What does it cost to become a member?
Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership you choose. Options start from $60 per year, with concession rates available. Visit our Membership page for full details.
How many toys can I borrow?
| Small Membership | 3 plus a puzzle |
| Large Membership | 6 plus a puzzle |
| Family Daycare or Organisation | 6 plus a puzzle |
How long can I borrow toys for?
Toys are loaned for a period of three weeks. Most toys can be renewed online via Mibase.
The exception is Party Packs (one week hire) and Gold Star toys. These are most popular toys and cannot be renewed.
What if my toys are late?
A fine of $2.00 will be imposed for each toy per week.
We understand that sometimes it is not possible to get your toys back in time, but members are asked to contact us if that is the case. The borrowing period for these particular toys will be extended once only by a period of 3 weeks.
What if my child breaks or loses a toy?
Lost Pieces: a fine of $2.00 is charged for each lost piece (or sum negotiated by committee member if replacement exceeds this). The fine is refunded to member if and when the piece is found and returned.
Lost Toys: Members are required to pay the replacement value for whole toys that are lost. One month’s grace will be given to locate the toy.
Damaged Toys: We realise toys will be broken through reasonable/expected wear and tear. Should a toy be broken while in your care, please report it to the committee member on duty.
Is the Toy Library open over school holidays?
The Toy Library is open all year except for public holidays, unless otherwise advised. The Toy Library is closed during the Christmas period.
Announcements relating to reduced times for summer school holidays will be announced on our website, email and social media.
Are the toys clean?
It is the responsibility of the borrower to clean and dry toys before returning them to the Toy Library. All members returning toys are asked to confirm that the toys have been cleaned. Any toys that are not cleaned can be washed by the member on site or re-borrowed and taken home to wash.
If you aren’t sure how to wash your toy, please check with us. Many toys can be damaged by washing incorrectly.
Do all members need to volunteer?
Yes. As a member-run organisation, volunteering is a condition of membership unless you choose to pay the Roster Exemption Fee. All members are rostered with a committee member, and full support is provided.
How can I be more involved?
We’re always looking for enthusiastic helpers! You can:
- Volunteer for admin or toy maintenance
- Join our committee
- Help at events
Interested? Reach out via toys@bendigotoylibrary.org.au.
Can I donate toys?
Yes, we accept donations of good-quality, complete toys. Please read our Toy Donation Guidelines before dropping anything off.
Can I gift a membership?
Absolutely! Gifted memberships make a thoughtful and practical present for families. Contact us to arrange one.
Can multiple households share a membership?
No. Memberships are for one household only. If friends or extended family wish to borrow toys, they’ll need their own membership.
What is your approach to child safety?
We are committed to the Child Safe Principles set out by Toy Libraries Australia. Our volunteers and committee members work to ensure a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all children and families
I have feedback or a complaint – what should I do?
We welcome feedback of all kinds. Please speak to the committee member on duty or email us at toys@bendigotoylibrary.org.au. Your concerns will be handled respectfully and confidentially.’