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Toy Libraries Around Sydney’s North Shore

Looking for a fun and affordable way to keep your little ones entertained?
Toy libraries offer a budget-friendly and sustainable solution — giving families access to a rotating collection of toys, games, puzzles, and educational resources. They’re also a wonderful way to connect with your local community and tap into expert advice on early childhood development.

Joining is easy: simply sign up for an annual membership, browse the online catalogue, and use Click & Collect services to borrow toys. After a few weeks, swap them for something new — keeping playtime fresh and exciting!

Here’s a roundup of some fantastic toy libraries around Sydney’s North Shore to explore:

1. EarlyEd Centre, North Sydney

The EarlyEd Centre supports children with developmental delays or disabilities and offers a range of programs to support early learning. Their toy library runs twice a week, providing families with access to an ever-changing selection of toys — all while keeping costs low.

• When: Tuesdays 11am – 12.30pm & Wednesdays 11am – 12.30pm
• Where: 3 Cunningham St, North Sydney
• Website : https://www.earlyed.com.au/our-services/toy-library/

2. Lane Cove Toy Library

Established with the support of Lane Cove Council, this toy library offers over 900 toys, games, and puzzles to spark creativity and fun. Operating with an easy Click & Collect service, it’s a convenient option for busy families.

• When: Friday and Sunday, 9.30 am – 12pm
• Where: Manly and Mona Vale Libraries
• Website : https://thelanecovetoylibrary.org.au/

3. St Ives Toy Library

Opened in November 2024, the St Ives Toy Library is a newer option for families. Run by EarlyEd, it offers a Click & Collect service and opportunities for parents to chat with early childhood specialists.

• When: Mondays, 11.30am-12pm
• Where: 1A Acron Road, St Ives
• Website : https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au/Council/News-and-media/Latest-news/Click-and-collect-toy-library-opens-in-Ku-ring-gai

4. Cubby House Toy Library, Forestville

Operated by EarlyEd, the Cubby House Toy Library offers a broad selection of toys for children of all abilities and ages. It’s a great resource for families looking for variety without the cost of purchasing new toys.

• When: Mondays, 12pm-2.30pm, Wednesdays 10.30am-11.30am, Thursdays 10am-2pm
• Where: 3 Starkey St Forestville
• Website : https://www.earlyed.com.au/our-services/toy-library/

5. Cubby House Toy Library – Northern Beaches

In partnership with EarlyEd, Northern Beaches Libraries offer a low-cost, eco-friendly toy borrowing service through the Cubby House Toy Library. Families can browse the online catalogue and collect toys via Click & Collect at either Manly or Mona Vale Library.

• When: Thursday 10.30am-11am, during school term
• Where: Manly and Mona Vale Libraries
• Website : https://www.northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au/library/services/cubby-house-toy-library

6. Middle Dural Toy Library

A wonderful volunteer-run toy library in the Hornsby Shire, Middle Dural Toy Library caters to children from birth to 10 years. They offer an incredible range of indoor and outdoor toys, puzzles, costumes, and ride-on toys.

• When: Saturday, 10 am – 12 pm
• Where: 1 Sunnyvale Road, Middle Dural
• Cost: $50 annually (depending on how many toys you borrow)
• Website : https://www.middleduraltoylibrary.org/

Little Leo’s Tip:

Toy libraries aren’t just about saving money — they’re a fantastic way to encourage imaginative play, reduce waste, and give children endless opportunities to learn and grow through exploration!