Toy Lending Library (feb 1, 1936 – nov 1, 1938)

Description:

The National Youth Administration (NYA) was a New Deal organization established by President Franklin Roosevelt to address youth unemployment. The NYA established a Toy Lending Library in Westfield in 1936, the only NYA project sponsored by private citizens.

The government withdrew its support from the Toy Lending Library in 1938. However, many Westfield citizens rallied to turn the Toy Lending Library into a permanent community center for African-Americans.

Ernest Atwell, Director of Negro Work of the National Recreation Association, organized the Community Center Association in Westfield. The Community Center worked to improve conditions for African-Americans in Westfield, establishing a community center building at 462 West Broad Street. The Community Center Association hosted recreational programs for children and continued the Toy Lending Library.

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