How It Works

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I join?

Membership of the library can be obtained by completing the Membership Form and paying an annual fee of $20 per child. This library is intended for children aged between 0 and 4 years of age. You can join the Mobile Toy Library on the spot when the van comes to your local community or in advance through this website by creating a new account from the 'Borrow / Return' page.

How can I borrow toys?

You can browse and plan your toy choice for the next visit on this website. However, we cannot reserve items. It's a first come, first served system.

You are welcome to select 2 toys & 1 book from any of the small toys from the moment you register. After 2 fortnights in which the borrowed toys have been returned on time and in good condition, you will be eligible to start borrowing from the large toys (marked with a gold star).

We recommend that you stick with toys which are matched to your child’s age. This is because they will be appropriate for the child’s developmental level and because safety must be considered seriously. Children of 3-4 years need to develop fine motor skills so they need to handle small items. The same items in a 12 month old child’s hands will be a choking hazard.

If you borrow ride-on toys such as tricycles and scooters, you will be asked to sign a helmet waiver form. This agreement states that you are responsible for providing a helmet if you choose to do so. You are required to acknowledge that there is always risk associated from children playing with wheeled toys and that you are actively choosing to take that risk.

What happens if toys are lost or broken?

Please report breakages and lost parts when you return the toys. We do not want to implement a fine system because accidents happen and we do not want membership of The Mobile Toy Library to be stressful. HOWEVER, this lovely collection of toys is a community resource for families to share. Please save the toys for special talking time with your child. This way, you will be better able to keep track of pieces and you will be able to protect toys from heavy handling from older children.

Can someone else borrow toys under my membership?

No. When you borrow toys, you are responsible for looking after them. So, parents and grand-parents will need a separate membership for the same child.

Do I need to sterilise the toys?

No. We will wipe all toys with a sanitising solution. However, please clean physical dirt from the toys and minimise the risk of children drawing on items with textas and crayons. And please refer to the 'cleaning' page on this website.

Can I request that particular new toys are added to the library?

Yes! Please do! If you would like us to purchase a specific item, please let any volunteer know or e mail your suggestion.

Can I keep Mobile Toy Library toys over the school holidays?

Sadly, no! We need to stock take, repair and sterilise. Also, we know that damage and losses are more likely with more children around.

Can I pick up and return from different sites?

Yes! Our electronic stock-taking system will allow for this kind of variability.

Can I help with The Mobile Toy Library?

Yes! You are a valuable resource. You are in tune with today’s parents with young children. You will need a Working with Vulnerable People card. Please chat with any volunteer if you would like to participate in this venture!

Can I donate toys to the Mobile Toy Library?

Yes! However, please do not be offended if the toys are redonated to the Rotary Shop. We have clear goals about suitability of toys and books for this service and will assess donations as they are provided.