Bookish Banter

Ep 17 - The One Where It Ends

In our final episode of Bookish Banter, Sarah and Madi open with their current reads before presenting The Biggest Bookishest Banterest Awards of 2025 — a light-hearted look back at the stand-out categories that defined our reading year, from “Most Forgettable Book I Definitely Read” to the “Just One More Chapter” medal.We also share the last instalment of Fons Fun Facts, followed by a reflective discussion on the reading habits and library tasks that shape our work: genres we wish more people explored, where we discover new books, our favourite behind-the-scenes duties, and the library spaces we love most.A warm and thoughtful send-off to the series. Tune in for the final chapter.

Ep 16 - First Line Ranking Returns

In episode 16 of Bookish Banter, Sarah and Madi kick things off with their current reads before diving into a round of thought-provoking bookish questions — from the characters that left a lasting impact to the decade they’d choose to read from forever. Then, they take on a fun challenge: reading the first lines of six booktok books to see which ones spark curiosity. Along the way, they chat about life behind the library desk, favourite genres, and even share a few beloved book quotes. Tune in for library insights, literary games, and plenty of bookish banter!

Ep 15 - Library Events

In episode 15 of Bookish Banter, Sarah and Madi are joined by Sarah Roberts, Burnside Library’s Event Coordinator, to chat about what it’s really like behind the scenes of library events. Sarah shares how she decides which events to put on, the highlights (and challenges) of coordinating them, and her favourite “pinch me” moments on the job. They also dive into dream author guests, comfort reads, and the excitement of planning what’s next. Tune in for a fun, insider look at library event life plus plenty of bookish recommendations along the way!

Ep 14 - Book Discussion Groups

In episode 14 of Bookish Banter, Sarah and Madi are joined by special guest Heather F to chat all things book groups at Burnside Library. They explore how different titles spark conversation, whether it’s the story itself or the group dynamic that brings the magic. Heather shares hidden gems discovered through club picks, reflects on the role of book groups in building community, and even imagines which author—living or dead—she’d invite to a meeting. From memorable moments to unexpected discussions, this episode dives deep into the joy of reading together. Tune in for book club secrets, recommendations, and plenty of banter!

Ep 13 - Library Life Starter Pack

In episode 13 of Bookish Banter, Sarah and Madi are back with a chaotic round of Would You Rather: Library Edition! Would you rather spill coffee on the rare book collection or delete the entire event calendar? Host toddler storytime with zero prep or tech support a massive Zoom talk? It’s a wild ride through library nightmares and magical daydreams.Then it’s time to build the ultimate Library Life Starter Packs! From new mums to retirees to teens on school holidays, they share all the must-know programs, collections, and hidden gems Burnside Library has to offer. Think toy libraries, tech help, book clubs, BookTok reads, and even a library dragon (kind of).Tune in for laughs, library chaos, and a whole lotta love for your local!