Mount Gambier Library will join 130 libraries across South Australia in celebrating Firstival, a month-long statewide 'festival of firsts' held annually throughout July.
Now in its fourth year, Firstival encourages South Australians to visit their local library, try something new and participate in a range of hands-on experiences.
City of Mount Gambier Community Development Coordinator Kristi Brooks said the program highlights the evolving role of libraries in the community.
"The program showcases activities that go beyond what many people traditionally associate with library services, highlighting libraries as vibrant community hubs for learning, creativity and connection," Mrs Brooks said.
Mount Gambier Library's 2026 Firstival program features a range of activities for children, youth, adults and families, offering opportunities to develop new skills, explore creative pursuits and enjoy unique social experiences.
"For our youngest audience, we are pleased to partner with the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre to present Bub's First Gallery Tour. This specially curated experience invites parents and caregivers to explore the Thumbprint Collective exhibition while their babies engage with tactile materials designed to spark curiosity and early sensory discovery."
Children can also take part in activities including scrapbooking workshops and a dinosaur dig experience, while youth participants can play in their first table tennis tournament, delivered in partnership with the Mount Gambier Table Tennis Club. Suitable for everyone from emerging players to the casual enthusiast, the event offers an introduction to competitive play.
There is also an opportunity for people aged 15 to 25 to test their skills during a special after-hours heist event.
"Think escape room with a twist; full of double agents, laser grids and a series of challenges as participants try to pull off the biggest heist this side of Hollywood," Mrs Brooks said.
"Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from unique experiences such as 'Catch Your First Big One' with local fishing identity Jamie 'Coatsy' Coates from Spot On Fishing Tackle and Outdoors - a chance to discover some local insider tips on location and tackle to help you bag that big one."
Another highlight is an evening of performed literature with writer, performer, comedian and funeral celebrant Tracy Crips.
"Tracy explores themes of family, creativity, grief, ageing and the enduring bonds between mothers and daughters through humour and storytelling at Metro Bakery and Café."
The program also includes virtual reality (VR) experiences, opposite art workshops, adult colouring sessions, an evening uncovering the quirky history of Mount Gambier's forgotten bars at Macs Hotel and a practical workshop on identifying misinformation and disinformation in today's digital world, delivered in partnership with the ABC and inspired by the series The Matter of Facts.
For a full list of Firstival events, pick up a program from the Mount Gambier Library, download a copy from the Library website, or follow the Mount Gambier Library on Facebook.
