Play Matters for Every Child
We believe every child deserves access to developmentally appropriate toy, puzzles and books. Bishopstoke Toy Library provides a community-focused library service for 0-5 year olds. Come and see what you could borrow next.
Play. Borrow. Grow. Play. Borrow. Grow. Play. Borrow. Grow.
How the Library Works
Membership
Lending is exclusively for registered families. A yearly £5 membership fee applies per household. Join our local community by completing the Google form found here.
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After applying, we will send an email details on how to pay. Kindly note, your membership becomes active once the £5 fee is paid.
Borrowing
Members can borrow 5 toys and 5 books per child (or more items if you find too many treasures).Â
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Members can keep items for as long as they have an active subscription.Â
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There is no additional cost for borrowing.
Good To Know
We encourage trying the toys during our sessions before deciding which ones to take home.
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Parents/carers must take full responsibility for the children they bring.
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We understand that our toys, puzzles and books are used by young children and that the condition they are returned in may reflect how much they have been enjoyed.Â
Take a look
Opening times
We are open to welcome you and your little ones on the 1st Tuesday of each month 10:30 – 12:00 and the 3rd Saturday of each month 10:00 – 11:30. Find us in Bishopstoke Community Association (BCA), Sydney Road, Bishopstoke, Hampshire, SO50 6DJ. And yes, we have parking.
Our Mission
Bishopstoke Toy Library is a non-profit community group run by volunteers, providing affordable access to toys for families with children aged 5 and under in Bishopstoke, Eastleigh and the wider area. Its purpose is to help reduce the cost of providing play opportunities for children by offering a borrowing service as an alternative to buying new toys.
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The Toy Library supports children’s development by giving access to a range of play resources that encourage learning, creativity, and social interaction. By allowing families to borrow and rotate toys, it helps maintain interest in play without additional expense.
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It also contributes to the local community by providing a shared space where families can meet, helping to reduce isolation and build connections between residents.
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A key part of the Toy Library’s approach is sustainability. By promoting the reuse of toys, it reduces waste and encourages more efficient use of resources.
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The service is open and accessible to all families, with a focus on being inclusive and supporting those who may be experiencing financial pressure.
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In summary, the Toy Library aims to reduce household costs, support children’s development, encourage community connection, and promote environmental sustainability.
