Our team

Parklands Toy Library is a non-profit organisation run by a committee of volunteers and one paid librarian. We rely on grants, sponsorship and fundraising along with your membership fees to fund our library.

Our committee is always looking for passionate members to join and help run this much-loved community resource. We're a relaxed bunch of Mums and Dads who meet monthly on a Wednesday evening to chat and discuss toy library issues - the best part is choosing new toys!

If you would like to get involved come in and speak to our librarian or send us an email. We would love to have you on board.

Tam Lindley

Librarian / Co-President

I joined the toy library, became a committee member, then took on the role of librarian all in the same year and have been part of this amazing initiative for 4 years. I love volunteering, I love giving back to the community but definitely, the best part of my job is meeting so many wonderful people!
For my two children, the best part would be 'testing' all the new toys before they hit the shelves.

Zoe Farmer

Co-President

Hi, I'm Zoe, mum to a 6-year-old girl and 3 year old boy. I answered the call for new committee members in early 2023 wanting to try something new, meet new people and to more actively support the toy library my family has enjoyed being a member of for the last 4 years.

I love the toy library for its friendliness and inclusivity and the fact that my children get to play with such a wide range of toys they would not otherwise have access to. Seeing the kids' eyes light up when they find a new toy they can't wait to get home and try out is awesome!

Laura Linnane

Treasurer

Hi, I am Laura, the Treasurer for the Toy Library. Proud Momma Bear to Toby, Alfie and Michaela. Having joined the Toy Library when Toby was little, and initially doing the Volunteer hours - I wanted to support the Library more so making time to join the committee in June 2023 was the next step for me.

I love how the Library allows my Children the chance to play with lots of different toys but also teaches them real valuable lessons in being responsible and sustainable. To be a part of keeping such a valuable asset within our community is a real privilege.

Amanda Abel

Secretary

Kia ora, I’m Amanda.

I am a full-time primary school teacher / Assistant Principal. I joined the Parklands Toy Library in 2022 and became a committee member in 2023. I enjoy being on the committee as it is nice to do something outside of teaching and I like the opportunity to be able to give back to the community.

I think toy libraries are a fantastic initiative not only for the fact that you have access to a range of toys but also to support sustainability in our ever changing world. Our daughter loves exploring the toy library and choosing different toys to take home. The Parklands Toy Library has such a lovely vibe to it and the committee is passionate about providing a range of toys to suit different ages and children.

Fiona Lovell-Smith

Grants Officer

Kia ora My name is Fiona,

I work as an Event Manager so things get a bit crazy for me from time to time.

I am a Mum to one little 6 year old boy, who is now not so little. We have lived in the Parklands area since before he was born. I joined the committee in 2019. We have had a few rough years, but I love the resilience of the community, which has helped us grow and move forward over the years.

Kate Fletcher

Committee Member

Kia ora, I'm Kate.

I am currently dedicating myself to being a full-time mum to Olivia and Liam after taking leave from primary school teaching. I was drawn to the Parklands Toy Library when looking for ways to support my children’s play and development without having to buy lots of things that they would soon outgrow. I love that the variety available at the toy library means that there is always something they will like which matches their current interests and development. I also like that the toys my children get to enjoy are shared with others - it's great to know that other children are finding similar joy and that we are doing a bit to support sustainability.

I joined the Parklands Toy Library in 2022 and shortly after joined the committee. I enjoy being on the committee as it is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and to support the happiness and learning of the families in our community.