unreliable Narrator Challenge.
July 12, 2023 at 12:00 AM
If you’re interested in international politics and current affairs, here’s a library hosted database you might…
July 8, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We check in again with the book lovers at Hastings Book Chat to see what they recommend.
July 1, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We take a look at the books that have made Barbara Kingsolver one of the world's best-loved authors of literary…
June 20, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Here's the perfect book group for when you can't get to book groups in real life. This year it is also a Turn Up…
June 13, 2023 at 12:00 AM
We caught up with Hastings Book Chat to see what books have kept them up at night lately.
June 9, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Here's what we thought of Patrick Gale's latest book, a look at the life of Cornish poet Charles Causley.
May 25, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Yet again, a wide range of reading made it to the table at last month’s Wine, Books & More, our monthly Tuesday…
May 12, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Nerdvana is our annual tribute to all things nerdy. From VR gaming to Cosplay; D&D to Anime - you get the picture…
May 3, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Popular crime novelist Anne Perry died earlier this month. We look back on Anne Perry's long career as an author…
April 26, 2023 at 12:00 AM
See what the team have been reading at Wine, Books & More - the library's Tuesday evening book club.
April 22, 2023 at 12:00 AM
After a small hiatus in Book Chat get-togethers, it was fantastic to see the group again and talk about our…
April 5, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Booklovers are often attracted to a book which has the word "library" in the title. Our reviewer, Lara, gives us…
March 29, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Mrs Jewell and the wreck of the General Grant is a historical novel based on an actual shipwreck which occurred…
March 21, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Read on to discover even more fabulous books. Here's what else the crew at the Wine, Books & More book group have…
March 3, 2023 at 12:00 AM
The well-read folk who attend Tuesday evening’s Wine, Book & More book club at Hastings Library sure get through a…
February 24, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Hastings Library Book Chat began the new year with some amazing books and some lively discussion. Find out what…
February 4, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Our favourite non-fiction reads of the last year seem to divide neatly into two types of reading matter - personal…
January 26, 2023 at 12:00 AM
If you want to try some of the best fantasy and science fiction novels at the library, this could be the list for…
January 21, 2023 at 12:00 AM
If you fancy curling up with a lovely, warm-hearted read, you might try one of these novels recommended by the…
January 13, 2023 at 12:00 AM
Historical novels are always popular, and with such a huge range of places and periods to choose from, there's…
January 7, 2023 at 12:00 AM
These are the books that impressed us for their originality, the cleverness of the writing, and the power of the…
December 31, 2022 at 12:00 AM
These are the books we loved that tend to be about people in everyday modern life - stories that are easy to…
December 24, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We're finishing off the year with a look at the books that have hit the spot with our library staff, beginning…
December 17, 2022 at 12:00 AM
If you're looking for some book recommendations, you could do worse than check out what the team has been reading…
December 8, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We've had copies of the book, Where the Crawdads Sing in the libraries for a couple of years and they're still…
November 30, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The author who brought us 'The Appeal' gives the reader a second puzzling crime novel that will keep you guessing.
November 24, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Our annual Book Lovers Night is on the 23rd of November. Our guest author on the night is Nafanua Kersel, whose…
November 17, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Hana gives us the lowdown on Dinovember - a very important month on the library calendar or indeed any calendar…
October 31, 2022 at 12:00 AM
I'm not sure when I've seen such a curious variety of books as this list of recommended reads from the group that…
October 27, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Bake from a library book - so many to choose from!
October 10, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's what the group from Flaxmere Book Chat have been talking about lately.
October 8, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Our reviewer and David Bowie fan has a gander at the latest book about rock's eternal chameleon, chronicling the…
September 30, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's a philosophical sort of novel that will take you down the canals of England, from the author who gave us…
September 24, 2022 at 12:00 AM
An honest book about closed adoption in New Zealand.
September 19, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We bake with vegetables and Emma's cookies turn green
September 15, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Hastings Book Chat meets just once a month on the third Wednesday of the month and for these keen readers, there’s…
September 2, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Writing can be a solitary activity. But every so often writers feel the need to get together in small group…
August 27, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Emma writes about a mysterious cheeseless cheese cake she tried at August's Baking Club.
