TOY LIBRARY TO HELP FAMILIES WITH COSTS
Organisation rents out and sells items to struggling families
ANEW toys and games rental service has opened in Govan in a bid to help struggling families cope with the cost-of-living crisis. The Toy Library, run by social enterprise Make Do and Grow, has more than 650 items available to hire, with more added each week.
Free memberships are available for low-income families, while regular memberships start at £8 per month. Favourite toys are also available for members to purchase at a discount rate.
All fees go back into expanding and improving the library’s catalogue, with local children and families identifying the toys they would most like to see.
Gosia Dabrowska, Toy Library coordinator, said: “We’ve got everything from baby sensory toys to coding and electronics. We aim to cater for ages from birth to teen so there really is something for everyone.”
The organisation is keen to promote the benefits of reducing waste and reusing items, with many of the toys being sourced from donations. Its premises include shelving from reclaimed wood and storage boxes made entirely from recycled plastic.
“Cheap plastic toys are easily broken and end up in landfill,” explained Gosia.
“The library offers high quality, durable toys which are rarely available locally.”
The library service was born in lockdown as a partnership with Together For Childhood, making
toys available for families alongside community food provision.
Over the last year, parents have worked with Make Do and Grow to help develop the project and make it accessible for families across Glasgow.
“It was important to us that this service was led by families,” said director Kaytie Lilley.
“They have determined the whole
membership process, from what happens when a toy breaks to the amazing birthday gift scheme. Members can choose a brand new toy on their birthday to keep; a benefit introduced to provide every child with a toy of their own.”
The Toy Library catalogue and membership details can be browsed online at library.makedo grow.co.uk.