Unley Civic Library, plus Unley Council Toy Library – Review
Libraries are no longer just places to borrow books, they’re community hubs – particularly this one at Unley!
by Carla Caruso
I have my mum to thank for turning me into a library addict. She’d regularly take us kids to our local one, and I’d be in my element perusing the shelves for reads. (Hello, Baby-Sitters Club, Sweet Valley, and Dolly Fiction!)
These days, libraries have even more to offer, and best of all, much of what is up for grabs is FREE (or close to it).
Unley Civic Library
Unley Civic Library is a particular favourite of mine. It’s a ‘sister’ to Unley Toy Library (which is housed within it) and Goodwood Library – and very kid-friendly.
The heritage-listed two-storey building also encompasses the Town Hall, where its popular Storytime sessions are staged. These ‘story and craft’ sessions (for ages 2+ years) happen every Tuesday at 10.30am. But if you can’t make it on-site with your kidlet, you can even join in by watching the recorded versions online. Collect a themed craft pack while at the library or download the craft templates. The sessions are free, but bookings are essential.
The library’s Babytime sessions, meanwhile, are currently held online. They’re aimed at babies aged 0-12 months. Parents are invited to sit down for 10 minutes, with their bub on their lap, and join in with the staff on some songs. The actions and movements can help encourage your littlie’s motor development and balance, as well as promote early literacy, music, and movement at home.
For the older kids, the library is also the meeting place for the Young Teen Book Club (for tweens aged 10-14 years), the Flux: Writes of Youth group of scribes, and the Young Creatives Group (for those aged 7-12).
For children just wanting to chill out, they can enjoy the library’s colourful Kids’ Space. Or if they’re after a quiet place to study, there is the peaceful upstairs area. (It’s your choice whether you use the lift or the stairs to get there.)
Unley Council Toy Library
The light-filled Unley Toy Library (within the main library) underwent renovations in January, now featuring a circular layout and an extra self-service checkout.
It has a whopping 3000 toys and games available for loan, catering for babies to seniors. This includes a collection for people with dementia. Annual membership costs $50 per family.
What we like about Unley Civic Library
- Unley Civic Library has oodles of great programs and events for kids.
- The heritage-listed building has a fab, airy feel, with bright colours and curiosities galore, and friendly staff at hand.
- The Unley Village Green is accessible behind the library, providing a place for the kids to stretch their legs and play afterwards.
- The libraries are part of the South Australian One Card Network, offering access to the resources of about 130 libraries across the state.
Things to consider
- If you want to borrow any books, DVDs or magazines, you’ll need to sign up to be a member. Memberships to the main library are free, but there is a cost for the toy library ($50 per family each year).
Coffee and food options nearby
- Italian eatery La Scala Cafe & Pizzeria is just across the road. Or you can take your pick from the eateries at Unley Shopping Centre. Bricks & Stones Café is also a local gem.
SA councils – part of your everyday!
CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT COUNCIL LIBRARIES HERE
Location:
Click here for all the Best Playgrounds for Toddlers
See our Top Parks & Playgrounds Around Adelaide here.
For more information on Unley Libraries, please visit the Unley Council’s website here.
What: Unley Civic Library & Unley Toy Library
When: Unley Civic Library: Monday 1pm – 6pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am – 6pm; Thursday 10am – 8pm; Saturday 10am – 4pm; and Sunday 2 – 5pm. Unley Toy Library: Tuesday 10.30am – 12.30pm, 2 – 5pm; Wednesday & Thursday 2 – 5pm; Friday 10.30am –12.30pm; Saturday 10.30am – 3pm.
Where: 181 Unley Road | Unley, SA
Who: Everyone!
All photos by James Elsby for Play & Go Adelaide.
At Play & Go Adelaide we make every effort to provide accurate information to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. We recommend confirming times, dates and details directly before making any plans as details may be subject to change.
SUBSCRIBE
Want to get all the latest events and activities straight to your inbox?
Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter below to keep up to date with our latest posts and find out all the best events & activities for Adelaide families. Newsletters are only sent once a week, and you may sometimes get a special offer exclusively for our subscribers only!
