Toy library providing affordable option for Portarlington families

PORTARLINGTON Toy Library co-ordinator Ann Wise says the volunteer-run not-for-profit has “turned a corner” providing more families with access to toys than ever before.

Ms Wise said the library’s increase in volunteers and a generous donation from the local Lions club has breathed new life into the organisation.

“We have had a few exciting things happen to our library in recent months, namely some additional volunteers helping out where they can, but it has had a huge impact on how the library has operated in recent months,” Ms Wise said.

Located on Newcombe Street next to Portarlington Pre-School, the library closed down in 2017 and reopened in early 2021 with 200 toys at its disposal.

The library’s toy collection has doubled in the past two years to over 400 with new shelving and a new street banner, providing a more welcoming environment for local families and children.

Ms Wise joined fellow coordinator Gabrielle Waller prior to the library’s reopening in 2020 providing a second pair of hands to assist with daily operations.

Volunteers Jean Gaskin, Barbara Castles and Loretta, who has chosen to omit her surname, also joined library’s volunteer ranks this year.

The library received a $3,000 donation from the Lions Club of Portarlington-Drysdale back in March, blowing away the library’s volunteers.

“It was just fantastic when we found out the Lions club wanted to help,” Ms Wise said.

“We’ve really tried advertising our services a lot this year, and we’re seeing the effect with more families walking through the door.

“Because of that increase in demand and after community feedback, we have extended our operating hours.

“Now we are open from 9am to 11am on Tuesday and Thursday during school terms.”

Ms Wise says the library provides a valuable option to local families with cost of living pressures continuing to be felt across the region.

“It allows parents to borrow items that they don’t have to purchase forever and have their houses cluttered with toys that eventually get discarded,” Ms Wise said.

“We’re constantly adding new toys to our stock and tailoring our variety to what parents really want.”

Portarlington Toy Library memberships only cost families $10 per term or $35 per calendar year.

Those interested in joining the Toy Library as members can do so by visiting during operating hours or by emailing [email protected]