August 2012 Issue 143 - Toy Library Federation NZ

Toy Library Federation news, events and information
August 2012
Issue 143
THE TOY LIBRARY LINK
Play is the Way
www.toylibrary.co.nz
TOY LIBRARY FEDERATION OF NZ
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2011-2012
Irene Mosley
National President
ph (03)489 5715
president@toylibray.co.nz
Vanessa Robertson
National Treasurer
ph (03)324-4489
treasurer@toylibrary.co.nz
Diane Pitcaithly
Toy Boxes
ph (09)575-7376
cpbpjg@xtra.co.nz
Karen Lord
Ester Romp
ph (03) 226 6850
ph (06) 376 7940
STAFF
Christine Jelley
Office Manager,
03 388 4793
0800-148-697
office@toylibrary.co.nz
Lisa Taylor
Toy Express
03 482-1370
0800-148-699
toyexpress@toylibrary.co.nz
Toy Express Hours:
Monday – Thursday
9am-12noon
Office Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
Friday
11-3 pm
12-3pm
Physical Address:
Postal Address:
18 Bower Avenue
PO Box 27-146
New Brighton
Shirley
CHRISTCHURCH 8083
CHRISTCHURCH 8640
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/NZToyLibraries
Website: www.toylibrary.co.nz
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REGIONAL AREA CONTACTS
Northland & Auckland
Di Pitcaithly – Auckland
Home Ph:
09 5757376
Email: cpbpjg@xtra.co.nz
East Coast/Hawkes Bay &
Wairarapa & Wellington
Ester Romp – Pahiatua
Home Ph:
06 376 7940
Email:
arendsromp@xtra.co.nz
Hamilton
Nelson/Marlborough/West Coast
Michelle Bibby - Hamilton
Home Ph:
07 855 5982
Email: thebibbys@ihug.co.nz
Debbie Bowdler – Motueka
Home Ph:
03 528 9214
Email: bowdler@clear.net.nz
Waikato
Canterbury
Judith Bennett - Putaruru
Home Ph:
07 883 5630
Email: mjbennett@xtra.co.nz
Vanessa Robertson -Leeston
Home Ph:
03 324 4489
Email:vanessa.robertson@transpower.co.nz
Bay of Plenty
Otago and Southland
Emma Bragg - Te Puke
Home Ph:
07 533 6009
Email: emmaandrory@xtra.co.nz
Karen Lord – Tuatapere
Home Ph:
03 226 6850
Email: linrosa@woosh.co.nz
Taranaki/Central
Plateau/Manawatu
Irene Mosley –Mosgiel
Home Ph:
03 489 5715
Email: results4u@xtra.co.nz
Lorraine Mears Raetihi
Home Ph:
06 385 3441
Email: mearsfamily@slingshot.co.nz
Susie Burnett – Otautau
Home Ph:
03 225-8917
Email: drburnett@xtra.co.nz
We would love more people to help spread the load for each area,
Maybe you are interested in helping and sharing your knowledge in this way?
Contact the office for more information.
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TLFNZ acts as a support mechanism to new and existing not-for-profit
toy libraries; offering information and support on all aspects of running a
toy library, toy selection, toy maintenance and the value of play.
Membership is open to anyone interested in toy libraries.
VISION STATEMENT:
“Let the Children Play.”
MISSION STATEMENT:
TLFNZ actively promotes play as being essential to the
optimal educational, physical, psychological, social and
cultural development of the child.
OBJECTS:
 To assist in the establishment of, and to support and promote the formation of nonprofit charitable toy libraries throughout NZ for the purpose of making available to
families, including families with special needs, toys and educational aids of all kinds.
 To support and encourage the development and maintenance of high standards of
service in all toy libraries
 To investigate and disseminate information on all aspects of the safe use, manufacture
and distribution of toys and educational aids
 To foster and encourage co-operation between toy libraries to better assist them in
furthering their objectives consistent with the objects of TLFNZ
 To establish and conduct seminars and educational opportunities promoting the
objectives of TLFNZ
 To gain and maintain recognition for toy libraries as important resources catering for
the developmental, educational, emotional and cultural needs of families
 To raise and/or allocate money for any educational or charitable purpose within NZ
consistent with the objectives of TLFNZ
 To do all such things as are conducive or incidental to the attaining of all or any of the
above objectives.
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Inside this Issue:
Page:
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from the Editor:
Contact Details
About TLFNZ
Contents, Editorial
President Report
2012-13 TLFNZ Board
Toy Express Situation Vacant
Training Weekend Feedback
Opening Address from TW
TW Workshop notes – Nuts’n’Bolts
Librarian’s Workshop
Library Displays
Outstanding Service Awards
Life Membership
Area Networkers Needed
Warrant of Fitness
I’m a Toy Library Dad
Bouncy Castles
Toy Libraries in the News
Promote your Library
Open Flags
Laptops & Printers 4 sale
Parenting
Community Net Aotearoa
Toy Boxes
Toy Express
Spare Parts
International Toy Library Assn
International Toy Research
Fundraising
From the Manual – Involving
Members
Upcoming Events
Stationery Order Form
After the busy lead up to
August, I really enjoyed
putting faces to names at
the recent Training
Weekend.
Back in the Office and things are still as
busy as ever – insurance is hopefully now all
sorted for everyone for another year; I’ve
still a few lottery accountabilities to double
check, and a pile of applications from
libraries to collate into our bulk application.
For libraries this is also a busy time for you
all –often the numbers using the library are
at their peak as the warmer weather brings
everyone out, and many will be busy with
upcoming fundraising events.
Christine
Play is the Way
5
President Report
What a busy and fantastic time our Volunteer weekend in Wellington was. I can’t believe a month has
already passed since so many of us were there learning and laughing together.
We tried some new formats this year and included more workshops, more sessions for everyone to
hear and also more options. The reason for this is that we felt that there are so many new committee
every year that often you are not actually sure what it is you need to learn about.
Some of our feedback forms have commented that they wondered why we had the Charities
Commission representative speak to everyone. The answer to this is “that it is very important we
understand the Charities system, our obligations, what it all means and how to ensure we comply.
As I call in on toy libraries as I am round the country for my day job, I find that the governance
issues – charities annual returns and other compliance issues are often what committees find
difficult. I raised this with a friend from the Community Law Centre one day and she gave me some
sound advice “ If we learn not to fear this stuff, accept we have to comply and take it in our stride
each year, it no longer becomes and issue, but as much of a habit as all the other things our
organisations do as part of running an efficient community facility.” Try and take these compliance
needs in your stride in your committee and make them part of your routine and they will not be near
as daunting.
I loved seeing all the new and old faces at our training weekend. We have lots to be proud of as an
organisation and I think this year we really did try and celebrate our strengths rather than focus on
our weaknesses. Chris has included my power point from our opening session at conference. In this I
talked about the need to be positive and look at what your library and your community have that are
assets rather than look at your weaknesses and what you haven’t got. This is called ABCD:
Asset
Based
Community
Development
If we see everything as an opportunity and take time to step back from the things we are not doing
so well, to celebrate the things we are doing well. Then we all feel so much better and the other
things start seeming not so massive to cope with.
As committees we need to celebrate:
– we have a toy library service in our community
– we have some people enthusiastic enough to be on the committee
– We are offering our children a service that can help shape their life (Play is essential to a
child’s development)
Over the next twelve months I encourage you all to take time to celebrate the small successes and
have fun as a committee. All the best for the last term and thank you all for the work you do.
Irene Mosley
National President
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TLFNZ Board 2012-13
Irene Mosley
President
I have worked with not for profit groups both locally and nationally for the last 20
years, the last six, working extensively with groups and organisations in the Clutha
District through contracted Community Development work and my own volunteer
involvement in the community.
In 2010 I completed a graduate diploma in Not for profit Management and since
2003 I have had my own business, Results Consulting, which works with not-for-profits and small
businesses to assist with project management or training. At present I am working full time for the
Neurological Foundation as a project manager based in Dunedin.
I have been involved with Toy Libraries since 1990 at local and National level including national toy
buyer twice and National President twice. My children are now 19 – 22 so not so many toys around the
house, but still a love of play and all things playful.
Vanessa Robertson
Treasurer
Hi, I am a mother of 3 great children who definitely keep me on my toes. I currently work full time as
a Support Coordinator and luckily have the ability to work from home to be able to spend as much
