mmg.com.au

Tatura’s Toy Library is gearing-up for a new year and will re-open on Monday, February 4.

Publicity officer Kristy Thomas said Tatura Toy Library aimed to support families by providing them with regular access to a wide variety of toy.

‘‘Remember that play is how children learn, and a toy library membership gives parents the opportunity to offer their children a wide variety of new and interesting toys without the financial constraints of having to purchase, and then store, when the child becomes bored with them,’’ she said.

Ms Thomas said with the weather being so warm, a visit to the toy library was an excellent way to cool down and have fun with children inside, and there were water play toys outside.

‘‘The huge variety of puzzles, starting with large wooden ones for nimble little hands and extending to more intricate ones for bigger more dextrous fingers, are a great way for children to amuse themselves indoors,’’ she said.

‘‘Our Annual General Meeting was held recently, with Anne Hutchison stepping down as president but she will be staying on the committee to provide support in the transition period which is much appreciated.

‘‘We would like to thank Anne for her enthusiasm and the terrific organisational and practical contributions she has made to the toy library over her term.

Marissa O’Halloran has taken on the role of president, and the committee looks forward to operating under her guidance.

Ms Thomas said new members were always welcome. The Toy Library is open on Mondays (3.45pm to 4.30pm) and Saturdays (10am to 11am) during school terms, and is located in the same building complex as the Tatura Children’s Centre and the Tatura Community Centre, in Kerford St.

A family membership costs $30/year, and each family member can borrow any two toys plus one puzzle as often as they like.

Ms Thomas said toys could be borrowed for two weeks at a time, and there was also an option for those who want to borrow occasionally, such as grandparents or carers who want to borrow only a couple of times a year.