Families gathered earlier this month for the Willetton Toy Library’s first Open Day at its new location in the Rostrata Family Centre.
The move follows a long-standing need for a more accessible and visible space, after years of operating from the Willetton Pavilion; a venue largely used by sports clubs.
Toy Library President Graciela said the former site had limited signage and low visibility, which made it difficult for people to find them.
“We really needed a more appropriate place,” she said.
“Enter Dr Jags who had a chat to Dianne at the Rostrata Family Centre. They were planning an extension and to fit us in they expanded it.”
The new venue places the toy library alongside other family services, including a kindy, playgroups and a child health nurse. Families attending the Open Day were also able to enjoy the adjacent outdoor playground.
City of Canning Councillor Shen Sekhon, who attended the event, described toy libraries as a valuable community resource that supports learning and sustainability.
The library offers a wide range of toys and resources for different developmental stages; including construction kits, puzzles, costumes, musical instruments and ride-on toys. There are also reusable items for events and occasional party hire.
Graciela said borrowing instead of buying toys helped reduce household waste and supported families as children quickly outgrow items.
The library is run entirely by volunteers, with members contributing to rosters throughout the year. Community volunteers, including retirees, also help support regular sessions.
“Volunteering is a great way to get to know the local community and stay active,” Graciela said.
She said the team was preparing to receive a grant from local MP Dr Jags Krishnan to help purchase new toys, signage and supplies for the organisation.
“We hope to expand our membership so we can offer families a borrowing session on Saturdays, but to do that we need more volunteers,” she said.
The Willetton Toy Library is open from 9.30am to 11am on Wednesdays and Fridays. More information is available at willettontoylibrary.org.au.
