Toy and Resource Libraries Toy and resource libraries recognise that play matters to the developing child. This friendly and supportive service enables parents and carers to borrow a wide range of toys, books and play equipment.
All items have been carefully selected to be age appropriate, stimulating and fun!
Find toy library locations and opening times.
Parents and carers who are referred by their health visitor will, where possible, receive a home visit as part of the service, offering free advice on the toys and equipment loaned.
How to join
We'll ask you to complete an application form. Please bring proof of address and telephone number, then we'll give you a card with a unique membership number. Please bring this with you whenever you use the toy library. Please let us know if you no longer wish to be a member.
Costs
Yearly membership fee
- Residents within SureStart areas FREE
 What is SureStart?
- Other individuals £5
- Concessions (please bring proof of benefits) £3
- Outer borough £10
- Childminders £10
- Parents and toddler groups £10
- Schools and organisations £20
Toy loan fees apply to all members and range from 20p to £2.
New and renewing members receive one toy loan free of charge on payment of the annual subscription. The annual subscription is non-refundable.
Loan period
A total of four items - three toys and one book - can be borrowed per visit, for up to three weeks. Groups can borrow items for up to three months.
Return of toys
Toys will be loaned complete and in good repair. Please return toys in a clean state, complete and in the bag or box provided, to the library you borrowed them from. We can arrange for the return of toys outside normal session times if necessary.
We ask for a contribution for the late return of toys. If a toy is not returned, the librarian will contact you by telephone and arrange collection.
Damaged, broken or incomplete toys
Tell the librarian about any damage and return broken or incomplete toys. A donation towards incomplete, lost or broken toys would be appreciated.
Loans can be renewed by telephone
Return toys by their due date or renew by telephone on 020 7525 1534/3903/1581. Telephone renewal can be requested twice or at the discretion of the toy librarian.
Toys can be reserved
If items are on the reserve list you will be asked to return them as soon as possible.
Health and safety
We provide guidance on the appropriate use of toys and equipment for children of all ages and abilities. We do not accept responsibility for any loss, injury or damage caused by or arising from misuse of any toys or equipment, either during the toy library session or by any toys borrowed from us.
Parents are legally responsible for their children while at the toys and resources library. Staff or volunteers will not supervise children.
Members are required to sign the visitor’s book at each session. Toys and resources libraries operate a no smoking policy.
Equal opportunities
We promote equality of opportunity for all users regardless of race, sexual orientation, ability or disability, gender, cultural background or religion. We aim to provide a positive self-image for families, ensuring each family has the opportunity to take part in the toy libraries' day to day activities. Anti-social behaviour, racist language or bullying that causes offence to any service user will be challenged and not tolerated.
Enquiries, suggestions, and complaints
We welcome input from parents and carers in managing and developing the toys and resources library service. Feel free to comment on the service provided or suggest new toys.
Any enquiry or complaint about the service should initially be made through the librarian at the individual toy library. If you are unsatisfied with the outcome, please contact the senior play development officer.
Contact
Southwark toy and resource libraries
Tel: 020 7525 1534/3903/1581
Fax: 020 7525 3901
scotchrita.brown-elliston@southwark.gov.uk
15 Spa Road
Bermondsey
London
SE16 3QW |