A passion for play has led Louise Sheather on an unexpected journey, from the bustling streets of Sydney's CBD to the tranquil town of Blayney. But this isn't just a tale of relocation; it's a story of how one woman's love for toys has transformed lives and communities.
Imagine a quaint church hall, nestled in the heart of central west New South Wales. Its walls, once bare, now proudly display an extensive collection of toys. This is the Blayney Toy Library, a project close to Louise's heart.
Louise's journey began in the 1970s, when she was a management trainee at David Jones. She was given the opportunity to manage a toy department, and it flourished under her guidance. The department expanded, taking up a significant portion of the Barrack Street store, and became a hub of activity.
"It was a real success story," Louise recalls. "We had to roll shopping trolleys full of toys from the main store on Elizabeth Street to keep up with demand. Representatives from toy companies would give live demonstrations, and we even had a gift-wrapping team!"
But it was more than just a successful business venture. Louise's passion for toys and her desire to bring joy to children shone through. "I loved helping parents choose the perfect toy for their child's age and stage of development. But what really made my heart sing was knowing that every child who received a toy from us would have a wonderful Christmas."
Louise ensured that every toy was tested and in perfect working order. If a toy required batteries, they were always included in the box, separated from the toy itself. This attention to detail set her apart and built a reputation for trust and reliability.
Fast forward four decades, and Louise's expertise is now benefiting the tiny Blayney Toy Library. Her approach to customer service has once again proven successful, with local families singing her praises.
Kayla Melton, a mum from Orange, is a testament to Louise's impact. "We love Louise. She's like family to us. She always suggests the best toys for my daughter, and I'm so grateful for the savings we've made through the toy library."
The toy library has become a lifeline for many families during a cost-of-living crisis. For just $80 a year, members can borrow six toys every fortnight, saving them thousands of dollars. "It's incredible value," Kayla says. "The price of two toys, and we have access to so much more!"
But Louise's impact extends beyond the financial benefits. She has rallied community support and built a sense of belonging. Her perseverance paid off when she convinced the Rotary Club of Blayney to back the library idea. "They saw the value it brought to the community, and how it brought people together."
Louise's dedication to the library is evident in the meticulous work she puts in. She has numbered every single toy part by hand and uses a sophisticated software system to monitor usage. Regular stocktakes ensure unpopular toys are sold to raise funds for new acquisitions.
"It's been a focus for me, especially during a tough year," Louise shares. "I've had personal challenges, but being able to bring joy to others has been a blessing."
The library's impact on child development is also significant. In August, they hosted speech and occupational therapists who offered free advice to families on the role of toys in childhood, particularly for children with developmental delays. "We want to empower parents and caregivers," Louise explains. "Toys are not just for fun; they play a crucial role in a child's development."
Adelle Suitor, Project Officer at Toy Libraries Australia, highlights the broader benefits of toy libraries. "Temporary toys offer so much more than just cost savings. With 113 million toys ending up in landfill after just one year, toy libraries provide a sustainable alternative. But it's also about the social connection and the community it builds."
And this is where Louise's story truly shines. Her dedication to bringing joy and a sense of community through toys is an inspiration. So, the next time you think about buying a toy, consider the impact it could have beyond the moment of purchase. Toy libraries like Blayney's offer a world of play, connection, and development, all wrapped up in a sustainable package.
