New Glasgow Toy Rental Service Aims to Address Cost of Living and Climate Crises

A new toys and games rental service is launching this weekend, aiming to cut costs and waste for families in Glasgow. 

Based in Govan and run by social enterprise Make Do and Grow, The Toy Library offers a huge range of over 650 toys and games stocked and ready to go, with more added each week.

Free memberships are available for low-income families, while regular memberships start at £8 a month. Favourite toys are also available for members to purchase at a discount rate. 

All fees go back into expanding and improving the Library’s catalogue, with local children and families identifying the toys they would most like to see. 

Gosia Dabrowska, Toy Library Co-ordinator, said, “We've got everything from baby sensory toys to coding and electronics. We aim to cater for ages birth to teen so there really is something for everyone". 

The Library premises boasts shelving from reclaimed wood and storage boxes made entirely from recycled plastic. The organisation is keen to promote the benefits of reduce and reuse, with many of the toys being sourced from donations.

"Cheap plastic toys are easily broken and end up in landfill. The library offers high quality, durable toys which are rarely available locally”, explains Gosia.

The library service was born in lockdown as a partnership with Together For Childhood, making toys available for families alongside community food provision.

Over the last year, parents have worked with Make Do and Grow to help develop the project and make it accessible for families across Glasgow.

“It was important to us that this service was led by families”, said Director Kaytie Lilley. "They have determined the whole membership process, from what happens when a toy breaks to the amazing birthday gift scheme — members can choose a brand new toy on their birthday to keep; a benefit introduced to provide every child with a toy of their own”.

The Toy Library launch is taking place on Saturday 11th, 10am - 3pm, during which families can find out more about membership and enjoy brick building, arts and crafts and even a school uniform swap.

The Toy Library catalogue and membership details can be browsed online at https://library.makedogrow.co.uk/