A new national association representing non-profit community toy libraries has been launched in Carrickmacross.
Toy Libraries Ireland (TLI) is the representative body for non-profit community toy libraries on the island of Ireland.
The team at Carrickmacross Toy Library secured funding via the Circular Economy Innovation Grant Scheme (CEIGS) administered by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications for the project, which includes:
- A brand-new website, toylibrariesireland.org, designed by local web design agency, Aura
Internet; - A ‘Playbook’ for community groups in Ireland wishing to set up their own non-profit toy
library. - An official launch publicity campaign.
Toy Libraries Ireland’s remit includes: raising the profile of existing toy libraries in Ireland; growing the toy library movement, by providing information and resources for community groups and local authorities; and promoting play, access to which each child has the basic right to (United Nations).
Carrickmacross Toy Library is to serve as the base for the new association, as well as being a model facility for community groups and local authorities around the country to learn from and replicate.
“There has never been a greater need for community toy libraries,” said Jill Kennon, CEO of Carrickmacross Toy Library and spokesperson for Toy Libraries Ireland.
“The plastic waste generated by the toy industry is second to none, and this was our primary motivation in setting up Carrickmacross Toy Library back in 2020. As we are the longest-running standalone facility of this kind in Ireland, we regularly receive requests for information and support from communities elsewhere in Ireland; Toy Libraries Ireland was therefore a natural progression. We are proud and excited to lead the national movement for community toy
libraries here in County Monaghan,” she added.
“Our ultimate goal is that every child in Ireland will have access to a facility similar to ours,” Kennon concluded.
Find out more about the benefits for joining your local toy library and register to receive a copy of the new ‘Playbook’ at toylibrariesireland.org
