Judith is a volunteer at Speel-O-Theek MultiSpel: ‘A toy store is nothing there’

Judith has been the face of Speel-O-Theek MultiSpel in the Meerzicht district for 32 years. This is a kind of library but with hundreds of games, toys and teaching materials. For the little ones there is a ball box and a play corner. Indebuurt took a look behind the scenes of this toy paradise where everyone is welcome to borrow a game.

Many Zoetermeerder grew up with the toys of Speel-O-Theek MultiSpel. This toy library has been around since 1976 and their games are suitable for everyone.

Occupied by

Judith (73) has been working as a volunteer at MultiSpel and with great pleasure for years. She loves children and despite her age, a busy bee. It makes her happy when a child makes progress through a game. Whether you look around with wide eyes and shouts: “It looks like the Bart Smit here”. Adults are also welcome, schools and children’s physios, people with or without disabilities. The range of game has now grown considerably and there is something for everyone. “Some people have been members for 20 years! Then you really build a bond,” says Judith. Members come not only for the games but also for a chat. Sometimes they bring something tasty. Judith finds that social contact at least so important.

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Game person

Judith himself loves games. She proudly shows her favorite games: Eurospel and Qwirkle. She regularly plays a game with her grandchildren. She can really enjoy that. “A person does not have to have everything himself,” she says. “Why would you buy expensive games if you can borrow them? And that is sustainable too”. The games are neatly sorted by color and target group. After all these years, Judith knows exactly which game suits whom. She likes to give advice and helps members on their way. “I am a real people person,” she says with a smile.

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A person does not have to have everything himself and borrowing is sustainable

Helping hands

Multi game is an appointment a few times a month open. Judith hopes that multi -game can open more often in the future. Extra volunteers are needed for that. Perhaps there will also be a free walk -in moment. “It would be nice if the weather became a meeting place. A place where people can share experiences,” says Judith. Next year Multensel will be 50 years old. That must of course be celebrated in a big way. Nevertheless, survival depends on subsidies. If the doors had to close, it would be a shame forever. But Judith remains positive. “If it ends, then something new will come my way again.”