New Mérida Toy Library Opens in Itzimná

Mérida, Yucatán — The city of Mérida continues to create inclusive spaces that promote and foster creativity, critical thinking, and learning through play, stated Mayor Cecilia Patrón Laviada during the inauguration of the second Municipal Toy Library, named "El Mundo de los Libros" (The World of Books), in the Polígono 108 Itzimná neighborhood.

"Since we began taking care of Mérida, we committed to also improving the well-being of its people by working towards a more just and equitable city, and in this way, creating a more prosperous and safe environment for our children and adolescents," said Patrón Laviada.

A Center for Development and Play

The recreational center features four thematic stations designed to stimulate different skills: an Art station for exploring imagination and plastic expression; a Reading station to awaken curiosity and a love for books; a Science and Technology station to spark curiosity that turns into discovery; and a Games and Construction station to strengthen collaboration and logical thinking in children.

Additionally, the library will offer an Artistic Expression Workshop for all individuals aged 8 and above, with no upper age limit, for those who wish to develop their creative side. The facility is open Monday through Friday, from 12:00 to 19:00 hours, and is open to all ages.

Alignment with UNESCO and Local Initiatives

Patrón Laviada mentioned that with this space, the Mérida City Council is working in tandem with the UNESCO Global Network of Learning Cities by innovating with educational programs such as Mérida Campus Digital, where young people have free access to English classes, nutrition advice, and academic performance support with the "Refuerza" program, as well as the "Centros Emprende" and direct support through scholarships and preparatory courses.

"With actions like this, we are forging a city where they can live with social justice," expressed the mayor, inviting families to visit the space and enjoy the offered activities and games.

The library will also be a significant support for families, especially for mothers, as while their children learn and have fun in a safe place, they can use their time to carry out other activities.

A Community Effort

For his part, Jesús Pérez Ballote, Director of Human Welfare, reported that this space had to close due to the pandemic, but thanks to the joint effort between the City Council and the residents of the area, it was successfully rehabilitated. It is now a site where girls, boys, youth, and adults can learn, create, and enjoy as a community.

It was also announced that the "Vecinos Vigilantes de La Biblioteca" (Library Watch Neighbors) won first place in the clean facades contest organized by the Mérida City Council. Furthermore, the park now features new LED lighting, and the paint of the sports court has been restored.

As part of the celebration, the Directorate of Social Development and Combating Poverty, headed by Arturo León Itzá, brought the "Divertiferia" to the park to promote social cohesion in the neighborhood.

The First Library and Ongoing Commitment

The first Municipal Toy Library, "La Magia de los Libros" (The Magic of Books), is located on Calle 88 A by Calle 141 and Calle 143 in the Emiliano Zapata Sur neighborhood. This center is aimed at girls, boys, and adolescents aged 6 to 12 who live in the southern neighborhoods of Mérida.

In this manner, the city government fulfills its commitment to continue creating dignified and functional spaces for all people, especially for the children and adolescents of Mérida and its commissaries.