Pick up a piece of fruit with your books

FREE fruit is now available at Heathcote Library thanks to a program run by Bendigo Community Health Services’ health promotion team.

Library staff are inviting everyone to visit, pick up a book and take home a piece of fruit.

“Our free fruit stand is well stocked with bananas, apples and oranges,” library services officer Ange Graystone said.

“We also have lots of snacking carrots and cucumbers.

“We would love to see everyone come in, browse our books, then take some home along with a piece of fruit.

“What could be better than a delicious apple or banana to accompany a book by your favourite author or a new discovery?

“Although we have temporarily relocated due to the Heathcote Community Hub redevelopment, we still have an extensive range of fiction and non-fiction, adult and children’s books.”

Sports equipment is still available for loan from the library in its temporary location. Photo: Supplied.

The library is located in the Mechanics Institute-Senior Citizens Hall and also has CDs, DVDs, magazines and newspapers available.

Regular services at the library are still in place, including public PCs, printing and the popular Baby Rhyme Time and Storytime sessions.

The Sports Equipment Library remains available for loans.

Although the equipment isn’t on public display due to space limitations, it is all securely stored and staff can access items on request.

There is also a display in the library that outlines the full range of equipment available.

“People sometimes think the sports equipment has disappeared because they can’t see it,” Goldfields Libraries coordinator Elise Wright said.

“But it’s absolutely still there, just ask us, and we’re more than happy to get it out for you.

“Our Seed Library continues to support home gardeners and anyone curious about growing their own food.

“Patrons can borrow seeds, grow them out, and are encouraged to save and return seeds for future borrowers, helping to build a shared, locally adapted collection.

“A range of library books on gardening, seed saving and sustainable growing are also available to borrow.

“The Seed Library is about more than just seeds, it’s about learning, sharing knowledge and giving people the confidence to have a go at growing, whether they’ve got a big backyard or just a few pots.”

Heathcote Library is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 9.30am to 12.30pm, and on Thursday from 9.30am to 5pm.