The Lethbridge Library's Crossings Branch is set to open a toy library on February 29 (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By Justin Goulet

New toy library to open at Crossings Branch in west Lethbridge Saturday

Feb 27, 2020 | 5:00 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The Crossings Branch of the Lethbridge Library is set to open its new toy library.

Families in the community will be able to borrow new toys for their children at the west Lethbridge facility. The Main Branch in the downtown has offered a toy program since 1992.

There will be a special opening for the Crossing Branch’s new toy library on Saturday, February 29.

The library says this is an option for parents to allow their kids to play with new toys without the cost of purchase and the clutter of too many toys in their homes.

The initial donation of $2,700 for the project came from the Friends of the Lethbridge Public Library.

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President Isabelle Henderson said the donation will ensure that every child has access to toys and play.

“The Friends believe that investing in the next generations’ imagination and creativity is an important part of belonging to a community. Our funds are raised through community donations, triennial casinos, and regular used book sales run by extremely dedicated volunteers,” Henderson stated in a release.

Additional funds for the toy library were provided by FortisAlberta through the $1,400 Save Energy Grant. That funding made it possible for library staff to purchase toys made by companies that use environmentally friendly practices in their production.

READ MORE: New toy library coming to Crossings Branch thanks to FortisAlberta grant

“I am delighted to include sustainably made toys in our new toy library at the Crossings Branch. Using the funds donated by FortisAlberta, we can select toys made using environmentally responsible materials, such as softwood and recycled plastic,” said Emily Lumley, Library Technician with the Lethbridge Public Library.

“In addition to being good for the planet, these toys are also good for our kids – fun, safe and designed to spark creativity. I’m eager to share them with our community.”

On Saturday, there will be a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:30 a.m. as well as activities for families.