Toy Libraries

Toy libraries offer services to local families, play projects and childcare providers.

They can range from the provision of small, volunteer run, once-a-week collections of toys in one community, to a whole county operation, with several paid staff who catalogue, clean, insure, deliver and collect toys and other play resources.  Some are mobile projects, some offer home visits and others offer play sessions.  They can be aimed at children of a specific age or area, or may be set up to target areas of deprivation or children with specific support needs.

National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries - Play Matters

The National Association of Toy and Leisure Libraries in Wales exists to support and develop toy library services across Wales, particularly for disadvantaged children.  The Welsh Assembly Government funds the Association to operate an office in Wales (in Brecon) offering support to members and partner organisations and co-ordinating training and quality assurance.

In December 2007 NATLL and the National Foundation for Educational Research (NFER) launched a new report evaluating the role of toy libraries. The report written by Robat Powell and Nia Seaton - A treasure chest of services - examines the role of toy libraries within play policy in Wales.

Download A treasure chest of services

Contact NATLL in Wales

Visit the NATLL website