Saturday Storytime is a warm, lively early literacy session designed for little ones aged 0-5 and their caregivers. Held in the friendly community setting of Malabar Community Library, this session focuses on developing language, listening and social skills through books, songs and rhymes. It’s an ideal Saturday activity for parents looking to build storytime routines and support their child’s love of reading and learning.
What to Expect
Expect a parent-friendly half hour of engaging picture books, simple songs and lively rhymes that keep toddlers and preschoolers smiling. The session is paced with young attention spans in mind and encourages interaction, movement and shared reading to boost early literacy skills. Storytime also offers a gentle routine that helps children settle into group activities and fosters vocabulary, rhythm and listening — key SEO keywords: storytime, early literacy, library, children.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming; volunteers and library staff guide the session so parents can join in or simply enjoy watching their child explore books. Sessions are suitable for a range of ages within the 0-5 group, with staff adapting activities for babies through pre-schoolers. There is an emphasis on play-based learning, songs and repetition to reinforce learning.
You’ll leave with ideas for reading at home and small activities to continue the learning between sessions. Storytime is social for both children and parents, offering a chance to meet other local families and build community connections in Randwick.
Activity Details
This is a weekly session on Saturdays running for approximately 30 minutes, aimed at children aged 0-5. It’s designed to introduce early literacy concepts through interactive reading and music, and to support parents with simple strategies for reading at home. The tone is playful and inclusive so all children can participate comfortably.
- Age range: 0-5 years
- Duration: ~30 minutes (10:30-11:00)
- Frequency: Weekly on Saturdays, excluding public holidays
No specialist equipment is needed; bring a cosy blanket if you prefer to sit on the floor with your child. The session is casual — arrive a little early to get a good spot, especially if you have a pram or multiple children.
Location and Access
Sessions are held at Malabar Community Library, 1203 Anzac Parade, Matraville, a short drive from Maroubra and surrounding suburbs. The library is a community hub with accessible entry and nearby parking; it’s easy to pop in for a morning activity before weekend plans. SEO keywords here include Malabar Community Library, Randwick and library events.
Accessibility is prioritised: Randwick City Library aims to make events inclusive and can accommodate access needs if contacted in advance. If you need support, the library requests you email or call ahead so staff can arrange assistance. Public transport options serve the area for families travelling without a car.
Space is limited, so the library asks parents to leave prams at home where possible and arrive around 10:20 to set up. Staff may restrict late entry to avoid disrupting the session, so punctual arrival helps your child get the best experience.
Important Information
This is a casual community session and no formal registration is required; however, sessions will not run on public holidays. All children must be supervised by a parent or caregiver at all times for safety. The library may digitally record events; attendance implies consent unless you notify staff beforehand.
Please follow the library’s current health and safety guidelines, which may include Covid-safe measures that can change with short notice. If you have specific concerns about recording or access, contact the library well before the session so arrangements can be discussed and confirmed.
The library requests guests to be respectful of the space and other families, and to collect belongings promptly after the session. Bringing quiet snacks for very young children is fine, but messy food and drink inside the activity area is discouraged to keep the space clean for families.
Booking and Prices
There is no cost to attend Saturday Storytime; the event is free for all families and funded by Randwick City Library. You do not need to book — just arrive on the day and take part. This makes it an easy, low-commitment weekend activity for busy parents looking for educational fun.
Although bookings aren’t required, arriving 10 minutes early is recommended to secure seating and minimise disruption once storytime starts at 10:30. If a session reaches capacity, staff will advise on alternative next steps or suggest the next session.
For enquiries call the library on 02 9093 6400 or check the Randwick City Library website for any updates. The library team is helpful and can confirm any changes to schedule, accessibility arrangements, or special holiday closures.