time as I can with my family. I have been involved with toy libraries for about 7 years, ever since my
eldest was a wee tot.
I consider myself to be a well organised and motivated person who will get the job done. I can work
on my own as well as working well in a team environment and I look forward to the challenges of the
treasurers role and hope that I can do it justice.
Diane Pitcaithly
Toy Boxes
Since I was 15 I have worked with children. In addition to being a nanny and offering home-base
child care, I have been a secretary in a hospital and for a large advertising company.
Like many, I did my time on plunket committees, school PTAs, Sunday school teaching, Community
centre weekly kids club organiser and cook, holiday programme organiser, our own church Youth
groups and in-between all this, along came Eastern Bays Toy Library in 1996. I am still there as
Administrator and librarian. I have seen many a family go through, resign due to school children, and
then back they come another baby – so much fun!!!!. I have such passion for my family life, children
and of course TOY LIBRARIES.
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Ester Romp
I’ve been involved with the Pahiatua Toy Library for over 12 years and have held various committee
positions in that time. During my time, Pahiatua Toy Library has shifted premises, computerised and
increased (and maintained that increase) membership. I’ve previously had a brief stint as an area
networker and attended toy library conferences.
I have skills & experience in governance with a teaching background and served on the Board of
Trustees at my school. We also run a dairy farm with sharemilkers.
I believe its important for toy libraries to attract members who have skills to offer both at
committee and roster level. Marketing and promotion of a toy library is important so that it adapts to
the changes in our society. Our children still need the “play”and “parental involvement” factor in their
lives and toy libraries assist with this.
Karen Lord
Currently I have a background roll of helping the Tuatapere committee with
fundraising/brainstorming and toy buying; after having been their president for 7 years.
Even though i come from a small toy library, I work well with other people and am organised and find
everything comes together before due dates. I have some computer skills as I help run a busy dairy
farm. I’m not a techno whiz; I prefer to talk to people rather than text.
I would like to ensure that we keep up the high level of support for NZ toy libraries, while staying
true to the integrity of Federation values.
There are still spaces for others interested to join us on the Board for this term.
If you are interested and want to find out more, please contact the Office or
Irene either by phone or email
Office: 0800-148-697 office@toylibrary.co.nz
Irene: 03 489 5715 president@toylibrary.co.nz
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< National Toy Buyer >
SITUATIONS VACANT
If toys, the importance of play and toy libraries are a
passion of yours and you are looking for a new challenge
in your life, then this job may be for you.
Our current toy buyer Lisa Taylor has decided to return to
teaching and we are looking for someone to continue
developing our toy buying service.
Are you a motivated and organised person who thrives on
getting things done?
Experience in sales, marketing, customer service and
children’s development would be an advantage as well as
a working knowledge of Excel and XERO computer
programmes.
This is a part-time position (20 hours per week), Monday
to Friday. with some flexibility in the hours.
We would be keen to appoint someone to work with our
National Manager in Christchurch, however, this position
could be carried out from any urban location in New
Zealand.
Start date: Late 2012
If you consider this challenging and rewarding position
may be for you then contact:
National President Irene Mosley
email: president@toylibrary.co.nz
phone : 027 277 5631
Or send expressions of interest outlining relevant
experience and information on what you believe you can
bring to the position to:
National President
Toy Library Federation of NZ
PO BOX 27 146
CHRISTCHURCH 8640
Applications close on 15th September 2012.
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As a 1st time attendee, I
found the workshops all
really informative –
encouraging and gave
me lots to work with
x
Loved the display
boards, fabulous idea!!
Wonderful to see what
other toy libraries offer
Better than I
thought. Wasn’t
sure what to expect,
but my brain is full
from all the great
information
Feeling more
confident about
I am coming away
updating our
with a re-juvenated
website
commitment to my
toy library
We learnt that
we are doing
really well
It’s exceeded
my
expectations.
Thanks
Was fantastic. I
look forward to
hopefully
coming to the
next one
Thanks to the committee
who organised the weekend.
Realise they have done lots
of work behind the scenes thanks
Way
more than I
expected
Fantastic weekend – so many
knowledgeable people so
keen to share information.
Just the support we needed.
Thank you so much
DJ on Saturday night was
great opportunity for us to
let hair down.
Awesome job organisers!!
Great to meet people
& network – really
inspired by enthusiasm
of committee and
others
Even at 3rd
time, more than
valuable
Its a passion
refresher and its
nice knowing our
library is doing
well!
Maybe I didn’t learn
as much as 2010 but
I know more! Got
some very inspiring
marketing &
promotion ideas
Sharing ideas,
solutions with other
libraries, seeing
display boards...
Great that the
Federation is
there to help.
We’re doing
really well!
Loved Kerri’s
workshops – she
was really
worth
listening to
10
Little tricks & bits
learnt were really
helpful – I’m now
revitalised and ready
to hit the ground
running
Opening Address: Building Healthy & Enterprising Toy Libraries
-
Irene Mosley
OPENNESS TO CHANGE AND
ALTERNATIVE THINKING
(Einstein’s Definition of Insanity)
‘Continuing to do the same thing
and expecting a different result’
‘WE CAN EITHER BE VICTIMS OF CHANGE OR WE
CAN PLAN FOR IT, SHAPE IT, AND EMERGE
STRONGER FROM IT. THE CHOICE IS OURS’
(Sonaran Institute)
‘WE NEED TO ACCEPT CHANGE, AND MAKE IT OUR
FRIEND’
(Robert Theobald)
‘DESTINY IS NOT A MATTER OF CHANCE IT IS A
MATTER OF CHOICE. IT IS NOT A THING TO BE
WAITED FOR IT IS A THING TO BE ACHIEVED’
(William Jennings Bryan)
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‘BIG THINGS HAPPEN
WHEN A LOT OF
PEOPLE DO SMALL
THINGS
DIFFERENTLY’
(JOHN THEOBALD)
Healthy
Unhealthy
Optimism, hope and 'we are in this together’
"We can do it
Value intangibles like vision and values
Consensus building
Collaboration
Focus on the future
Interdependence
Broad community participation
Leadership renewal
Think and act in long term
Listening
Reconciliation
Win-win solutions
Politics of substance
Diversity and involvement
Challenge ideas
Problem solvers
View challenges as opportunities
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Cynicism
'Nothing works'
Emphasis only on tangibles
Polarisation
Confrontation
Debate the past
Parochialism
Few do everything
Same old faces
Short term thinking
Attacking
Hold grudges
Win-lose solutions
Politics of personality
Exclusion
Challenge people
Blockers and blamers
See themselves as victims
“When
spider webs
unite they
can tie up a
lion”
(Ethiopian proverb)
½ full or ½ empty??
We have
deficiencies
and needs
We have
capacities and
assets
WE CAN ASK QUESTIONS
IN TWO WAYS–
1.
OR
2.
What
What
What
What
is wrong with our toy library?
problems can we fix?
are the needs of our toy library?
is broken?
What are the strengths and assets of our toy
library?
Share a time when you felt our toy library was at
it’s best?
What do you value most about our toy library?
What is the essence of our organisation that makes
it unique and strong?
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‘Success is an inside job’
(Ralph M Ford)
‘If opportunity doesn’t knock
build a door’
(Milton Berle)
PASSION AND ‘CAN DO’ MINDSET
‘When facing a difficult task,
act as if it is impossible to fail.
When going after Moby Dick,
bring along the tartare sauce’
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'I THINK NEGATIVE PEOPLE
SHOULD BE TAXED. THEY
REQUIRE AN INCREDIBLE
AMOUNT OF ENERGY.
THEY'RE LIKE CORGIS
NIBBLING AT YOUR ANKLES
AND I'M SURE THEY EXIST TO
SHOW US THE DIFFERENCE
BETWEEN HEAVEN AND HELL'
(Vicki Buck, Ex-mayor Christchurch City Council)
Here is Edward Bear, coming downstairs now,
bump, bump, bump, on the back of his head,
behind Christopher Robin.
It is, as far as he knows, the only way of
coming downstairs, but sometimes he feels that
there really is another way, if only he could stop
bumping for a moment and think of it.
A. A. Milne
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Workshop notes from the Training Weekend
Over the next few issues, notes from sessions held during the recent Training Weekend will be
included here for your information. Our thanks to the presenters, and attendees, who provided
notes and sent them in to share with the rest of us. If you would like to find out further information
relating to these, or other topics, please contact the Office.
Nuts and Bolts
This session brought up several issues by toy libraries and other libraries shared their ideas to
support:-
Committee members

