Toy libraries work very much like book libraries. After joining, families can borrow toys, puzzles, games and activity equipment, return them later, and choose something new the next time. It’s a bit like having a giant toy cupboard that you can dip into whenever your child is ready for something different - without needing space to store everything at home.
Most toy libraries charge a small annual membership fee, but after that you can borrow from a large collection of toys throughout the year. Many memberships work out to less than $2 a week, making them a budget-friendly option for families.
Across Australia there are more than 280 not-for-profit toy libraries, and over 130,000 families already use them to borrow toys instead of buying new ones.
Why toy libraries are such a great idea
Toy libraries offer plenty of advantages for both kids and parents.
- Access to quality toys - Toy libraries often stock sturdy, educational toys designed to support learning through play.
- No permanent storage needed - Once your child has finished with a toy, it simply goes back to the library instead of filling cupboards and toy boxes.
- Always something new - Borrowing different toys keeps playtime interesting and encourages children to explore new activities.
- Age-appropriate choices - Toys are usually organised by age group, making it easier to find something suited to your child’s stage of development.
- Support for development and learning - Many libraries offer toys that build physical skills, fine motor skills, creativity, role play, puzzles and board games.
- Access to larger, more expensive toys - Ride-ons, activity centres or sensory toys can often be borrowed instead of purchased.
- Try before you buy - Borrow a toy first to see if it really captures your child’s interest before investing in one of your own.
- Less waste - Sharing toys helps reduce the number that end up in landfill and encourages reuse.
- Learning to share - Returning toys so another child can enjoy them helps children understand the idea of sharing within a community.
Many toy libraries are also friendly community hubs run by volunteers, where parents and carers can meet others and share ideas about play and learning.
For families with young children, joining a toy library can be a simple way to save money, reduce clutter at home and keep playtime exciting - all while doing something positive for the environment.
To find your local toy library visit Toy Libraries Australia.
