In Minneapolis, a unique initiative is turning the traditional library concept on its head by allowing families to check out toys instead of books. The Minneapolis Toy Library, which began its journey in 2014, provides a fun and sustainable way for families with children ages birth to five to engage in play together. The library’s mission focuses on reducing waste, promoting child development, and ensuring that high-quality toys are accessible to everyone in the community.
Founding and Growth
Founded by two moms, Laura James and Sarah Reed, the idea took root with a small community grant, initially functioning as a mobile service in various library meeting rooms. As the demand grew, they found a permanent location at the Richfield Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. The library now boasts around 500 members and an impressive collection of approximately 4,000 toys, all aimed at fostering play while minimizing environmental impact.
Operations and Contributions
Rebecca Lane, a mother of three, joined the team shortly after its inception and currently oversees operations. She emphasizes the library’s reliance on donations and encourages contributions of board games, dolls, and other items that spark imaginative play. All toys are labeled for age appropriateness and include a variety of options like puzzles, educational kits, and instruments.
Membership and Fees
Members can borrow up to five toys at a time for a month, with an annual fee on a sliding scale from $40 to $100. This flexible pricing allows the library to offer free memberships to families in need. A late fee of $1 applies if toys are not returned on time, which Lane humorously notes reflects the Minnesota spirit.
Operating Hours and Donations
The toy library operates every other Monday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon, also serving as a drop-off point for toy donations. To keep the collection safe, they only accept toys that are in good condition and suitable for young children, while items like stuffed animals or recalled toys are not permitted.
Benefits of the Toy Library
This concept is particularly appealing when you consider how quickly children lose interest in toys, making it a smart solution for families. Kids get the chance to explore new toys without the burden of ownership, and any toys that can’t be utilized are either repurposed or recycled, maintaining a commitment to sustainability.
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Conclusion
In summary, the Minneapolis Toy Library is a wonderful example of community-driven innovation, allowing families to borrow toys while promoting sustainability and play. It’s an engaging model that encourages sharing and reduces waste, making it a perfect addition to the local parenting scene.