Have definite committee roles – be specific about what you want.

Use Dad’s for toy repairs

Don’t forget the potential of pre-kid parents

Keep ex-committee on as advisory members

Annual dinner to acknowledge them

Think about why you joined – meet people;

Make personal contact

Hold meeting in interesting places or invite speakers
Volunteer Time

Fine for not attending duty

Ring volunteers ahead

Have system to organise own replacement therefore their problem not yours.

Don’t open unless volunteer is there

Allow them to choose their own duty times or alternative type of duty

Celebrate them! Volunteer of the month award with voucher from sponsor.
Hygiene
One library said they had had toys (yes more than one) come back with wee on them – Uggh!
 Make them clean toys then and there

Ring them and ask them to return the following opening time

Explain the rules around cleaning of toys and suggest
appropriate places to store toys away from pets and toilet
training toddlers

Ensure people on duty are aware of and uphold system

LABEL – CLEAN ME! From Federation

Send out cleaning tips as a sheet or in newsletter
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Preganancy in committee

Have a policy of a term or 6 months off

Ask what support they need to continue in their role
Watch Out list
1. “sweet” librarians who don’t want to uphold the rules – offer them a letter template to
empower them to follow up. Use newsletter to reinforce rules. Ensure they are aware of the
rules when they become a member.
2. Rent as an operating cost can cripple a library
3. Plan for smooth transition between librarians – look for these qualities when employing
A couple of committees had survived major events
1. Computer crash
2. Loss of premises
We discussed planning for such events so you can minimise impact
Missing Pieces

Fine if missing, refund if returned

If significant part then committee decide

Rehire the toy to that member to give them a chance to find it.

Have a toy pieces amnesty

Amalgamate toys where pieces can be shared

Have spare parts cupboard or check with Federation
Hire Fees

$2, up to $3.50, depends on membership system

Cost of hire linked to toy value

More when new, can reduce if not popular enough at that price

Hire big items for $10 over summer – book in advance; rules about left outside
Publicity

Monthly ad (check out Motueka’s)

Mail drop

Flyers out in business mail (eg local garage monthly statements)

Promote to groups

Christmas parade

Ask where new members coming in heard about TL

Approach those in home based care – PAWs, PAFT, SPACE, Playcentre, Plunket
Librarian – how to afford/budget towards salary

Salary with specific job description; volunteer time; hourly rate ,minimum wage laws.

Apply for Grants?
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Librarian’s Workshop
TLFNZ Operations Manual
Not only for the Committee, but also good source of information for Librarians.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
do you know about it
have you read/browsed thru it
Have you seen the example of a job description
Have you seen the example of the agreement
Do you have first certificates
Are you aware of safety measure in library – cords, toys in way etc
Areas in the operations manual relating to Librarians
Guide to conflict resolution
Accident register
Employment agreement
Letter of appointment/employee
Resolving employment Relation ship problems
--Employee yearly review
Employee leave
Privacy policy
Appendix 4D
Appendix 4F
Appendix 8
Appendix 8A
Appendix 8B
Appendix 8C
12E
12G
Ideas of why you enjoy being the librarian –use these when needing to advertise for new librarian.
Please send in your photos, notes and any
other tidbits for me to add to our TW
booklet which is currently being written.
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Library Displays
New to our Training Weekend this year was the opportunity for libraries to set up displays
to show others aspects of their toy libraries. These were fantastic to look at, glean ideas
from and everyone present had an opportunity to vote for their favourite one. We were also
hoping to show virtual tours of toy libraries, and our thanks to the libraries that brought
along, or sent in slideshows or videos of their libraries. Over the next few months we will be
putting these up onto the website, so please do go and have a look. It is always interesting to
see other libraries.
Congratulations to Picton and Cromwell who were awarded
vouchers for their displays.
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Outstanding Service Awards
At our recent AGM, the Board recognized the following people who had been nominated to
receive an Outstanding Service Award. Congratulations to these people for their years of
service to their local toy libraries, and a huge round of thanks for helping make the toy
library a valued community service.

