Waiouru to have toy library soon

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 12, Issue 577, 14 March 1995, Page 13

Waiouru to have toy library soon

By

Michele

Monaghan

The Waiouru branch of the Plunket Society has had a poor response to a questionnaire about setting up a toy library. President Julie Batt said that the poor response is typical for Waiouru and the toy library, aimed at under fives, will go ahead anyway. Mrs Batt said she didn't think people were aware of what exactly a toy library would offer them. "We'd provide things that most families don't buy," said Mrs Batt. "Big things like see-saws and ride-ons like the Flinstones. We' re intending to buy very sturdy things that won't need replacing in 12 months." Mrs Batt said the toy library would provide families with the chance to try something out "to see if the kids like it," before spending a lot of money. For families without a lot of money, the toy library would provide two weeks of fun with a toy

that might otherwise be out of the family' s financial reach. "It will be run along the same lines as the car seat rental and will be non-profit making," said Mrs Batt. Other toys being considered* for the library include tricycles, Duplo sets, a doll's house and other large indoor play equipment. About 1 00 j igsaw puzzles donated by the camp library will also be available. Mrs Batt said that selected family board games will also be included. A lot of money is required to set up a good toy library, but these things can be built up, said Mrs Batt. The library is off to a good start after soldiers winning several sections of a combat and survival competition donated their prizes to the scheme. Among these prizes is a mystery week-end for two and four radio cassette players. These prizes will be raffled off over the next few months said Mrs Batt.