Emerald Hill Toy Library Inc

Emerald Hill Toy Library Inc is a community-focused non-profit organisation that has been serving families in the Port Phillip area since 1986. It provides a sustainable and cost-effective way for parents, carers, and children to access a wide range of educational toys and activities. With two branches located in Middle Park and South Melbourne, the library supports childhood development through play, fostering community connections and promoting environmental sustainability by encouraging borrowing rather than buying toys.

Flagship Project: Sustainable Toy Lending Service

Emerald Hill Toy Library’s sustainable toy lending service is its core activity, offering families access to around 2,500 high-quality educational toys across two locations. This service enables parents and carers to borrow toys tailored to their children’s developmental milestones, promoting learning through play while reducing waste and supporting environmental sustainability. The library encourages community engagement by providing an informal meeting place for families to connect and share experiences.

Mission and Vision

The organisation’s mission is to provide families with a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to purchasing toys, supporting childhood development through play. Its vision is to become an integral part of local families’ routines, fostering community connections and promoting sustainable living practices through shared resources.

Main Objectives

• Provide a wide range of educational toys matched to developmental milestones.
• Offer a low-cost, sustainable alternative to buying toys.
• Create an informal community space for parents and carers to connect.
• Support families from diverse backgrounds and means.
• Encourage environmental sustainability through toy sharing.

Benefiting Groups

Emerald Hill Toy Library primarily benefits families, parents, carers, and children in the Port Phillip area and surrounding communities. It also supports grandparents and educators seeking developmental resources. The service is inclusive, welcoming families from all backgrounds and socio-economic statuses.

Types of Services or Activities

• Toy borrowing from a diverse collection of around 2,500 toys.
• Party hire services for members.
• Access to toys supporting STEM, creative play, active play, and developmental milestones.
• Community engagement through informal meet-ups and volunteering opportunities.
• Support and advice from experienced coordinators to match toys to children’s needs.