August 18, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Always on the look-out for interesting themes for children's Storytime, our team have collated a bunch of books…
August 15, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's a look at one of the books that recently made The Booker Prize longlist. If you're worried that this means…
August 5, 2022 at 12:00 AM
This is the final category in this year's NZ Book Awards for Children and YA. It’s amazing that three of these…
July 29, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The Wright Family Foundation Te Kura Pounamu Award recognises the best in books for children written in te reo…
July 24, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Wonderful artwork can really make a story. These are the books on the shortlist for the Illustration award in this…
July 16, 2022 at 12:00 AM
You'll spot some familiar names in this year’s line-up for the NZ Book Awards for Children and YA Non-Fiction…
July 12, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Emma shares poetry collections our staff have loved.
July 9, 2022 at 12:00 AM
I don’t know how the judges are going to decide on a winner for this year’s Young Adult Fiction Award – a hotly…
July 8, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We’re taking a look at the Picture Book Award in our second post on the NZ Book Awards for Children and YA. Always…
July 4, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We’re running a few posts on the books that have made the finals in the NZ Book Awards for Children and Young…
June 28, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The group at Flaxmere Library Book Chat have had enjoyed some terrific reads in recent weeks. Here are just a few…
June 17, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The latest Vera Stanhope mystery and number nine in Cleeves's super-popular series is the perfect book you can…
June 10, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Emma tastes her way around the world
June 8, 2022 at 12:00 AM
A novel about a fictional Hollywood star that reads like a memoir. - our reviewer will have you putting this one…
May 26, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here’s a snapshot of the books that recently made the shortlist for the 2022 Women’s Prize for Fiction. Formerly…
May 4, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's the pick of the bunch from a great list of books the group have been sharing at Book Chat.
April 30, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Take a trip back to 1995 with a diary written by rock influencer, Brian Eno, with some oddly interesting insights…
April 27, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's some fiction just perfect for that Easter break, or anytime really, all available at the library.
April 13, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Since his death, Bowie has inspired a bunch of books, like this book of andecdotal encounters from Bowie obsessive…
April 10, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The library has a great selection of movies from a wide range of genres. Here's a quick review of two French…
April 3, 2022 at 2:00 AM
These are the books we read with a torch under the bedcovers, thinking, "just one more chapter".
April 1, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's an assortment of old favourites that have been treasured for all kinds of reasons including story…
March 27, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here are our favourite early readers - the books that first got us or our children launched into independent…
March 23, 2022 at 12:00 AM
We're celebrating Children's Book Day on 2 April by sharing the children's books we loved when we were small. Such…
March 18, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's look at two graphic novels that take you into the world of the Watchmen.
March 16, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The new Kate Quinn novel looks at the important work of three women code breakers of Bletchley Park, their…
March 12, 2022 at 12:00 AM
JAM is happy to discover a new book from Marika Cobbold, an entertaining novel about fake news and the trouble it…
March 3, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Graphic Novel fans will be sure to recognise the Fables series by Bill Willingham. Rob reviews this classic…
February 19, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here's how to keep track of all those books you want to read using My Lists.
February 11, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here are some brilliant self-help book recommendations from Andrea, who doesn't read a lot of non-fiction but…
February 4, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Claire Fuller recently won the Costa 2021 Novel Award for Unsettled Ground. Here's what our reviewer, JAM, thought…
January 24, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Our first Book Chat for the year was at Flaxmere Library where the group got off to a flying start with some…
January 17, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Hastings District Libraries recently interviewed Marie Munro whose book "Nana's Shed" - "The Wharau of Kui…
January 14, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Our Li reads a lot of books so her top selection from 2021 is bound to be interesting.
