What is a Toy Library?
The idea is simple. Borrow, Play, Return.
What is a toy library?
Toy libraries come in all shapes and sizes but they have one thing in common. Similar to a book library, members can borrow from a vast array of well-made toys, play with them, and return them in exchange for a new selection every couple of weeks or months. Toy libraries can also support families by encouraging them to spend time playing together, and connecting with other families in the community.
In Australia, toy libraries often heavily rely on the efforts of volunteers to be able to offer affordable memberships.
Why use a toy library?
Members choose to use toy libraries for different reasons. It makes great financial sense as Toy libraries are a great way to provide your children with access to a variety of quality toys without having to spend a lot of money. Quality toys are usually expensive, and children can quickly become bored with a toy once its “play value” has been exhausted, or they have mastered the toy and are seeking a new challenge.
They are also attractive to families who want to live more sustainably. Toy libraries are a sustainable way to provide your children with toys. When you borrow toys from a toy library such as Brisbane South Toy Library, you are helping to reduce the number of toys that are produced and discarded.
Other reasons include
Variety of toys: Toy libraries have a wide variety of toys to choose from, so your children can always find something new to play with.
Reducing toy clutter at home: When you borrow toys from Brisbane South Toy Library, you don't have to worry about storing them when your children are finished playing with them.
Opportunity to try new toys: As we said earlier, quality toys are expensive. You can try out new toys without having to commit to buying them. This is a great way to find out what types of toys your children enjoy. You might be surprised!
Socialising: Toy libraries can be a great place for children to play with other children. This can help them to develop their social skills and make new friends.
For more ways a toy library can benefit your family, you might be interested in this video by Toy Libraries Australia.
Borrow from our large toy collection
The Brisbane South Toy Library is a not-for-profit organisation which provides toys and play materials for ages 6 months to 12 years old (although we also carry a large range of puzzles and games for ages 9-99!).
As a member of the Brisbane South Toy Library, you can borrow from a large variety of quality toys (over 2,000) which are carefully chosen to offer excellent play value, support your child’s development, and inspire their imagination.
In return, we count on our members to respect the toys as if they were their own, and return them in excellent order (more about member responsibilities including toy cleaning here).
Some of our members are also volunteers, and without them, we would not exist.
Want to drop in and see for yourself?
The Brisbane South Toy Library is located in the Richlands Community Centre at 75 Old Progress Road, Richlands. You can access our ample parking from the entrance on Orchard Road.
You are welcome to drop in and browse during our opening hours to see if a toy library is right for you. If you have any questions about membership or would like some help choosing toys, just ask one of our helpful volunteer Toy Library Assistants.
The Brisbane South Toy library opens every Thursday morning and every second Saturday morning. Follow us on social media to stay up to date on our opening times.