June Boulden
Temuka & Districts Community Toy Library
June was one of the original committee members who formed the Temuka and Districts Toy Library
in 2002 and she continues to support the library as a committee member today.
Over the 10 years of service, June has been the toy buyer, which is a very busy job. June has been
involved in countless fundraising events and has implemented many new initiatives within the library.
She plays a vital role in promoting our toy library through her connections with Plunket and the family
centre. It is a tough climate for recruiting committee members today – with busy working lives, it’s
harder to find people to volunteer their time. For June to give our library over 10 years service we
believe deserves acknowledgement. June is attending this year’s national training weekend and will
continue to serve on our committee in the coming year.
Proposed by Jane Marshall, Temuka Toy Library Committee

Emma Bragg
Te Puke Toy Library
Emma has been a committee members for over 5 years and secretary/funding officer for 3 of these.
She was given life membership at our AGM last September. Emma puts her heart and soul into the Te
Puke Toy Library with whatever task that needs doing. The library moved premises at the beginning
of this year and thanks to Emma the building is looking amazing and running smoothly. Emma also finds
the best prices for toys, orders them and when they come in processes them ready for the shelves.
The Te Puke toy library would not be in operation without Emma, and we thank you for all your hard
work Emma.
Proposed by Melissa Drabble, Te Puke Library Committee

Miranda Brook
Geraldine Toy Library
Our toy buyer, Miranda goes well above her call of duty to ensure everything is in order and
organized. Our committee would be lost without her enthusiasm and passion for the library. When
Miranda first took on the role of toy buyer she immediately took on the task of repackaging toys into
new containers. She worked so hard to bring the presentation of the toys up to a new level in our
library. They look fantastic and make the library look tidier.
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She also keeps herself extra busy organising fundraisers; always putting her hand up to organise
raffles, baking frantically for cake stalls and facilitate various fundraising events. She is a force to
be reckoned with!
She is an amazing member of our team, always doing a huge amount of the behind the scenes work.
Miranda is such a trooper for our toy library, she goes down early and turns the heaters on in winter,
spends hours labelling and photographing toys, is present every night during our annual stocktake
making sure members clean toys correctly. She certainly has her finger on the pulse and we believe
every toy library needs someone like her to keep the wheels running. She is an awesome person that
totally deserves recognition.
Thank you Miranda for all your work.

Proposed by Amanda Taylor, Geraldine Toy Library Committee
Pat Burrage Nelson Community Toy Library
Pat has been our librarian for the last 6 ½ years and sadly she has decided to retire at the end of
July. Pat is in her 70’s and took over the librarian’s role from when her daughter had a baby. Pat goes
the extra mile to ensure the smooth running of our library. She knows everyone by first name and is
always very kind to the children. She promotes the library in the community and is always on the
lookout for new committee members.
She organises duty rosters, library clean-up days, contractors to install new shelving, or to cut
broken tree branches around the building, and many other things that go on behind the scenes. She
reports well to the committee at their monthly meetings. She does a great job training our new
committee members on the use of our library computer systems.
She does so much around the library during the short period of time when the library is open. But
most importantly, when Pat retires, we will miss her personality, her smiley welcoming face behind the
computer at the library. She is amazing. People like here are really hard to find. Because of her drive,
personality, attitude and love for her job, we are who we are today – a happy and successful toy
library operating in Nelson.
Proposed by Irina Bell, Nelson Community Committee

May Higinbottom Temuka & Districts Community Toy Library
May joined the toy library in Temuka in 2006 as the toy librarian. May gives a truly amazing amount
of her own time volunteering for the library. The library is presented to the highest standard and
they systems May has implemented in her time have standardised the way we operate. Fundraising
events in recent years have become May’s specialty; putting in many hours to make our events
successful.
May is genuinely passionate about the toy library and it rubs off on those around her. As a
grandmother she is wonderful with our little customers, our members. It is a rarity in today’s society
21
to find people who are so willing to give up so much of their own time volunteering – and we are very
grateful to have May.
Proposed by Jane Marshall, Temuka toy library Committee

Karen Lord Tuatapere Toy Library
Karen has been part of Tuatapere Toy Library for 9 years. Her participation and dedication to our
toy library has been, and still is, instrumental to the smooth running and operation or our
organisation. Karen is always present to help and support new office bearers and members of our
library. Her awesome ability to organise has lead to many successful fundraisers and continues to
support a positive profile for our toy library in the community.
Proposed by Teri Black, Tutapere Toy Library committee.
THE BEST BAGS EVER!
With more than 20 years experience, the Shirley Toy Library's plastic drawstring bags
are brought by many Toy Libraries around New Zealand.





