Lake Mac Libraries hit the road with Creative Cart

Published on 13 May 2025

A new kind of library experience is rolling into town with the Creative Cart – a colourful, artistically-designed trailer packed with free resources, activities and services.  

Whether it’s preschoolers enjoying story time, families discovering free creative workshops or seniors connecting with library services at community events - the Creative Cart is on a mission to bring imagination and learning to the streets. 

Lake Macquarie City Council’s Coordinator Cultural Experiences Martin Payne said the initiative was all about accessibility and connection. 

“We know not everyone can get to our cultural facilities and activities, so we’re bringing it to them,” Mr Payne said. 

“The Creative Cart allows us to pop up at local markets, festivals, schools, shopping centres and more – making it easier than ever for people to access all the incredible things our galleries and libraries offer, including e-gaming, art activities, literacy programs and more.” 

Since hitting the road, the Creative Cart has made appearances at Lake Mac Carols, the Hunter Sports Centre opening and dozens of preschools, engaging more than 200 kids in early literacy activities and interactive learning sessions.  

Its next adventure will support senior literacy and promote home library services at the Lake Mac Seniors Expo in Morisset this May, as well as surprise visits to shopping centres with themed story times, computer game consoles and more. 

“Wrapped in vibrant artwork by local artist Reid McManus, the trailer is a highly visible community connector on wheels,” Mr Payne said.

Plans are also underway for community members to be able to hire the cart’s services for their next party or event.  

If you’re looking for more ways to connect, create, or collaborate, Lake Mac Libraries and Council have a wide range of community spaces available.

Podcast studios, recording booths, textile workshops, commercial kitchens are just some of the facilities available to hire. 

“Whether you’re an aspiring musician, a start-up needing a quiet workspace or a community group looking for somewhere to meet, we’ve got a space to suit,” Mr Payne said. 

For more information, head to library.lakemac.com.au