A new Toy Library is opening in Glasgow this weekend amid the current cost of living crisis in the UK.
Based in Govan and run by social enterprise Make Do and Grow, The Toy Library has a huge range of over 650 toys and games stocked and ready to go, with more added each week.
Local children and families have identified the toys they would most like to see on the library, which boasts shelving from reclaimed wood and storage boxes and bags are made entirely from recycled plastic.
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Many of the toys which will be available to rent are sourced from donations, with the organisation is keen to promote the benefits of reuse over buying new.
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".
"Cheap plastic toys are easily broken and end up in landfill. The library offers high quality, durable toys which are rarely available locally".
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 gift on their birthday; a benefit introduced to provide every child with a toy of their own that they could keep".
At the launch on Saturday families can find out more about membership and enjoy brick building, arts and crafts and even a school uniform swap.
The Toy Library Membership starts at £8 per month, with free memberships available for struggling families through local community partners. Their catalogue and membership details can be browsed online at https://library.makedogrow.co.uk/
