This is a week which celebrates children's books in all shapes and sizes with a newly-released shortlist of books competing to win the Australian Children's Book Award for 2014.

Many of these highly anticipated and top-quality children's books will feature at this week's Storytime at Wellington Library on Wednesday August 20, with stories, singing and craft for children 0-5 years from 11am.

Story sessions help introduce young children to literacy and numeracy in a fun way as well as encouraging positive social interactions and improving motor skills through simple craft activities.

They inspire imaginations and help children connect to reading as well as being a fun bonding time with parents or carers.

There is no need to register and our weekly story sessions are free so come along and join in the fun!

Schools and playgroups Connect to Reading

Over the next few weeks schools and playgroups are encouraged to book their infants and primary-aged children into a story session which will be tailored to their age group.

With books which have been shortlisted for the 2014 Australian Children's Book Award as well as discussion and craft designed to fuel young imaginations, these will be lots of fun.

Join librarian Amy Swan to celebrate this year's theme: 'Connect to Reading' by booking your group in at Wellington Library today on 6845 2156.

The Music Bus

This Monday, jump on board The Music Bus.

With lots of singing, dancing and fun, The Music Bus will run free music sessions for young children so come down and join in for a very musical morning.

The bus will be parked in the Wellington Library carpark from 9.30am to 12.30am and Wellington Community Children's Centre 12.30pm to 3pm.

This event is brought to you by Wellington Council and Communities for Children.

For more information please contact Maree Thomas on 6840 1734.

Romance on the ridge

Not your average Australian country romance, Ryders Ridge has a medical twist with Dr Daniella Bell finding herself in too remote a place to use her skills and haunted by memories from her life in the city.

Add a cattle station heir with strong arms and a great jawline and things just get even more complicated.

How will Daniella practice medicine on a property so far from town? Will she be able to stay with her new man and face the fears of her past?

Author Charlotte Nash draws you into what has been described as a gripping medical drama with rural charm, so borrow this book today to find out what happens to the spirited heroine of Ryder's Ridge.

Macquarie Regional Library, Wellington Branch, is located on the corner of Maughan and Percy Streets, Wellington.

Phone: 6845 2156

Website: www.mrl.nsw.gov.au

Hours: Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday 9.30am to 12 noon, Sunday closed.