Toy Library plays important role
Whitianga Toy Library has a very important role in the lives of 70 families plus quite a lot of homes where there are grandparents. With over 380 toys available to hire it provides a wonderful service to the mercury bay Community. The library was first opened by Jill Hadland and a founding committee of seven volunteers in August 2000. The original library was located in The Community Board Room of the Council Building in Monk Street. Throughout the years, the toy library has operated from a number of locations, recently moving to its current location at 2 Cook Drive. Under the guidance of the Toy Library Federation of New Zealand (TLFNZ), Whitianga Toy Library (WTL) applied for grants from various organisations to buy toys for the library. There was fantastic support and sponsorship from the local community businesses for the toy library. This support continues today, as many local businesses still contribute to fundraisers and events. Special person and a new venue needed Whitianga Toy Library is currently looking for a Funding Officer, as the applications for grants are necessary to keep the Toy Library in operation. The library operates with the assistance of grants, donations, and fundraising. The toys constantly need upgrading and to be replaced due to wear and tear from frequent use. We also need funds to support our rent payments and overheads. You could be the person we are looking for. New Venue: Unfortunately, the Toy Library has recently learned that they’ll need to move on from the Cook Drive location.
We are now searching for new premises. If anyone can help with Ideas and suggestions, the Toy library Committee will be most grateful.
Opening Hours: Wednesday 9:00am - 1:00pm, Thursday 12 noon - 4:00pm; Friday 12 noon - 4:00pm. Location: 2 Cook Drive,
Whitianga whiti.toylibrary@gmail.com
Link to a blog post about the values and benefits of Toy Libraries
https://www.kristinahunterflourishing.com/ blog/toy-libraries-are-a-step towardssustainable-parenting.
Pictured: Left, Clair Bainbridge, new Librarian and one of the founding volunteers and Shannon Molloy, Treasurer