ABC Activity Time will begin April 29. This is an informal session where parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together in a relaxed environment. This drop-in playtime includes sensory activities, puzzles, and matching games for children ages birth to 5, with caregiver. No registration required. Program takes place in the Community Room, unless otherwise noted.

Children ages 3-5 can bring their favorite stuffed animal to this program designed especially for the both of you. Special stories and a snack will be part of the fun on October 13, 7:00-7:45 PM.
Register online beginning September 29.

All dolled up : sewing clothes and accessories for girls and their 18-inch dolls by Joan Hinds — Do any of the little girls in your life have American Girl or other 18" dolls? This book includes instructions and patterns for over a dozen articles of clothing and accessories for both dolls and the little girls who love them. A few variations for 15" baby dolls are also included. You can see a video about the book and check out more about the author at her website, Fancywork and Fashion.

Wool toys & friends by Laurie Sharp ; photography by Kevin Sharp — If you've never needle felted before, you might think it's difficult, but it is so easy to pick up, and the projects you can create are so cute! You can learn more about the author and see even more needle felted items at her blog, WoolPets, and see loads of her creations in her galleries.

The puppets in the Children's Department of the Library will be unavailable for checkout beginning Monday, October 4, 2010. The puppets will be getting some much needed TLC to keep them in the best shape for everyone to enjoy. The puppets will be available again on Thursday, October 7, 2010. Thank you for your understanding!

Itty-Bitty Toys: How to Knit Animals, Dolls, and Other Playthings for Kids by Susan B. Anderson

The handknit toys featured in this book are cute, classic, and are sturdily constructed. It's a winning recipe for both the knitter who makes one and the child who is the recipient. There are a wide variety of creations here, including a bunny, koala mama and baby, a monkey, nesting boxes, and more. The last section even includes some reversibles, like a cat that turns into a mouse and an egg that turns into a bluebird nest.

In an effort to keep children safe from harmful and potentially deadly toys,  W.A.T.C.H. (World Against Toys Causing Harm) has published its 2009 10 Worst Toys list.  The Trouble in Toyland report by the U.S. PIRG (Public Interest Research Group) identifies toys with choking hazards, loud noises and dangerous chemicals.   For more toy and home product safety information, visit the U.S.

Looking for a quick and easy craft you can do with materials from around the house? Check out this way cool paper castle! The best part about it is that you can use whatever materials you happen to have on hand - if it looks like the photo, great, but you can also show your creativity and make it look however you'd like.
You can also check out our wide selection of stories about castles or read up on what it was like to live in a castle.

Stitched Toys: 20 Stunning But Simple Designs by Kate Haxell includes instructions for making and embellishing twenty unique and appealing toys. The entire collection has a vintage aesthetic that will make these treasures seem like they've been in your family for years. The dog beanbag is my favorite.