Story Weaver Joana Avi-Lorie shares the stories behind some toy libraries in Scotland, how they connect families and build communities, and how you can find or create one in your area.
The concept of loaning toys to children ‘library style’ is understood to have started in Los Angeles in 1935 with the first Toy Library. For many years, this was the only significant initiative until the 1960s and 1970s, when interest grew due to the need for specialized toys for children with disabilities and the rise of daycare as more women entered the workforce. At the same time, the concept spread and was adopted in Europe and around the world.
In Scotland, toy libraries provide spaces where children can be entertained, families can come together to build relationships, help them cope with the cost of living crisis and play a vital role in building a circular economy.
These spaces and events support child development and foster community connections, making them invaluable assets in their respective regions.
And they are a magical place. I have recently become a member of my local toy library at Community Church Edinburgh for only £10/year. Ran by amazing volunteers Hannah Hason and Kathryn Hewitt, it is the place where I have made some of the happiest funniest memories with my 18-month-old son and where we felt instantly welcomed and homed. Every other week we play, borrow a new toy, have some snacks, catch up with friends and make new friends. It keeps the often creeping sense of isolation one can feel as a full-time carer at bay by healing it with community, shared joy and the rewarding feeling of avoiding excessive consumption.
In conversation with Sylvia, who works at the Scottish Parliament creche my son attends, I was pleased to discover that 20 years ago, toy libraries were already providing a lot of joy and value for communities in the Edinburgh and Lothians area. When her daughter was a baby, Sylvia joined a group of mothers who took over a toy library based in their local community centre in an East Lothian town.
Sylvia’s daughter was at a stage where she was exploring lots of different types of play. It was a good way of letting her explore a wider range of toys/play equipment without filling the house and finding out which ones interested her more before committing to buying something similar.
“It was great that the children had the chance to explore a wide variety of toys and for us parents, the benefits were that it was a great place to meet other parents”, she tells me.
What about the costs? “Our hiring prices were kept very low to ensure everything was accessible to all families. But the prices of most toys becoming lower (despite their equally lower quality) meant more families were able to afford more toys. Times also changed, with a focus on owning items in general. This led to a decline in the use of the toy library.”
But times are changing again. People being able to afford things doesn’t always mean they will want to, because we are beginning to understand other costs of our purchases besides the monetary costs.
Curious about toy libraries already? Here are a few worth the shoutout:
Located in Govan, this toy library serves families across the city. It provides an extensive selection of toys, games, and resources that cater to various developmental needs. They regularly organize events like play sessions, where children can explore new toys while parents connect with one another. One highlight was their “Toy Swap” event, where families could trade toys, promoting sustainability and community engagement.
2. Playplus Toy Library, Edinburgh
In Edinburgh, this toy library operates with a strong focus on inclusivity and accessibility. They offer toys that cater to children with additional support needs, ensuring that all children can enjoy playtime. The library also hosts workshops for parents on the importance of play in child development, which have been well-received by the community. Their outreach programs have helped families from disadvantaged backgrounds access quality play resources.
3. Blackness Toy Library, Dundee
Dundee’s toy library is notable for its emphasis on promoting local culture through its toy selection, featuring Scottish-themed toys and games. They often run storytelling sessions that highlight Scottish folklore and traditions, fostering a sense of heritage among children. Their recent collaboration with local artists to create custom toys has also garnered attention, making play more enriching and creative.
This toy library operates in various locations throughout Fife, making it accessible to many families. They run a mobile service, bringing toys directly to communities that may not have easy access to such resources. Their annual “Play Festival” celebrates the importance of play, featuring activities, workshops, and performances that engage families and encourage participation.
5. Aberdeen Children’s Society Toy Library
Aberdeen’s toy library focuses on sustainability, allowing families to borrow toys instead of buying new ones. They have implemented a “Green Play” initiative, encouraging parents to return toys in good condition for others to use. Their community garden project also integrates play with nature, providing children with opportunities for outdoor exploration and learning.
Perth has a toy library that caters to families with children from birth to eight years old. They emphasize the developmental benefits of different types of play, offering specialized toys for sensory play and imaginative play. Their regular “Family Play Days” bring together families from diverse backgrounds, promoting socialization and community spirit.
Join the fun or recommend it to a parent/guardian/carer you know:
Find a toy library in your area – https://www.fathersnetwork.org.uk/toy_libraries
How to start a toy library – https://foe.cymru/starting-toy-library-its-easy-if-you-try