The library played host to a popular author and animation workshops, taking events to Parkes Public, Middleton, Parkes East, Parkes High, Trundle Central and Saint Patrick's schools.

Jack Heath is an internationally bestselling author.

He wrote The Cut Out, the Countdown To Danger series and 14 other action-packed thrillers for young people, which have been shortlisted for multiple awards and published in several languages around the world.

His energetic session with students from Trundle, Parkes and Bogan Gate had the children in fits of laughter.

Jack had sound advice for the students about writing.

Coming up with ideas comes from leading an interesting life, being open and seeing what is going on around you.

He also believes you have to make time for thinking.

According to Jack "boredom breeds creativity".

Toonworld, an organisation based in Sydney, specialises in cartooning and animation workshops.

Middleton, Parkes High, Parkes Public and Parkes East students had the opportunity to make their own clay characters, then – in "production companies" – create an animated movie, including designing backgrounds, props, simple storyboards and a script to bring their movies to life!

The students were encouraged to think outside the box and of course Elvis featured in many of the movies.

The movies the students created are available for viewing on YouTube at www.youtube.com/c/toonworldkidsaus.

Parkes Shire Library's month-long celebration of curiosity and wonder was all about bringing new experiences to the community.

The hope is to provide opportunities to learn new skills, to engage with inspirational professionals, broadening the community's experiences in life.