The weekly drop-in sessions will run from 27 April at Hereford, Leominster, Ross‑on‑Wye and Ledbury libraries, offering a welcoming space for children aged 0–5 years and their families.

Building on the success of the libraries’ popular Storytime sessions, Stay and Play gives families the chance to enjoy toys, games, crafts and stories in a relaxed and friendly environment and supports early learning and development in young children through play.

The sessions aim to make libraries fun, inclusive places where families can meet and feel part of their local community. 

Parents and carers can find out more about the Stay and Play sessions by contacting Hereford, Leominster, Ross‑on‑Wye or Ledbury libraries, or by visiting the Herefordshire Libraries Storytimes and Stay and Play Eventbrite page.

Cllr Ivan Powell, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, fully supports the launch of the new Stay and Play sessions. Cllr Powell said: “Research shows that learning through play is extremely important for a young child’s development. By providing a safe environment in our libraries parents can relax and meet other families, while spending quality time with their children through play.”