Our Drawstring bags are:
Prices and sizes include:
Made from strong, 125 micron plastic
 $1.90 Extra
with 'air holes'
small
Industrially sealed
 $1.50 Small
Enforced with extra strong cloth
 $1.90 Medium
tape
 $2.50 Large
Non-fraying string with toggle
 $4.50 Extra
fastener
Large
Available in 5 different sizes
 $5.00 Dress up
We enjoy making them and providing other toy
libraries around New Zealand great bags to use for
storing fantastic toys, dress-ups, puzzles and games
for children of all ages.
Shirley Toy Library is a non profit organisation and
all money raised is re-invested into the library. Our
bags are made to last. We offer a fast turn-around
and DO NOT charge GST.
Email our bag co-ordinator NOW for an order
form:
bags@shirleytoylibrary.co.nz
or download it from our website:
www.shirleytoylibrary.co.nz
22
(200 x 300mm)
(300 x 450mm)
(375 x 500mm)
(450 x 750mm)
(660 x 1000mm)
(660 x 1000mm + hanger)
Life Membership
Kathy has been a mentor and has given so much, often under trying conditions, to toy
libraries in Waikato and the Hamilton CCS Toy Library for over 21 years.
This toy library was the first toy library in NZ and is totally dedicated to the children and
families of children with disabilities. It is quite different from the majority of toy libraries,
requiring in-depth knowledge of children’s requirements. This library does not operate with a
supporting committee.
Kathy was always committed to her job and cared deeply about her clients. She had to buy
carefully choosing toys and equipment suitable for her families on a limited budget. She
worked with families to ensure they chose and were issued with appropriate toys.
Although employed as the librarian, Kathy took on other jobs within CCs including the
newsletter, and often went beyond the call of duty.
Although Kathy never became a national board member, Kathy’s strong belief in toy libraries
and the frustration of a lack within the region, she worked tirelessly for the establishment
of toy libraries within Hamilton and the wider Waikato region. She was integral in promoting
them, holding many “how to start a toy library” workshops and having toy library stands at
relevant expos in Hamilton. One of these workshops certainly motivated and gave Putaruru
the tools to start their toy library. Kathy has over the years been a facilitator in workshops
on ‘Children with Special Needs’ at national toy library training weekends. She attended many
conferences as a delegate and was an interal member of the Hamilton Conference organising
committee.
Kathy was instrumental in the Whaingaroa Toy Library in Raglan. She took the initiative to
put an article in the Raglan Chronicle explaining the benefits of a toy library and to see if
23
there was a group in the area keen to help set one up. She would then come over to Raglan
and attend meetings and worked with the group until they were up and running on their own.
She has a wealth of knowledge and is a great sounding board for inexperience committees.
Her caring nature and understanding of the different needs of special children make her a
very special person.
Nominated by Judith Bennett, Putaruru Toy Library &Regional Networker
Seconded by Charlotte Hartstone, Whaingaroa Toy Library.
Area Networkers
Do you enjoy helping others?
Would you like to share your experience and knowledge,
and pass it onto other toy libraries?
Sharing of Ideas and Networking with others nearby, help
create great toy libraries.
We would love your help to support toy libraries in your area.
We are looking for more area networkers around the country
to make regular contact with 4-6 libraries
to assist and support them in the great work they are doing in our communities.
For more information, contact the Office.
Ph 0800-148-697 or email: office@toylibrary.co.nz
24
Warrant of Fitness
. This checklist is designed to help committees discuss practices within their library and
maybe identify areas that need action. With each issue of the Link, a couple of section s will
be put in for you to take to your committee meeting for discussion (and action if necessary)
COMMITTEE
Yes
No
1.
How many are on your committee? _________
Is it the right number to comply with your constitution/trust deed?
2. What is your quorum number? _____
(you will find this in your constitution /trust deed)
3. Do you ensure you have a quorum for meetings and AGM or special General meeting?
(some decisions are not legal if a quorum is not present.)
4. Does your committee have job descriptions?
(Samples available in TLFNZ Operations Manual)
5. Do you have committee folders? ie. with rules, job descriptions, etc
6. Is your meeting run with an agenda?
7. Are accurate Minutes kept, with motions, etc
8. Is there a handover procedure/policy when someone leaves the committee?
9. Is there a process for handing over and briefing new office bearers after each AGM?
Comments:
MEMBERSHIP
Yes
No
1.
2.
3.
4.
Does your committee know how many members you have?
Are membership fees reviewed annually?
Is the membership list kept current?
Are members advised correctly of any changes to membership fees? ie. as per
constitution/trust deed.
Comments:
OPERATING RULES (Toy Library Rules)
1.
Do you give new members a copy of operating rules when joining?
ie overdues, dirty toys, missing pieces, fines, duty etc
2. Are your current members aware of the rules?
3. Have you advised members of the procedure for unreturned toys/unpaid fines, etc?
4. Do you have a limit on the number of toys that can be borrowed at any one time by
members?
Comments:
25
Yes
No
It will soon be Fathers Day, and its great to see and hear of dads coming along and using our
toy libraries. Happy Fathers Day and happy playing to all…
As the father of an eight year old girl, I have been a frequent visitor to our local Toy
Library over the last few years. Quite apart from the advantages of not having to buy so
many toys, the Toy Library has enabled me to be more involved in my daughter’s
playtime (often in response to the question “Dad, can you help me put this together?”),
and it is not unknown for her to get items out on my behalf so that I don’t get bored!! It
also provides an opportunity for her to try many different activities - the Toy Library is
much more than just toys!
Richard
Recently I came across a couple of articles which highlight why dads should play with their children. Here’s one
blog that I’d share with you as it illustrates well how important play can be.
From: http://www.danoah.com/2011/08/real-dads-play-with-their-kids.html
I sat next to Noah on our living room floor, each of us building our own tower from his new set of Lincoln
Logs. “Dad, did I do this the strong kind?” he asked, motioning my attention to the beginnings of his tower.
The ends of two logs were off-balance, resting at an angle. Disaster loomed.
“Well,” I replied, “I think you need to fix these two logs so that they’re flat instead of on top of these other
ones.” He looked at me, and with little emotion told me that he saw no problems. “It’s your choice,” I said.
“I think it might tip over if it gets too big.”
He built his Leaning Tower of Noah. Eventually it got so tall that the angle couldn’t support the height,
causing the majority of it to tumble. Noah growled. “I hate these things.” He then walked over to my tower
which was getting decently tall by now, and put his hands behind his back. “I want to kick yours over,” he
said through a half-smile and squinted eyes.
I laughed, and we proceeded to have a discussion about why he wanted to kick mine over, why he was
frustrated that his own tower fell down, and whether or not my feelings would be hurt if he did kick it over.
He agreed that it wouldn’t be a nice thing to do, and started over on his own tower. Shortly into it, he
repeated his original question. “Dad, did I do this the strong kind?” This time he had laid all his pieces
appropriately, and was delighted when I told him they were perfect. He built a tower half as high as mine,
and ran out of useful logs to continue his build.
26
Frustrated again, he walked over and asked, “Dad, can I please knock over your tower so that I can build
mine bigger?”
“You need the pieces that are in my tower?”
“Yes.”
“Sorry. I only let giant dinosaurs knock over my towers.” A huge smile formed where anxiety had ruled the
moment prior. He made his best dinosaur sounds and went about destroying my edifice. “Wow, that was a
scary dinosaur,” I assured him.
Each and every time I play with Noah, I learn something new, I come to know something he is feeling, or I
watch in awe as he further develops his mental, social, verbal, and motor skills.
As I rewind the clock nearly three decades to a time when memories are few and far between, I always
conjure up the same happy images.
The one that hits me most frequently is a game my own dad played with us called “Bear Trap.” We’d sneak
into his bedroom while he slept, and would collectively pounce on him to startle him from his slumber. He’d
respond by turning into a ruthless and speedy “trap” that would catch the little bears running amok on his
bed. He’d get hold of our hands, arms, feet, or any other part of us that offered him a good hold, and we’d
fight for our lives to free ourselves. Once we ourselves were unfettered, we’d team up with each other to
save our fallen comrades.
I have other memories from those earliest times in my life, most of them centered on play.
I could drown you with the overwhelming data showing you the need for play and the power that comes
every time a man plays with his child. I could offer you research showing that play builds the imagination in
ways that are crucial to proper cognitive development. I could easily demonstrate facts and case studies
showing the way role-playing and imagination help children wrap their brains around different scenarios,
outcomes, and issues with which they might be dealing.
Likewise, I could mention the other hundreds of benefits that come every time a father finds a way to play
with his child, such as a child’s sense of control while he interprets the drama of the everyday, his child’s
development of social skills, his expansions in physical development, his ability to work through
unidentified emotions, and a child’s ability to overcome stress and irritability.
But in all reality, while the science behind play is interesting and more than noteworthy, it’s far from being
the dominating force behind why a father plays with his child.
A real dad plays with his child because he wants to know his child. A real dad plays with his child because
he wants his child to know him.
A real dad understands the power in playing, the need for playing, and the truths that come out while
playing. He understands the trust that is built while playing. He understands that his child will tell him things
through her pretending and make-believe that she has no way to tell him otherwise. He understands that
when his son gets vicious or mistreating while playing, it’s often because he is trying to wrap his brain
around the same thing happening to him elsewhere.
Real dads play with their kids, but even more importantly, they listen to their kids while they play. They
listen for subtle clues of things their children want to share. They listen for small hints that will tell them
what they might focus on in the immediate future with their children. They listen for suggestions that
something isn’t right elsewhere.
Real dads also use playtime as a time to hand control over to their children. In a life where parents make all
the rules, real dads understand that sometimes kids just need to be in charge. They understand that it helps
27
balance the rest of fatherhood. They understand that it’s mentally liberating to a child when he gets to call all
the shots, even if for a few minutes every day.
And guess what else? Real dads do play with their children every day. No matter how busy they are, and no
matter how much the rest of life is throwing tedious curveballs their way, they find time to play with their
kids. Whether playing for hours on end or for two spare minutes while they take a break from some pressing
and mandatory deadline, they make it happen.
And when they do, they become kids again. Real Dads forget about the grown-up world for the time being,
and they get lost in the moment, pretending to be firemen, doctors, or children. They build magnificent
structures, they color magnificent pictures, and they get killed in magnificent sword fights. Real dads have
races to the end of the fence and back, they have contests to see who can stand on one foot the longest, and
they relive their favorite childhood games such as jump rope or four-square.
My son is four. The lessons we learn from one another while playing are countless.
In our attempts to each be the prevailing monster and turn one another into tasty snacks, Noah learns that life
can and should be enjoyable. He learns that size has nothing to do with his ability to come out on top. He
learns that even when a giant force is crushing him, he can free himself so long as he works hard enough to
escape his entrapment.
As Noah and I discuss Lincoln Logs and whether or not it’s appropriate to kick someone else’s tower over, I
am able to see that Noah needs further examples of kindness, along with help knowing how to take
responsibility for poor choices. I’m also able to tune into the fact that Noah might be dealing with similar
actions from another child, and that his attempts to repeat the behavior are simply his way of deciphering
whether such actions are right or wrong. At the same time, Noah gets to learn the power of rebuilding, even
when mistakes have seemingly caused him failure. He learns that if he completes everything to the
boundaries he has been given, dad is generally willing to give him more. He also learns that life can and
should be enjoyable.
Other times I listen to him talk to himself and to his toys, unaware that I’m snooping nearby as a fly on the
wall while he pretends that he’s a daddy, a police officer, a dragon, or some other fantastic imaginative
invention.
Sometimes he speaks to his stuffed animals and action figures with love, caring, and understanding.
Sometimes he scolds and chastises them. And somehow, it’s almost alwaysdirectly related to the type of dad
I’ve showed myself to most recently be.
So come on, lets
encourage all dads,
To get on down to the
toy library, borrow
some toys and go
have fun.
28
Bouncy Castles
A number of libraries now hire, or are thinking of hiring, bouncy castles. If you are insured under the
TLFNZ scheme, please note that your bouncy castles should be specifically stated, so please let me
know if you need to add it to your policy. You should also ensure you have a good contract regarding
hire. Here is an example of a contract taken from Facebook that the Moonee Valley Toy Library in
Australia use, with signed copy given to member, and signed copy retained by the library. It would be
good to see what hiring terms NZ libraries have, so please send them in.
Play Palace Jumping Castle
Terms and Conditions
MEMBER COPY
Conditions of Hire:


















