The brainchild of local mum Emma Green and brought to life by a passionate team of volunteers, the Hobart Toy Library is a community-run organisation where families can borrow a wide range of toys. From ride-ons and floor puzzles to programmable robots and marble runs, it’s all available for a small annual membership fee.
Add construction toys, musical instruments, costumes, microscopes and play kitchens to the mix and you've got a toy library built for the most discerning child.
Hobart Toy Library
World of play and curiousity
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said she was proud the City of Hobart could play a key role in getting a new toy library up and running in Hobart through our community grants scheme.
"This fantastic initiative will open up an entire world of play, curiosity, physical and intellectual development for so many young ones in Hobart,” Councillor Anna Reynolds said.
"It will take the pressure of buying toys off those families struggling to make ends meet and it aligns perfectly with Hobart's goals of reducing waste and maximising the reuse of perfectly good products."
Hobart Toy Library president Emma Green.Sustainability first
Hobart Toy Library President Emma Green said the Toy Library is all about improving opportunities for play and learning, while also reducing household waste and clutter.
“A staggering 221 million toys are imported into Australia each year, and 51% of these hit landfill within 12 months. We're excited to give Hobart families an alternative to buying more toys.''
Toy libraries are a wonderful way to ensure quality toys continue to be enjoyed by many families, giving them a longer life and the opportunity to bring joy to more children.
The Hobart Toy Library will be open at the South Hobart Community Centre on Mondays, 9 am - 11am, and Fridays, 3.30pm – 5.30pm (including public holidays).
How does it work?
The toy library is open to families in the Greater Hobart community and has significantly reduced fees for families facing financial barriers.
Members will be able to borrow quality toys, games and puzzles for up to three weeks at a time — without the constant cost, clutter or waste of buying new.
The library shares toys, games and puzzles that spark imagination, build skills, and make play more fun for everyone, young and old.
Memberships are open to everyone, but the toys are typically designed for 0-8 year olds.
Memberships come in three sizes
Try it out (6 weeks)
A taste of the toy library, great for visitors or grandparents.
2 toys + 1 puzzle/game
Everyday (12 months)
Perfect for everyone.
2 toys + 1 puzzle/game
More play (12 months)
Great for bigger families or people wanting extra toys.
4 toys + 2 puzzles/games
Hobart Toy Library
Community grants
The City of Hobart is a proud supporter of the Hobart Toy Library initiative, and has helped the library get established through a City of Hobart $5000 Community Grant.
Learn more about our community grants and how to apply.
Community grants
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