Tucked away down Church Lane in Knaresborough is every child’s dream: rooms full of toys to pick from.
Based in St Mary’s Church, the Harrogate and Knaresborough Toy Library has been around for decades but still remains unknown to some parents and guardians across the district.
Stacked high with doll houses, dinosaurs and board games, the library’s store room would make any child’s imagination run wild.
Before the pandemic, children could come in and pick two new toys to take home every other week. The toys were then returned and swapped for others.
It meant they can play with new and fun toys in a sustainable way.
Now, the toys are picked via the online library and picked up using click and collect.
The library has hundreds of toys ready to be enjoyed by local children.
For a £30 membership fee each year, the charity offers something for every child no matter their age, gender or interests, with the main aim being for them to have fun.
The charity also wants to help people who may be struggling to buy their children presents, especially this Christmas.
Lauren Rogerson has been working for the charity for three years. She said:
“If someone was struggling we’d try our best to help. We’re really passionate here about helping everyone in our community.”
Over lockdown, it has received toy donations and says it can put together bundles for children based on their age and interests to give as presents on Christmas Day.
A handful of the donations ready for new homes.
Lauren and her colleague, Rachael Bolton, run the toy library with a board of trustees. It is clear to see the pair are passionate about what they do.
Rachael added:
“We want to make sure out toys are educational too. Parents can pick up story packs with a book inside and toys to match or one of our pre-school packs.”
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As well as the toy library the charity offers play sessions for parents and children, but these have been suspended due to covid.
Lauren identified a gap in social support for new mums during the pandemic. She set up a new mother and baby group to help women socialise and feel supported.
The group is running from Chain Lane Community Hub in Knaresborough and she hopes it will continue in the new year.
Prior to lockdown, the charity’s members enjoyed play sessions.
The charity buys most of its toys second-hand or from online sellers with a few being bought brand new. The duo are hoping to go from strength to strength and become a real community hub for parents and guardians.
To donate to the charity, click here, or to become a member click here.