The item is $50 to borrow for one week.
Please read the Instruction Manual.
Please ensure that the Jumping Castle is blown up fully, on a flat non rocky surface, with the tarp
(provided) underneath.
The motor needs power at all times to inflate the jumping castle.
Do not leave the Jumping Castle or the motor in the rain.
Do not blow up Jumping Castle in strong winds.
Please secure Jumping Castle with pegs (provided) before use.
Maximum 4 children at a time on the Jumping Castle.
Only children 10 years of age and under.
No shoes to be worn while on Jumping Castle.
No food or drink on Jumping Castle.
Please clean before returning.
You MUST return the item within 30 minutes of the toy library opening to enable it to be rehired
unless otherwise arranged with the Coordinator.
Once you have hired the item you have an hour to report any damage or issues before it becomes
your responsibility (please blow up as soon as possible).
Any damage that occurs during your hire is your responsibility, and if so, please act immediately and
report the damage to the toy library by calling 0420 322 658.
This damage will need to be fixed by you and if it is unfixable then the item will need to be replaced
at your own expense.
Full replacement cost is $499 plus ancillary items.
The $50 deposit will be refunded in full if the above conditions are adhered to.
Borrowing Date: ______________________________________________________________
Return Date and Time: _________________________________________________________
By signing this Agreement you acknowledge that you have read the above conditions, are willing to adhere
to them and are hiring the Jumping Castle at your own risk.
Signature: _________________________________________ Date: ___________________
29
Toy Libraries in the News
30
A member sends in this reminder to me of a great website to keep an eye on with lots of
good information for toy libraries. www.socialdevelopment.org.nz You and your committee
may like to subscribe and receive your own regular updates.
31
Thanks to Federation
for providing Peninsula
Toy Library with this
outstanding flag to
promote our major
annual fundraiser!
Our Quiz Night raised
over $800 which we are
very happy about.
Our new flags are available for toy libraries to hire $15 per week
plus return freight.
$50 bond payable to secure booking. Contact the Office to book one
for your next fundraising or promotional event.
For the full range of promotional material available from TLFNZ see
the website www.toylibrary.co.nz or contact the Office today to
discuss your requirements.
32
Promote your Library
33
Open Flags – We now have some
available for sale
Recently a couple of libraries have
expressed interest in obtaining some Flags
to put outside their library to help catch
people’s eyes and show that they are open.
The Office has a limited supply of OPEN
Flags for sale $189 each – 1800x900mm
printed polyknit with double stitched
hems, side sleeve and top sleeve.
You will need to order your own stand and
poles from either Adams Flags &
Accessories (www.admasflags.co.nz) or
your own local supplier.
TLFNZ has two laptops and hp deskjet printers
surplus to requirements.
If your library would be interested in acquiring one
of these, please contact the Office for more details.
34
Parenting Inc and TLFNZ
TLFNZ is continuing to work with Parenting Inc and contribute to their toybox
section of the Parenting Magazine. The spring issue promotes Ballerina’s – maybe you
might like to promote theme play in your library as well?
toybox
What will your kids be when they
grow up? Develop their interest at
a young age and it may well be the
start of an active future.
What will Nina wear today? A modern twist on traditional paper
dolls, this durable wooden dress-up doll displays her fashion
sense as your child dresses her from neck to toe. A variety of
magnetic-backed tops, bottoms and footwear can be fully coordinated - or mixed and matched - to create
dazzling outfits. Thinking, creativity and fine motor skills come into play as your child decides on an outfit
and adheres each piece to the doll. You can also encourage language and imagination by having your
child create a story around the doll and the outfit she is wearing.
Everyone shares the load in a family
Getting kids to do chores can feel like such a chore in itself that it sometimes gets put in the too hard
basket! The secret is to make it part of your weekly family routine, just one of those things that 'we
always do' rather than something which only happens occasionally and then has to be debated each time.
Try creating a chart that includes everyone's names and the list of the tasks they're responsible for that
week. It's a good idea to rotate the tasks between family members, and maybe even up the stakes – the
first person to finish their list gets to allocate who gets which chores next week!
35
Check these websites
A useful site to bookmark for reference is www.community.net.nz
This site has lots of useful information, links to other useful sites and how-to guides,
so have a look sometime.
36
Toy Boxes
Some of your library’s toys may be powered by batteries. Please make sure you regularly
check these toys to ensure the battery cover is securely fastened.
Has
your library thought about
Spare Parts
borrowing a toy box?
2 types to choose from:
 Preschool
 5-8 years
Contact the Office Today:
Phone: 0800-148-697
email: office@toylibrary.co.nz
Bookings for 2013 now open
$100 bond for 5 months hire
Approx 30 toys per toy box
Upon complete & clean return,
$75 refunded ($100 bond less $25 hire
37
cost)
Toy Express
Lisa Taylor – Toy Buyer – Toy Express
toyexpress@toylibrary.co.nz 0800 148 699
Toy Express acts as a toy broker for toy libraries sourcing the
best toys at the best price. We are not for profit and I urge you to use Toy Express to keep
this wonderful service going.
If you haven’t bought new toys for awhile or don’t have the money, I can help you!!
I can provide quotes and help with grant applications if necessary.
In my role as Toy Buyer I am able to offer Toy Libraries:




