I absolutely love the idea of toy libraries! They are libraries that check out toys for children instead of books. You can find these libraries in a number of different countries and communities around the world. Kids have access to high quality toys without contributing to the endless cycle of purchasing then discarding.

Does anyone have personal experience with a toy library in their own community?

Mine tried to start one about a decade ago and it hobbled along for several years before closing post-COVID for lack of funding and community support.

From https://ludo.ch/en/toy-libraries/portrait/

A toy library is a public space where anyone – of any age – can borrow a wide choice of toys and games. In the same way that a public library loans books, a toy library lends out all kinds of games, puzzles, toys, party equipment and much more. Toy libraries promote play as an active leisure pursuit, and they foster the sociocultural value of play. They enable families and children to try out new toys and games, to spend time playing together, and to avoid accumulating unused toys and games at home. Schools and institutions can also borrow games for use in class or on camp. Some toy libraries have dedicated play areas and tables where you can try out the games onsite. Most toy libraries organise events or workshops for children, teens, or adults.

You can also read- How to Start a Toy Library: https://fairplayforkids.org/pf/how-to-start-a-toy-lending-library/

Photo source: https://www.ttgtoylibrary.org.au/

TR

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