Toa Payoh East Community Children's Library

One of the most enjoyable itineraries during the Singapore trip was the visit to the Toa Payoh East Community Children's Library on 2 May 2002.  The CCL (Community Children's Library) is a joint project of the PAP (People's Action Party) Community Foundation and National Library Board with the objective to bring libraries closer to young children and to promote reading habit at an early age.  The concept was first introduced by Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong in 1992.  With continual expansion and great support by parents, educators and librarians, there are now 46 CCLs in Singapore.

Adopting the door step concept, Toa Payoh East Community Children's Library is conveniently located in the void deck of the Toa Payoh estates, reaching out to children up to the age of 10.  A funful playground was built right in front of the Library, and together with the collection, it becomes a very popular reading and learning hub for young children.

The collection comprises over 10,000 picture books, story books, fairy tales, and reference materials, available in 4 official languages.  Over 30 video tapes are provided in English and Chinese and many programmes are being screened on a regular basis.  The wide range of CD-ROMs, all educational and fun, are specially selected for pre-schoolers and lower primary level students.  In addition, the Library is linked to the SingaporeOne network providing digitized information and electronic library services for the educational needs of children and parents.

There are also 8 multimedia stations in the Library and children are able to enjoy and learn from an abundance of interactive multimedia.  Here they could engage in stimulating audiovisual games and exciting adventures, explore new places and the world of animals, gain insight into the different cultures and customs around the world.

Delightful programmes such as storytelling and fairy tales are offered each week.  And activities such as puppet shows, magic shows, drama workshops, reading competitions, and excursions are organized during school holidays.  Children are eager to participate in the wide array of programmes.

We were given a very warm welcome and guided tour by Ms Wong Tack Wai who coordinates services of the  CCLs.  We were particularly enticed by the colourful and fun-loving environment of the Library, especially the cosy storytelling room.  With its interesting collection, exciting programmes and user-friendly facilities, the Library becomes an enjoyable place for reading and enrichment, both for the children and parents.

We all agree to "Reading is Fun", an inspiring logo on the little white tote bag presented to each of us during the visit.
 

Reported by Julia Chan


Library entrance reaching out to children

Funful playground outside the Library

Interesting collection and user friendly facilities

Delightful storytelling room