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Throughout the school year, there are many opportunities to engage students with meaningful celebrations that foster curiosity, inclusivity, and a love of learning. In this blog, we highlight key Term 3 dates across Australia and New Zealand that you can celebrate in your school library, paired with thoughtful book suggestions to support discussion and exploration.
From NAIDOC Week to Book Week, and from environmental awareness initiatives to days that celebrate science, friendship, and cultural literacy, your library can be the hub for vibrant displays, reflective reading, and student connection.
To support you, we’ve created a range of downloadable news pages in Oliver, ready for you to share with your students directly via your library news page.
NAIDOC Week, observed from the first Sunday in July to the following Sunday, celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This significant event promotes understanding and recognition of Indigenous cultures. We have a news page available in Oliver to keep your students updated on NAIDOC Week.
World Youth Skills Day aims to raise awareness about the importance of empowering young people with skills for employment, entrepreneurship, and lifelong learning. To support this day, we recommend the book "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance" by Angela Duckworth. This insightful book emphasises the value of developing skills and cultivating a resilient mindset to achieve success.
Catholic Education Week highlights the importance of Catholic education and its impact on students, families, and communities. For this celebration, we suggest the book "Educated" by Tara Westover. This memoir chronicles the transformative power of education and the journey of self-discovery.
These days encourage environmental awareness and the importance of tree planting for a sustainable future. To support these initiatives, we recommend "The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever" by H. Joseph Hopkins. This inspiring picture book tells the story of Kate Sessions, who helped transform San Diego into a lush, green city.
International Friendship Day celebrates the value of friendship and promotes kindness, understanding, and solidarity. To embrace this spirit, we recommend "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio. This heart-warming novel teaches empathy, acceptance, and the power of true friendship.
Jeans4Genes Day raises funds for genetic research and supports children living with genetic diseases. To support this cause, we recommend "The Gene: An Intimate History" by Siddhartha Mukherjee. This book explores the captivating history and the future implications of genetics in our lives.
Education Week celebrates the transformative power of education and the achievements of students and educators. To mark this occasion, we recommend "The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath. This book explores how educators can create meaningful and memorable learning experiences for students.
Keep Australia Beautiful Week aims to inspire communities to take action in preserving and maintaining a clean and sustainable environment. For this occasion, we recommend "The Art of Frugal Hedonism: A Guide to Spending Less While Enjoying Everything More" by Annie Raser-Rowland and Adam Grubb. This book provides practical tips and insights on living a sustainable and fulfilling life while reducing waste and consumption.
World Indigenous People's Day is a time to honour and celebrate the rich cultures, histories, and invaluable contributions of Indigenous peoples from around the globe. In recognition of this special day, we invite you to support the Indigenous Literacy Foundation by exploring their online shop and purchasing a book pack.
The Indigenous Literacy Foundation offers an extraordinary collection of books that showcase Indigenous storytelling by young authors from the Northern Territory and Tiwi Islands. These captivating books not only provide a window into the vibrant worlds and perspectives of Indigenous communities but also contribute to supporting literacy programs in remote communities.
National Science Week promotes scientific exploration, discovery, and engagement. To foster curiosity, we recommend "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot. This thought-provoking non-fiction work explores the impact of the HeLa cell line on medical research while raising ethical questions about consent and scientific progress.
Children’s Book Council Book Week celebrates Australian children's literature and encourages a love of reading. This year, the theme is Symphony of Stories! Join the conversation and share the joy: #CBCA2026 #2026CBCASymphonyofStories
Daffodil Day raises awareness and funds for cancer research and support services. To support this cause, we recommend "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green. This poignant young adult novel explores themes of love, hope, and resilience in the face of cancer.
The 40 Hour Famine is a fundraising event that raises awareness about global hunger and supports initiatives to combat it. To inspire empathy and understanding, we recommend "A Long Walk to Water" by Linda Sue Park. This powerful book tells the story of two Sudanese children, separated by time but connected by the struggle for survival and access to clean water.
Save the Koala Month aims to raise awareness about the conservation of koalas and their habitats. To learn more about these iconic Australian animals, we recommend "Koala Hospital" by Suzi Eszterhas. This engaging children's book takes readers on a journey to a real-life koala hospital, highlighting the efforts made to protect and rehabilitate these unique creatures.
Australian National Flag Day commemorates the day the Australian flag was first flown in 1901. To honour this occasion, we recommend "Flags of the World" by Sylvie Bednar. This informative book explores flags from different countries, including the Australian flag, and provides fascinating insights into their meanings and symbolism.
Indigenous Literacy Day focuses on improving literacy levels and book access for Indigenous children in remote communities. To support this day, we recommend "Welcome to Country" by Aunty Joy Murphy and Lisa Kennedy. This beautifully illustrated book introduces readers to the concept of the Welcome to Country ceremony and the significance of the land in Indigenous culture.
Father's Day celebrates the love and importance of fathers and father figures in our lives. To celebrate this day, we recommend "My Dad Is Amazing" by Sabrina Moyle. This delightful children's book highlights the special qualities and unique bond between fathers and their children. Don’t forget to check out our blog on how to celebrate Father’s Day in your school library.
National Child Protection Week raises awareness about the importance of protecting children and promoting their well-being. For this week, we recommend "Some Secrets Should Never Be Kept" by Jayneen Sanders. This sensitive picture book addresses the topic of body safety and empowers children with knowledge on how to stay safe and seek help if needed.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action dedicated to promoting mental health and encouraging conversations around mental well-being. To support this day, we recommend "The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse" by Charlie Mackesy. This heartwarming illustrated book explores themes of empathy, friendship, and the importance of checking in on one another.
White Balloon Day is an initiative aimed at raising awareness about child protection and preventing child abuse. To support this cause, we recommend "Speak Up!" by Miranda Paul. This empowering picture book encourages children to find their voices, speak up about their feelings, and seek help if they ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
Roald Dahl Day celebrates the beloved children's author Roald Dahl and his imaginative stories. To commemorate this day, we recommend "Matilda" by Roald Dahl. This timeless classic tells the story of a brilliant and resilient young girl who discovers the power of books, knowledge, and standing up for what is right. Also, check out our “What are you doing for Roald Dahl Day” blog that is packed with great ideas on how to celebrate.
National Bilby Day raises awareness about the conservation of bilbies, an endangered marsupial native to Australia. To learn more about these fascinating creatures, we recommend "Bilby Moon" by Margaret Spurling. This engaging children's book follows the adventures of a young bilby as she explores the Australian outback under the light of the full moon.
Talk Like a Pirate Day is a fun and light-hearted celebration of all things pirate. To join in the spirit, we recommend "Pirates Love Underpants" by Claire Freedman and Ben Cort. This hilarious picture book combines pirates and underwear in a whimsical adventure that is sure to tickle the imaginations of young readers.
The International Day of Peace promotes global peace, harmony, and understanding. To honour this day, we recommend "The Peace Book" by Todd Parr. This colourful and engaging picture book celebrates the beauty of diversity, kindness, and the power of coming together to create a peaceful world.
Your school library is more than just a place to borrow books. It is a vibrant learning hub that supports literacy, wellbeing, and lifelong learning. Celebrating special days creates opportunities to bring stories to life, introduce students to new perspectives, and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
These moments help your library shine as a space for exploration, reflection, and connection.
We’d love to see how your library brings these events to life. Whether it’s a creative display, themed storytime, or student-led activity, send us your stories, photos, or videos.
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Thank you for all you do to support students and champion the role of school libraries.
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