January 12, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Here are some of the best non-fiction and graphic novels we read as well as one serious disappointment as we wrap…
January 8, 2022 at 12:00 AM
The YA section of the library is well worth checking out for some thought-provoking and entertaining reads. Here…
January 3, 2022 at 12:00 AM
Including genres of science fiction and fantasy these books are packed with interesting worlds - some of them huge…
December 30, 2021 at 12:00 AM
There's nothing like a good mystery or a ripping yarn packed with suspense. This is a very mixed batch of novels…
December 27, 2021 at 12:00 AM
When we live in uncertain times, it can be a blessing to escape into a book to another time and place, where…
December 24, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Contemporary Fiction is one of those terms we give to books that are not any particular genre but tend to mirror…
December 21, 2021 at 12:00 AM
We've been asking library staff the tough question: What books did you enjoy most in 2021? We'll be running a…
December 17, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Every year there’s a swag of new books with a Christmassy theme, just perfect when you want to take a break from…
December 15, 2021 at 12:00 AM
A new series of Irish detective stories begins with this novel set in 1980s Dublin. Fans of Benjamin Black and…
December 14, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Our reviewer had his first experience of an e-audiobook with this sci-fi thriller and surprised himself with how…
December 10, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Bluetooth is shortwave wireless technology that can connect devices. Did you know that many hearing aids have this…
December 7, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Wine Books and More met again after a spell of several months so they had a lot of bookish conversation to catch…
December 5, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Many readers enjoy screen adaptations of books, but if you’re like me, you prefer to read the book first – just in…
November 30, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Flaxmere Book Chat met up again for the first time in a while, eager to share and discuss their favourite reads…
November 20, 2021 at 12:00 AM
According to the blurb, Esther Freud's latest novel is 'about love, motherhood, secrets and betrayal - and how…
November 8, 2021 at 12:00 AM
This is the eighth in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Library Li
November 1, 2021 at 12:06 AM
This is the seventh in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
-Library Li
November 1, 2021 at 12:05 AM
This is the sixth in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
November 1, 2021 at 12:04 AM
This is the fifth in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
November 1, 2021 at 12:03 AM
This is the fourth in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
November 1, 2021 at 12:02 AM
This is the third in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
November 1, 2021 at 12:01 AM
This is the second in a series of blog posts focussed on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
November 1, 2021 at 12:00 AM
One murder. Fifteen suspects. Can you uncover the truth? A clever debut that puts the reader into the minds of two…
October 29, 2021 at 12:00 AM
This is the first in a series of blog posts focussing on Advanced Pre-Teen Readers (APTRs)
- Emma L
October 28, 2021 at 12:00 AM
A book about "Pop songs", not the top ten on the hit parade, but the songs by Iggy Pop. 'Til Wrong Feels Right…
October 15, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Here's our review of a novel about a small community, the families that live there and what happens when different…
September 28, 2021 at 12:00 AM
A brilliant selection of new crime/mystery books (fiction and non fiction) made the Ngaio Marsh longlist this…
September 22, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Here's a pacey read which teams a New York college girl with a small problem with a reclusive alcoholic former spy…
September 20, 2021 at 12:00 AM
It's been a few months since we had an update on the reading habits of our Wine Books and More attendees. Let's…
August 30, 2021 at 8:00 AM
Our reviewer happened upon this e-audiobook when browsing the library's e-collection and was pleasantly surprised…
August 27, 2021 at 12:00 AM
There's nothing like curling up with a book as winter sets in. Flaxmere Book Chat has been reading some terrific…
August 19, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Read our review of this authorised biography of The Who's John Entwistle by Paul Rees, music journalist. Entwistle…
August 15, 2021 at 12:00 AM
The longlist is out for the 2021 Man Booker Prize. Often considered the cream of the crop of the fiction awards…
August 10, 2021 at 12:00 AM
If you're doing the Turn Up the Heat reading challenge this year, you may have come across the task: Millennial…
July 29, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Librarians and booksellers alike sometimes get challenging requests for a book, including the much quoted line: "I…
July 15, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Looking for some book ideas for the TUTH challenge: Millennial Problems? The Famoux by Kassandra Tate could fit…
July 11, 2021 at 12:00 AM
In an undisclosed small American town strange things are afoot. An unlikely trio try to get to the bottom of…
July 5, 2021 at 12:00 AM
Rāhoroi 29th Haratua Saturday 29th May, standing at the waharoa of Waipatu marae, the kaikaranga calls us on, we…
June 4, 2021 at 12:00 AM
“She just wanted – had always wanted – a good book to read.”
March 25, 2021 at 12:00 AM
I have always admired origami and have been slightly (read more than slightly) jealous of people who could…
March 24, 2021 at 12:00 AM
From picture books to young adult to adult fiction and some seriously thought-provoking non-fiction, Emma picks…
March 20, 2021 at 12:00 AM
I’ve been on a Stephen King binge this year – my ultimate goal is to read all of his works within in next couple…
March 18, 2021 at 12:00 AM
JAM reviews Isabel Allende's latest historical novel.
It's a moving love story set in difficult political…
March 17, 2021 at 12:00 AM
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