Hastings Toy Library Incorporated

Hastings Toy Library Incorporated is a community-driven, not-for-profit organisation based in Hastings, Victoria, dedicated to supporting families and children through accessible, sustainable, and enriching play experiences. For over three decades, it has served the Western Port Bay region, offering a unique resource that combines affordability, environmental responsibility, and educational value.

Mission and Vision

The mission of Hastings Toy Library Incorporated is to foster community connection and child development by providing a low-cost toy lending service that reduces financial barriers for families. Its vision is to be a cornerstone of the local community, promoting inclusive access to quality toys and games, encouraging learning through play, and supporting sustainable consumption by reducing waste and the need for excessive toy purchases.

Main Objectives

• Provide affordable access to a diverse range of high-quality toys, games, and puzzles for children aged from six months upwards.
• Support early childhood development by offering educational and engaging resources that cater to various learning styles and interests.
• Promote environmental sustainability by encouraging toy reuse, thereby reducing waste and the community’s carbon footprint.
• Foster a sense of community through volunteer opportunities, member involvement, and collaborative events.

Benefiting Groups

Hastings Toy Library Incorporated primarily serves families with young children, but its reach extends to playgroups, kindergartens, disability groups, family daycares, and educational services. The library is inclusive, welcoming all members of the community regardless of background or circumstance. By offering both individual and group memberships, it ensures that a wide range of needs are met, from busy parents seeking variety for their children to educators looking for resources to support learning and social development.

Types of Services and Activities

• Toy Lending: Members can borrow from a collection of over 1,200 items, including active play equipment, baby toys, construction sets, costumes, board games, musical instruments, puzzles, and themed playsets. Loans typically last up to three weeks, with options for renewal.
• Party Hire: Both members and non-members can hire party packs, which include large toys, games, and equipment to entertain children at birthdays and community events.
• Click & Collect: A convenient service allowing members to reserve toys online and collect them during opening hours, streamlining the borrowing process.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The library relies on member volunteers to assist with sessions, toy repairs, stocktake, and community fundraising, helping to keep membership costs low and fostering a collaborative spirit.
• Educational Support: The collection is carefully curated to support developmental milestones, with toys categorised to aid cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth.
• Community Events: Regular activities and celebrations, such as Children’s Week, bring families together and highlight the importance of play in child development.

Hastings Toy Library Incorporated stands out as a vital community asset, championing accessible play, sustainable living, and lifelong learning. By prioritising the needs of children and families, it not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens the social fabric of the Hastings area.