The popular toy library service operating from Mona Vale and Manly Libraries is set to continue for another five years after being supported by Council.

EarlyEd, a not-for-profit organisation who operate the Cubby House Toy Library, recently completed a 12-month trial which has been supported to continue for Northern Beaches residents. 

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said the trial has been well received with a good take-up over the last 12 months.

“Over 103 members have signed up for the service with 997 items being borrowed in the last 12 months. 

“Times are tough for everyone, and this great initiative helps families access high quality age-appropriate toys to support their development and interest; without forking out lots of money and being stuck with toys they only play with for a short time. 

“The borrowing initiative means far less waste ending up in landfill and lower emissions so it’s also a win for our environment,” Mayor Heins said. 

EarlyEd CEO Kerry Dominish thanked Northern Beaches Council for supporting the initiative and helping more families to access the service. 

“Children loose interest in toys they have at home very quickly so why not borrow and return and help them learn in varied ways,” Ms Dominish said. 

“We’d also like the thank our team of volunteers for stepping up with this new venture. Now one person drives to Manly or Mona Vale rather than each family having to make the trip. This saves families time and money and helps our environment by reducing cars on Northern Beaches roads.

“If you want to be part of a project that supports environmental sustainability and children’s learning while reducing the cost of living for families then the Cubby House Toy Library is a program to join.”

The Click & Collect service at Manly and Mona Vale Libraries operates on a weekly basis during school terms. 

Cubby House Toy Library members choose items from an online catalogue and reserve items for collection at their preferred location. 

The toys are then transported by Cubby House Toy Library volunteers for collection and pick up.

EarlyEd (Early Education Inc) is a NDIS provider and non-for-profit organisation providing early childhood intervention services for children and their families. 

Cubby House Toy Library is an arm of EarlyEd, offering a large range of quality educational toys, games and therapy/gross motor equipment operating out of Forestville. 

Council also supports Cubby House Toy Library with ongoing accommodation at the Forestville Senior Citizens Centre.

For more about this initiative or to become a member visit our website.