Find Your Nearest Toy Library in Brisbane

From increasing cost of living pressures to growing interest in sustainability, it’s no surprise that recent years have seen a remarkable surge in popularity of toy libraries in Australia. And honestly, we are wholeheartedly here for it! These libraries are not only a place of joy for children but also an invaluable resource for busy parents seeking sustainable, educational and affordable play options. 

Toy Libraries Australia, the peak body for these libraries, supports over 280 not-for-profit toy libraries across the country, promoting the revolutionary model of toy swapping and even offering resources for communities to start their own toy libraries.

How does a toy library work?

A toy library functions pretty similarly to a traditional library, but instead of books, it lends toys. You can even find party supplies and costumes at some toy libraries. These libraries offer a vast array of quality toys designed to support children's skill development and imagination. 

Not sure how it all works, exactly? By signing up, you can usually expect:

• Quality educational toys and resources for loan – often, these are prohibitively expensive to purchase outright!

• A cost-effective membership, usually requiring an annual subscription (thrifty life hack: you can often slash the cost even further by volunteering in the toy library).

• Catering primarily to younger children.

• A variety of items covering different stages of growth and development.

• Regular operating hours on set days (which unfortunately means you will have to plan your visits in advance – but usually, weekends are available).

Something else that’s quite unique about toy libraries is that they’re all different, with unique characters and quirks! For example, you can unexpectedly discover a toy library within a local community centre, while others may operate from home; some have hundreds of members while others are tiny and rely solely on staff or member volunteers. 

You never know what you’ll find but one thing is for certain - Australian toy libraries are so good they’re practically a viral internet sensation! 

What are the benefits of a toy library?

Where do we even start? Toy libraries have so many multifaceted benefits, such as:

• Educational and Developmental: They provide access to a range of quality toys that contribute to a child's developmental stages, including STEM toys, fostering imagination and learning.

• Financial and Environmental: Joining a toy library offers a cost-effective alternative to buying new toys, helping families save money while participating in a circular economy.

• Community Building: Toy libraries create a wonderful platform for busy parents and caregivers to meet, share experiences, and learn from each other, strengthening community bonds and offering an elusive village that many of us may not have.

• Variety and Accessibility: Through the continuous toys exchange, children get to experience a broader range of play experiences than they might at home, often including access to large and expensive items like bikes and scooters.

• Support for Parents and Caregivers: A seemingly humble local toy library can provide vital resources and knowledge about child development and the importance of play, assisting parents and caregivers in choosing suitable toys for different ages and stages.

Toy libraries in Australia represent a unique blend of fun, education, and sustainability. Much more than just a collection of second-hand toys, they are community hubs where children learn, families connect, and sustainable living is promoted. With the concept’s rising popularity, a toy library membership is set to become a family staple in the country, fostering a love for play and learning in young minds.

Brisbane toy library directory

Play Matters Toy Library

Address: 112 Vendale Ave, Moorooka QLD 4105
Email: playmatters2018@gmail.com
Opening times: Saturday 9:00am - 2:00pm (1st and 3rd Sat of each month)

Carindale Toy Library

Address: 27 Narracott St, Carindale QLD 4152
Email: carindaletoylibrary@gmail.com
Opening times: Monday: 10:00 - 12:00 (Usually 1st Mon each month); Saturday: 10:00 - 12:00 (Usually 2nd and 4th Sat)

Brisbane South Toy Library

Address: 75 Old Progress Rd, Richlands QLD 4077
Email: brissouth.toylibrary@gmail.com
Opening times: Thursday 9.30am - 11.00am; Saturday 9.30am - 11.00am (Fortnightly)

CPL’s Resource and Toy Library

Address: 50 Shottery St, Yeronga QLD 4104
Email: resources@cpl.org.au
Opening times: By appointment only. To make an appointment, call 1300 497 437.

Inala Toy Well 

Address: Inala State School, Rosemary Street and Glenala Road, Inala QLD 4077
Email: hello@toywell.org.au
Opening times: Contact the Toy Well by email to find out the current operational arrangements. As a free, volunteer-run service, availability may vary.