By Miriam Meza –
Toys have taken over the Aurora Public Library’s (APL) Eola Road Branch Children’s Department! Although they spark joy for us, in the tidying up method of Marie Kondo, we know they’ll spark more joy for you! The APL- Eola Road Branch will hold its third annual toy swap!
For the past three months, Library customers have donated toys for the Branch’s annual toy swap. The toy swap was designed as a way for families to tidy up their houses, while allowing children the opportunity to bring home a couple of new (to them) toys. So as you’re doing your Spring cleaning, decluttering your life, or organizing your home, keep APL in mind as a donation destination before tossing those valuable toys! Marie Kondo would be so proud of us!
The fun doesn’t end there. Anyone is welcome to attend the toy swap April 13, even those who did not donate. Stop at the Eola Road Branch Large Meeting Room from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. to select your new (to you) toy! You can find some popular toys such as Lego, balls, and action figures!
“I am amazed by the donations we get each year,” said Children’s Services manager, Angela Van Vuren. “Last year we received some vintage toys from the 1980s and the kids were so intrigued by them.”
It’s not too late to donate. Toys will be accepted through April 12. Need some ideas when you browse through the toybox? Here is a list of suggested toys you can donate:
For older children:
• LEGOs and Duplos;
• Large play sets, kitchens, tool workbenches, dollhouses;
• Action figures, superheroes, Pokémon, POP!, WWE;
• Popular card sets, Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokémon;
• Shopkins dolls, doll clothing and accessories, Monster High, Barbie, Baby Dolls, My Little Pony;
• Train sets;
• Sports equipment, baseball gloves, baseballs, basketballs, soccer balls, footballs;
• Puzzles, with all the pieces, board games, with all the pieces.
Babies:
• Musical instruments;
• Teething toys;
• Stacking toys;
• Play gym mats;
• Shape sorters;
• Balls;
• Push and pulls;
• Stroller toys;
• Building blocks.
Happy Spring cleaning and thank you for helping APL to put a spark of joy in others’ lives!
Miriam Meza is communications manager for Aurora Public Library.
Submitted photo