Discover a new first this July at Firstival

This July, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters Libraries invites you to experience something new as Firstival returns with an exciting and diverse program designed to spark curiosity, creativity and connection.

As part of South Australia’s largest celebration of library life, this year’s program brings together a dynamic mix of hands-on workshops, thought-provoking talks and interactive experiences—most of them completely free, making it easier than ever to try something new.

From sustainability and technology to creativity and well-being, Firstival offers something for every interest.

For those drawn to creativity, spoken word artist Matthew Pankhurst will lead two engaging workshops—an Introduction to Spoken Word and Slam Poetry, followed by a deeper dive into performance and technique.

Whether you're picking up a pen for the first time or refining your voice, these sessions offer a supportive space to create and share.

Nature lovers can explore the hidden world of local wildlife in Fantastic Frogs & Where to Find Them, uncovering the fascinating ecosystems along the Karrawirra Pari (River Torrens), or learn how to support injured wildlife through an insightful session with Fauna Rescue SA.

Technology takes centre stage with a series of accessible, beginner-friendly sessions.

Learn the basics of artificial intelligence in Intro to AI, or sharpen your digital awareness in Can You Spot AI?, where you’ll gain practical tips to navigate an increasingly complex online world.

Curious about emerging technologies? Discover how 3D printing works and what it can create, or step behind the scenes of the world’s largest online encyclopedia in Wiki Skills, where you’ll learn how to contribute to Wikipedia yourself.

Sustainability continues with Intro to EV, an informative session exploring the benefits and realities of electric vehicles—perfect for anyone considering making the switch.

Firstival isn’t just about learning something new—it’s also about connection and enjoyment.

Get moving with Wellness in Motion, a session focused on building strength and confidence in a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Or experience something completely different at the Silent Disco, where you can dance the night away in a library setting like never before.

For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the History Road self-guided trails offer a unique way to discover local stories and hidden gems across the City, blending history with interactive fun.

Firstival continues to redefine what a library can be—transforming spaces into vibrant hubs of learning, creativity and community connection.

Whether you're interested in trying a new skill, exploring local culture, embracing new technology or simply meeting like-minded people, this year’s program is your invitation to step outside the everyday.

With events running throughout July across multiple library locations, there’s never been a better time to get involved.

Join us for Firstival 2025 and discover the unexpected.

See full list of events here: Firstival 2026

Jul3

Wiki Skills - Learn to Edit Wikipedia

Friday, 3rd Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow

Step into the world of Wikipedia like never before at our fun-filled Wiki Skills event! Ever wondered how the world’s biggest online encyclopedia actually works?...

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Jul4

Green Connections: Neighbours building Nature

Saturday, 4th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow

Want more nature on your doorstep? Join us for an interactive workshop to discover how the Green Connections pilot is transforming streets into cool, leafy...

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Jul6

Breaking the Ice: Turn an Idea into a Poem!

Monday, 6th Jul 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

Discover the energy of spoken word in this interactive workshop designed for both beginners and emerging writers. You’ll explore the local scene, learn how to...

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Jul7

Fantastic Frogs & Where to Find Them

Tuesday, 7th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow

Fantastic Frogs and Where to Find Them hops into local frog life with Steve Walker from FrogWatch SA—who listens for frogs the way others listen...

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Jul8

Intro to AI

Wednesday, 8th Jul 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

A friendly introductory course designed to explain what Generative AI is, how it works, and what are the major platforms. We also discuss the ethical...

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Jul11

Intro to EV

Saturday, 11th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow

Thinking about switching to an electric vehicle? Join Sally from AEVA for an informative session exploring how EVs are becoming more affordable, practical, and accessible...

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Jul14

Fauna Rescue

Tuesday, 14th Jul 2026•Payneham Library | 2 Turner Street, Felixstow

Join Fauna Rescue of South Australia Inc. for an introduction to the important work of wildlife rescue and conservation. Learn about South Australia’s unique native...

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Jul15

Can You Spot AI?

Wednesday, 15th Jul 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

With AI evolving rapidly, telling what's real from what's AI generated has never been harder. Join our friendly small-group session to learn some handy tips....

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Jul15

Silent Disco

Wednesday, 15th Jul 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

Dance like there’s no noise restrictions. Get ready to groove at a Silent Disco! It’s a dance party like no other—where the music comes through...

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Jul16

You Wrote a Poem; What Next?

Thursday, 16th Jul 2026•St Peters Banquet Hall | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

Discover the energy of spoken word in this interactive workshop designed for both beginners and emerging writers. You’ll explore the local scene, learn how to...

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Jul28

Wellness in Motion

Tuesday, 28th Jul 2026•St Peters Library | 101 Payneham Road, St Peters

Think strength training isn’t for you? Think again. Join us at your local library to try a few of our machines and see for yourself...

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Jul30

3D Printing: An Introduction

Thursday, 30th Jul 2026•Payneham Library, 2 Turner Street Felixstow

Ever wondered how 3D printing works or what you can create with it? This introductory show and tell session will guide you through the basics....

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