Goal of the Library Play is an important component of maturation. The “Play Works” Toy Lending Library allows children of all abilities to grow and explore the world of play. The goal of the toy library is to promote the importance of play as it relates to learning and development. The library will provide therapeutic materials and a place to play for children of varying abilities. The library will provide toys and developmental information on loan to parents, childcare, rehabilitation providers and teachers. The overarching benefit of the toy library is to provide an opportunity for children of all ages (birth to age 8) and abilities to participate in meaningful play activities. The toy lending concept further provides the parents with toys and games that are matched to their child’s skills and interests. This service greatly simplifies the entire play process and provides parents with examples and ideas of the types of toys they may decide to purchase for their child in the future. Mission Statement The mission of “Play Works” toy library is to provide services of lending toys free of charge to families in the community, especially those who may not otherwise have access to toys and those families with children with special needs. Play Works aims to educate parents on ways to play with their child and promote healthy parent-child relationships. Who Can Use the Toy Library? This library was designed to be free and open for community use as well as for SFU students to interact with children from the community to enhance their learning. The toy library provides service opportunities for all students at Saint Francis University. Hours of Operation The Toy Lending Library is open by appointment through the end of May. June hours will be announced at a later date. Location The DiSepio Institute for Rural Health and Wellness at Saint Francis University, Lang Pediatric Health and Wellness Room on the ground floor. The address is 108 Franciscan Way, Loretto, Pennsylvania. Funding and Support Funding for the Toy Library was provided by grants from Saint Francis University ($1,000 Excellence in Education Award, and $1,000 Faculty Development grant) as well as a $3,500 grant from CVS Pharmacies. All funds are used for purchasing toys and storage, cosmetic design of the toy library, and design of parent-child play programs. Staffers are "helpers and "volunteers" who can help a child/family determine what toy/game is developmentally appropriate. The child is then able to take the toy/game home with them for 7 days to play with and to expand their abilities. The Department of Occupational Therapy sponsored the design of the toy library and has been involved in designing play programs for children and families using various toys at the library. Donations The toy library accepts donations of new or gently used toys and games. If you are interested in making a donation to the toy library, please contact Dr. Lorie Rowles, toy library coordinator, at 814.472.2749. xxx |