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Harrogate charity's toy borrowing service looks for new members

Friday, 23 May 2025 12:12

Playworkers at Harrogate and Knaresborough Toy Library.

A local charity that offers a toy borrowing service is continuing to thrive as it enters its 31st year - and it's still open for new members.

The Harrogate and Knaresborough Toy Library provides a toy borrowing service alongside regular play sessions from its base in Knaresborough.

It currently has over 150 members including families, childcare settings and schools.

And with over 1,000 toys for children in the library, members are able to borrow toys and take them home.

These include books, cushions, crafts, costumes, soft play, cars, bikes, puzzles, tents and more.

Toys are refreshed regularly, allowing members to save on buying new toys themselves.

The charity also runs play sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10am until 11:30am.

These sessions are suitable for a range of ages and include a dedicated area for babies.

Natasha Bromhall, a trustee at the charity, said:

“We just want lots of young families, grandparents coming with their children to the play sessions to feel welcome and to have a good time.”

The aim of the charity is to reduce waste and inspire a more sustainable way of living for children.

As well as the positive environmental impact, the charity aids parents financially and gives them a place to meet up and socialise with others.

Play Leader Laura Chandler said:

“It also allows for adults to meet up, talk to each and share parenting stories. Often you just need a bit of support or advice!”

The Toy Library also provides for children’s parties, in that once per year members are able to borrow essential party items - including cutlery, plates, bowls and bigger items - before returning them after the event.

Membership for the Harrogate and Knaresborough Toy Library is charged at £35 per year.

Those interested in finding out more about the library, signing up as a member or making a donation should visit www.hktl.org or get in touch through social media.

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