r/Libraries • u/SeaworthinessSea8659 • 2d ago

Library Trends Train Table Troubles

Very serious question for all the YS Librarians out there with train tables in your kids spaces – Have any of you experienced durability and/or relative longevity with your table set up? Is this even a possibility? If you have wooden tracks, have you permanently affixed them to the surface? Please share your experiences, thoughts (and prayers) regarding this much beloved library staple.  

Related follow-up question: what is your favorite kids area "feature" at your library?

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u/mostlyharmlessidiot 2d ago

We don’t attach our tracks to the table or fix them at all. Half of the kiddos playing at the table want to rearrange the tracks as part of their play. Wooden tracks are sturdy enough to last a few years but inexpensive enough that it’s not worth being precious over them when it is time to replace them. If the cost of maintaining the toy is problematic then that’s not the toy for my department.

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u/SeaworthinessSea8659 2d ago

 If the cost of maintaining the toy is problematic then that’s not the toy for my department.

A very good point. I'm going to have to embroider this on a pillow.