Alexandra Library team leader Kelly Campbell, who has worked at the community hub for more than 20 years, said the holiday programme was about more than just books.
“It helps keep people connected, it’s social. Libraries are not just about reading — they're about getting out and doing things too,” she said.
“These kinds of activities are a great space for kids to come. We have lots of families and grandparents with grandchildren that join too. It’s a brilliant way to meet new people.”
From board games, Lego and craft sessions, the programme is running across Central Otago’s main libraries, including Cromwell, Roxburgh and Maniototo.
Among those attending was local mother Emma Ishikawa and her children, who are regulars at the library.
“We come every Tuesday for story time for preschoolers,” she said.
Her 5-year-old daughter Sophie is just starting school, so the holiday programme has helped with the transition, Mrs Ishikawa said.
“It’s really great to be able to come here, let her have fun and be around other kids.”
Mrs Ishikawa said her 7-year-old son often joins in too, making the sessions a regular family outing.
Activities include a drop-in board games day, a supervised craft session, and a Lego drop-in session.
The library is also reintroducing their weekly Lego club which will return on Wednesday afternoons from 3.15pm to 4.30pm, back by popular demand.
Mrs Campbell said the programme was particularly valuable during the colder months, offering a warm, welcoming indoor space for children of all ages, including preschoolers accompanied by an adult.
