How do I become I member?
You can join online or in the Toy Library with one of our friendly volunteers. You will need to have a membership to the Newcastle Region Library. It is free to join and can be done on their website or in the library itself. It is easiest for our volunteers if you can bring the library card with you to the Toy Library.
How many toys can I borrow and how much is it?
For a child membership, you can borrow 3 toys for up to a month ($25 for 12 months membership).
For a family membership, you can borrow 6 toys for up to a month ($35 for 12 months membership).
Group memberships are available for organisations such as Family Day cares and playgroups, you can borrow 10 toys ($75 for 12 month membership).
How long can I borrow toys for?
Toys can be borrowed for up to a month. You can renew them as per the Newcastle Library regulations. You can do this online on the Newcastle Region Library website or app, in person at any Newcastle Region Library or by phone.
When can I borrow toys?
Toys can be borrowed 9.30am-11.45am Saturdays only.
What should I do with my toys in an emergency situation?
In case of natural disaster or domestic violence, please know that the safety of yourself and your children is our priority. Please never place yourself in harm in order to return our toys. If you aren't able to return toys for these reasons, please email us to let us know which toys they are. This way we are not awaiting their return.
When can I return toys?
Small toys can be returned anytime the New Lambton Library is open (see here for hours of opening). If they are large toys, or if there are any issues with the toy, please return them on Saturdays.
Is the library open on public holidays?
No - generally the Toy Library is closed. If the New Lambton Library is closed for public holidays, the Toy Library will also be closed.
What do I do if I notice a missing piece when I borrow the toy?
Please let the volunteer/library staff know upon returning the toy that there is a missing piece.
What do I do if I lose a piece?
You have a few options:
What do I do if a toy breaks while I have it?
Please let the volunteer/library staff know upon returning the toy. We understand accidents happen and will attempt to repair the toy. If the toy was wilfully damaged (as opposed to general wear and tear of the toy), you may be asked to pay the replacement cost.
Are the toys clean?
All toys get cleaned with antibacterial wipes when returned. If you borrow a costume / fabric toy, we request that you please wash it before returning it. Please return all toys dry.
Do you accept toy donations?
We do accept donations of quality toys, games and puzzles in excellent condition. As space is limited in the Toy Library, we ask that you get prior approval for donations by contacting us by email or on Facebook.
Can I volunteer?
Yes!! We are always looking for more volunteers to help out on Saturdays 9.30-11.45am. Your role would include cleaning and counting toy parts, keeping the space tidy and signing up new members. We also have a volunteer committee who help keep the library running smoothly. Please send us a message or chat to a volunteer in the library if you would like to help on the committee. email or Facebook
Can I reserve toys?
We do not reserve specific toys but we have a wide selection of toys and high turnaround. We feel confident you will find toys in the library you would like to borrow at any time you visit.
If you have any other questions, please get in touch with us via email or message us on Facebook . We look forward to seeing you in the Toy Library soon.