Armidale Toy Library Assoc Inc

The Armidale Toy Library Assoc Inc is a community-based organisation dedicated to supporting children’s development through play by providing access to a wide range of educational and recreational toys. Established in 1979 and officially opened in 1980, it has grown from serving families with children who have special needs to offering services to the entire Armidale community and surrounding areas. It is the only facility of its kind within a 100km radius, making it a unique resource for families, carers, and educational groups.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s mission is to assist young children in learning through play by making suitably educational toys available for hire. Its vision focuses on fostering child development by providing access to quality toys that stimulate physical, cognitive, and social growth, while supporting families and educators in the community.

Main Objectives

• Provide a diverse and regularly updated selection of toys and educational resources for children aged 8 months to 8 years.
• Support families, carers, and educational institutions by offering affordable access to toys that promote learning and development.
• Expand parent support resources, including books and materials on child development and parenting.
• Maintain a sustainable and community-focused toy lending service through membership fees, fundraising, and government support.

Benefiting Groups

• Families with young children, including those with special needs.
• Family day care providers, playgroups, preschools, and schools.
• Grandparents and casual borrowers looking for toys for grandchildren.
• Teachers and education students seeking additional learning resources.

Services and Activities

• Loaning a wide variety of toys, games, puzzles, books, CDs, and DVDs on a fortnightly or three-week basis.
• Providing educational support materials focused on literacy and numeracy.
• Operating a parent library with resources on parenting and child development.
• Hosting monthly social meetings for members to connect and share information.
• Offering a wish list service where members can request new toys to be added to the collection.