Penrith Library wins ‘Innovation in Outreach Services’ Award for Toy Library

Wednesday, 28 November 2018

At the annual NSW Public Libraries Association (NSWPLA) conference dinner held on 27 November 2018 it was announced that Penrith library had won the 2018 ‘Innovation in Outreach Services’ award for our toy library service.

Penrith City Library has won the 2018 NSW Public Libraries Association's 'Innovation in Outreach Services' award for its toy library service. The award recognises the diversity and high quality of outreach services provided by public libraries in NSW and acknowledges innovation in providing services to meet the diverse needs of local communities.

Since 1980, the toy library has been offering inclusive play opportunities for all local children. Today the service operates a combination of weekly 'stay and play' sessions where families are able to drop in, play and socialise in a relaxed setting. Children can also borrow toys to take home - an easy way for families to keep up with age and developmentally appropriate toys without the financial burden.

The toy library's outreach program also offers easy access to resources for families with children and young adults with diagnosed disabilities and ongoing high support needs. The sessions are specifically tailored to cater for the particular developmental needs of the participants in a fun, safe, supportive and friendly environment.

Last financial year approximately 4,630 adults and 6,830 children attended the toy library sessions. The prize of $1,100 will be invested into further resources for the toy library.

Find out more about what's on offer at the library, including our school holiday activities on the Library page.

Information contained within this news release was correct as at Wednesday, 28 November 2018.