regular information including new products, specials and general toy news
a supportive point of contact for members of TLFNZ regarding toys and toy related
issues
quotes for grants
ordering toys
My hours are 9am-12pm Monday to Thursday. You can phone 0800 148 699 or 03 4821370 or
email toyexpress@toylibrary.co.nz. Please leave a message out of hours and I will get back to
you as soon as I can.
To receive my regular Toy Express flyers and to log in to the online Toy Pack, please send me an
email.
Helensville Toy Library have passed on the
name of a man who repairs and makes missing
pieces for puzzles.
So if you are in need of a new piece, maybe
contact John Watts on 09 444 2156.
Thanks Helensville for sharing this with us.
38
Riding on the NZ Olympic Equestrian team success,
these Schleich Dressage and Horse Jumping Sets
would be great in toy libraries and especially if you
are wanting to cater for slightly older children.
There are all sorts of accessories available, 4x4
vehicle, Horse Trailer, hedges, jumps, fences and a Stable
all at great prices from Toy Express.
39
Top 10 Toys sold at Toy Expo in Wellington:
Large Spin Bells
Janod Giant Magnetic Rocket
Pintoy Police Station, Vehicle and Policemen
Thomas Steamies vs Diesels Train Set
All WOW toys
Smartmax Power Vehicles Evacuation Team
Richard Scarry Busytown Eye Found It Game
Rolly Minitrac
Meccano Police Toolbox
Janod Magetic Fishing Set
40
For more information and prices on these, or any other toys, please contact:
Lisa Taylor, Toy Buyer
toyexpress@toylibrary.co.nz
Ph 0800 148 699 or 03 4821 370
Office Hours: Monday-Thursday 9am – 12 noon
41
Do you consider:


