Carnegie Toy Library

MAKING A DIFFERENCE, EVERYDAY

Toy libraries exist because children’s play is constantly changing. What captures their imagination this month might be completely different in six months.

Sharing toys means families can explore new interests, new skills and new stages of development without the pressure to keep buying more.

It’s a simple idea that makes a big difference - for families, for children and for the environment.

WITH THANKS TO THE FOREST HILL FOUNDATION

A huge thank you to the Forest Hill Foundation of Graduates in Early Childhood Studies for their generous grant, which has allowed us to add some wonderful new games, puzzles and learning resources to our collection. 💛

As a community-run, not-for-profit toy library, every grant has a direct impact on the children and families who walk through our doors, and we're incredibly grateful for this support.

We can't wait to see these new additions out on loan and enjoyed by our community.

MEET SOME OF OUR MOST POPULAR TOYS - SCREEN FREE FUN!!
🦁📚✨

Looking for a toy that sparks curiosity, builds confidence and keeps kids engaged without a screen?

The Tolki Animal Kingdom Starter Set transforms reading into an interactive adventure. Using the magical talking pen, children can explore fascinating animal facts, hear sounds, answer quizzes and learn independently as they journey through the book. It's the perfect blend of play, literacy and STEM learning.

Why families love it:
🐘 Encourages independent learning
🦒 Builds vocabulary and general knowledge
🧠 Supports STEM thinking through exploration and discovery
📖 Makes reading interactive and engaging
🚗 Great for quiet time or taking on the go

No wonder it's one of our most borrowed educational resources!

Have you borrowed a Tolki set yet? Tell us what your little explorer discovered! 🌏🦓

One simple change can make old toys feel new again. 💡

Instead of having every toy available all the time, try rotating them.

Putting some toys away for a few weeks and bringing them back later can:
✔️ Keep play fresh
✔️ Encourage creativity
✔️ Help children focus
✔️ Reduce overwhelm
✔️ Support changing interests

As Dr Kate Renshaw explains in our new Play at Home resource, toy libraries make toy rotation easy by giving families access to a wide variety of toys without needing to constantly buy more.

Read our article, How Fewer Toys Support Better Play, for practical tips and expert insights. https://www.toylibraries.org.au/for-families

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TOY RETURN CLEANING CHECKLIST

Before returning toys to Carnegie Toy Library, please:

☐ Wipe toys with baby wipes or antibacterial wipes
(Keeping a packet near your toys can make returns much easier)

☐ Wash toys that need extra care in hot, soapy water
Please don’t fully immerse toys, as water can get trapped inside

☐ Use a toothbrush or cotton wool on a stick
Great for getting into small nooks and crannies
Dry thoroughly with a clean tea towel

☐ Disinfect toys if your child has been unwell
Disinfectant wipes work best
Please don’t soak toys, as this can damage colours

Thank you for helping keep our toys clean, safe and ready for the next family... 🧸✨
It really does make a difference to our whole community.

WHERE PLAY BEGINS

Play is one of the most important parts of childhood... but that doesn't mean every toy needs to live in your home!!! (nightmare material if you ask us!!).

At Carnegie Toy Library, every borrowed toy opens the door to new adventures, new skills and new ways to learn.
From imaginative play to problem-solving, every visit brings something different home.

Less clutter. More variety. More sustainable. More fun. 💚

SCREEN-FREE CODING? YES, PLEASE!!!! 💻🐶

Who says coding has to start with a screen?

The Coding Critters Ranger & Zip set introduces little learners to the building blocks of coding through hands-on play. By creating simple sequences and solving story-based challenges, children are learning without even realising it.

Why we love it:
✨ Early coding skills
🧩 Problem-solving
🧠 Logical thinking
🔢 Sequencing & planning
📱 100% screen-free
🎨 Imaginative play

At the Toy Library, we're all about toys that spark curiosity, build confidence and grow with your child. Ranger & Zip does exactly that... combining play, storytelling and learning in one adorable little package.

Borrow it, play with it, love it... then swap it for your next adventure.

A QUOTE WE SIMPLY ADORE

Play might look simple, but it's doing some pretty incredible work behind the scenes.

Every tower built, story imagined, puzzle solved and game invented is helping children develop confidence, creativity, communication and problem-solving skills that will stay with them long after playtime is over.

That's why we're so passionate about making high-quality, engaging toys accessible to local families. Because play isn't just fun. It's one of the most powerful ways children learn.

TOY OF THE WEEK: TO INFINITY... AND THE TOY LIBRARY!

Buzz, Woody and friends have arrived at Carnegie Toy Library! 🚀 🤠✨

If you've got a little Toy Story fan at home, this Fisher-Price Little People Andy's Room Playset is bound to be a hit. With favourite characters, fun moving pieces and plenty of opportunities for imaginative play, it's one that tends to stay in regular rotation.

As your child plays, they're also building:
✨ Imagination and storytelling skills
✨ Language and communication
✨ Fine motor skills
✨ Confidence through open-ended play

The best bit? You don't have to find somewhere to store it once the obsession passes. Borrow it, love it, return it and discover something new next visit.

Who's your family's favourite... Woody or Buzz? 💙

Tell me, have you considered using your local Toy Library?

What a fabulous initiative, especially in this economy! Being part of a toy library gives families increased joy, improves parent confidence and helps families with the cost of living.

Find out more, and search for your nearest Toy Library: https://www.facebook.com/ToyLibrariesAustralia