toys, are the importance of play
toy libraries a passion of yours?
National Toy Buyer
Wanted
You will ideally be a motivated and organised person who thrives on getting things done?
Experience in sales, marketing, customer service and children’s development would be an
advantage plus a working knowledge of XERO Excel, computer programmes
This is a part-time position (20 hrs/week), Mon– Fri
(some flexibility in the hours).
Start date: Late 2012.
We would be keen to appoint someone to work with our National Manager in Christchurch,
however, this position could be carried out from any urban location in New Zealand.
If you have the skills and attributes we are looking for:
Contact: National President, Irene Mosley email:president@toylibrary.co.nz phone027 277 5631
wpresident@toylibrary.co.nz
Or: National President, Toy Library Federation of NZ. PO Box 27146, Christchurch 8640
Applications close 15 September 2012
42
Spare Parts
Missing
Pieces?
Current Stock includes:
 Ezyroller wheels
 Thomas/Brio Track
 LT t-ball spare balls
 Step 2 wheels,
handles & steering
wheels
 + much, much, more
Toy Express may have
that piece your
members just can’t
seem to find.
Contact Lisa today to see if she can
source that elusive part and make your
toys complete once more.
Phone: 0800-148-699
email: toyexpress@toylibrary.co.nz
Does your toy library need a helping
hand?
The TLFNZ have a tremendous amount of experience
in all areas of setting up and running toy libraries. If
you are struggling with running or managing your toy
library, contact one of the board members listed in
the front of the Link. We also have area networkers
available in some areas. They will be able to work
with you and if necessary arrange to visit your toy library to spend time
to assist with ideas and share their experience.
43
Dear all,
This is a mail to say hello to you all, to see how are you and to know how are things doing with all your
activities, also to invite you to visit our new Facebook page, and to ask you a LIKE in this page.
We are trying to make an effort to announce activities around the world, to put photos that can show
everybody the magnificent work that toylibraries do around the world.
If you are going to sent pictures please be sure that you have an authorization to used them, because
maybe we are going to put them in our Facebook, web page and e-newsletter.
We will appreciate this permission so we all do not have any problem especially if there are children in
this photos.
Thanks to all for your attention, and I hope my english is good enough that you can understand me.
Hugs.
Mónica Juárez
President
Top 20 Toys in Australian Toy Libraries
A recent post from the Australian Toy Libraries Group Page on Facebook showed that their top 20 toys
are as follows:
Alicia Lepp
Ukulele
Imaginext Skyracers Aircraft Carrier
Wooden Pram
Lil' Scoot Scooter
Lift off rocket
River and Island Balancing Set
Fisher Price Garage
Musical Instruments
Loving Family Dolls House
Fisher Price Space Shuttle
Fire Engine
Giant Fairy Tale Puzzle
Shopping Cart and Basket of Fruit
Puppet thetre
Bouncer Ball
WOW Flip ‘n Tip Fred
Cosy Coupe Car
Indoor bowling set
Mulching Mower
Car - Racing
Most of these toys are also
available in NZ. Contact Toy
Express to discuss suggestions
for your toy library.
44
From their 2012 Spring Newsletter
45
Paparoa toy library raise a word of caution
to that the Thomas Bubble Ride On Train
Engine with lots of activity.
Apparently the funnel where the bubbles
come out is a HUGE invitation to fingers. A
mum put hers in and guess what – lost her
nail. So she is taking it back to the shop
where she purchased few days ago.
46
Fundraising
From the Merry-Go-Round Newsletter of the Victoria Toy Library Association:
As some of these events will require some planning and organisation,
it would be recommended to assign a specific committee position
for fundraising. You may also find that you need to spread the workload
amongst a number of people - or create a fundraising subcommittee.
When organising events, keep in mind that not all members will easily
volunteer their time for such events, think smart about the events
you are planning and schedule fundraising activities so that you are not
asking for too much too often from the same group.
This list taken from
the Australian Merry
Go Round Toy
Library Newsletter,
may help give your
library ideas on your
own fundraising…
Some successful fundraising activity suggestions include:
 Community BBQ / sausage sizzles:
o Companies such as Bunnings, The Warehouse, Mitre 10
 Companies such as Chalk/Parent Direct, Educational Experience offer a 20% credit on total sales.
Ordering can be done online by members.
 Direct Community Fundraisers:
o Companies such as Aussie Farmers Direct offer 2% of their annual total spend back to
your school/club/group.
 Cake stalls:
o Have members and local organisations donate baked goods with all profits going to your
toy library
 Party plan activities:
o Invite a number of party plan organisations to a fundraising evening, most will donate
around 10-20% of sales to your toy library.
 •Chocolate drives:
o Companies such as Cadbury, Mars have special snack boxes for members to sell. Can
potentially make up to $20 per box.
 •Shopping tours:
o Certain shopping tour companies in metro areas offers fundraising tours, with
the potential to make around $10pp.
 • Living Seeds:
o Companies such as Living Fundraisers sell a variety of growing kits (plants,
flowers, herbs, vegetables).
47
 •Second hand baby and kids market:
o Run a stall either at your own toy library or at a local market, ask all members
to donate all outgrown clothes / toys etc so that you can sell them on the day
 •Selling retired toys or donations unsuitable for toy libraries:
o This can be a great way to recoup some funds invested in your toy catalogue
 •Reusable lunch wrappers:
o Companies such as 4myearth or A Good Wrap offer a fabulous range ofreuseable
sandwich bags, wraps etc for your child’s lunch box. You buy to products at cost and
collect the profits.
 • Entertainment Book:
o The Entertainment Books provides hundreds of up to 50% off and 2-for-1offers from
the finest restaurants, cafes, attractions, theatres and accommodation. Your toy library
receives a 20% profit margin on every Book sold
 •Stuck on You Labels:
o Members can purchase labels, tags and other personalised gifts, with your
toy library receiving 20% commission on all orders.
 • Family portraits with professional photographer:
o Companies such as Vision Portraits or Pixie Photos offer different options from selling
discount Photography Session vouchers (all proceeds retained), to members paying a
sitting fee and get a free framed family portrait (most/all proceeds retained).
 •Raffles:
o Organise for local businesses to contribute items to your raffle, sell tickets
and retain profits.
 •Quiz nights / Film nights:
o http://www.triviaoz.com.au/fundraising_guide.php has some great ideas/tips on how to
run a successful event.
So as you can see, the options are endless! As a final point, some organisations which specialise in selling
fundraising goods or packages to groups allow you to brand them with your name and logo. It might be
well worth the effort to do so to help increase the lasting recognition your fundraiser provides.
If you need any further information on this, there are a number of websites available with various
information and contact details. But to get you started, it is recommended to visit these websites:
http://www.australianfundraising.com.au and http://www.fundraisingdirectory.com.au They will be able
to give you a great understanding of options available.
Additionally, if your toy library is resource bound . you may like to do what some other toy libraries do
and that is to offer a fundraising levy as an alternative to participation in fundraising. Members may
choose to pay this amount once a year and then be free of the obligation to help with events, stalls, etc.
48
From the Manual...9.3 Involving New Members
It can be helpful if new members are rostered on duty shortly after joining. The experience will not only give a
feeling of being involved, but create an awareness of obligations such as the importance of returning toys clean and
intact. If they also enjoy the experience they are likely to volunteer for duty on a regular basis.
To ensure the smooth running of the toy library it is a good idea to hold an orientation meeting for your new
members. This meeting could be held once a term, once a month or once a year depending on the availability of
space within your organisation.
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Make sure your rooms are available.
Set a date and time.
Write to new members on your waiting list. Explain when the meeting will be held and ask them to bring ID, a
pen and their joining fee.
Ensure that you have all the requirements you need. Borrowing cards, family cards. Remember to order these
early from the TLFNZ office. Ensure you have adequate copies of your rules and regulations.
When new members arrive give them a copy of the rules and get them to complete their membership cards
including liability and privacy clauses
Ensure that somewhere in your rules it states the library’s policy on refunds if a member resigns. It does not
matter if you decide not to refund subscriptions but you should state it in your rules.
Give an introductory talk to the new members about the history of your toy library. Keep your talk simple but
do include important issues such as funding, where and how this is obtained. Emphasize what is required of
individual members if they have to work on a roster, need to assist with fundraising.
Go through the rules with the new members.
Allow plenty of time for questions. Give them tips on cleaning toys, what happens if something breaks, what
happens if they can not return the toys on the due date.
After the talk get the new members to sign on. They should have completed all the paper work for you. Issue
them with a receipt, membership card and make sure they keep a copy of the rules. [Some libraries with strict
rules on where people live ask people to produce a rate demand or bank statement that shows they do live at
that address. This can be helpful to avoid people using the library once only on their way through town.]
49
Calendar Upcoming Events:
2012:
Remember
to keep an eye on
funding
deadlines within
your own area.
Check for
possible sources
from Fundview
(which is often
available free
through local
Council websites)
Sept 15
Nov 10
Toy Express Manager Applications Close
Deadline for inclusions in the next Link
 Share your news with the rest of us. Send your photos and
articles into the Office for inclusion.
 Volunteer your Library as a venue for a Regional.

Consider becoming a Board Member or Regional Networker
 Check the website, forum, and facebook regularly.
 Use facebook, the forum and market place areas on our website
to ask questions, advertise your fundraisers and buy/sell toys
or parts.
 Keep the Office informed of any changes of contact details
50
Toy Library Federation - Stationery Order Form
Send to:
prices correct
August-12
Toy Library Name:_______________________________
Contact Person:_________________________________
Street
Address:_________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Telephone: ____________________________________
Quantity
Family Borrowing Cards (Packet 50)
Unit Price
Total Price
$
7.50
$
-
Family Membership Cards (Packet 50)
$
7.50
$
-
Toy Issuing Cards (Packet 100)
$
10.50
$
-
Toy Master Record Cards (Packet 100)
$
10.00
$
-
Bugs Are Mean Stickers (20 stickers)
$
4.00
$
-
Please Clean Me Stickers (50 stickers)
$
5.50
$
-
Plastic Bag Warning Labels (20 stickers)
$
4.50
$
-
Toy Safety Warning Labels - under 3years (60)
$
6.50
$
-
Let the Children Play Stickers (20 stickers)
$
7.00
$
-
Carry Bags (purple or green, please state)
Pens "Let the Children Play www.toylibrary.co.nz"
$
4.00
$
-
Please circle - Pink, Green, Blue or Yellow
$
-
Certificates
10 for $12
$
2.00
$
-
Greeting Cards (10)
$
12.00
$
-
Toy Library Pamphlet? (10)
$
12.00
$
-
Colour Posters - A3
3 for $5
$
-
10 for $8.50
$
-
Dad Bumper Stickers (for the car or wheely bin!)
Become a Toy Library Bumper Sticker
10 for $8.50
$
Publicity DVD
$ 15.00
$
Extra Newsletters - four editions for 1 year
$ 24.00
$
-
Open Flag
$
89.00
$
-
CD ROM of Set Up & Operations manual
$
10.00
$
-
Set Up & Operations - Manual hard copy
email, phone or post order form to the Office:
51
$ 20.00
$
P & H (depends on size of order)
NEWSLETTER CIRCULATION LIST
Date Received:
Please read, then circulate;
Name
_______________
_______________
_______________
_______________
_______________
_______________
Sign as Read
Date
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
_____________________
________
_________
_________
_________
_________
_________
NOTES OF INTEREST
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
TLFNZ is supported by:
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