Are your kids outgrowing their toys? Are they interested in playing with something new? The Northwest Denver Toy Library is back in action and ready for your curious kids! Families can borrow educational, creative, and instructional toys (like games, puzzles, and costumes) for children up to the age of eight.
The Northwest Denver Toy Library
Located in the Community Room at Smiley Branch Library in Denver
Open Thursdays 11am-noon and Saturdays 10am-noon
What is a toy library? The Northwest Denver Toy Library works just like checking out a library book — and is free of charge. Browse the shelves of toys and pick your favorites to take home. When you're done, return the toys to the library and browse the shelves again. You do not need to be residents to enjoy this community gem; however, children must be accompanied by an adult.
Here’s how it works:
- Some of the toys are donated but many are bought new. They all must meet federal safety requirements.
- Kids can play with any of the toys on the shelves and if they like, they can take home up to three items for three weeks at a time.
- When the children are ready to check out their chosen toys, they bring them to the volunteer who then writes down the choices (all pieces/parts are numbered so if you find pieces under your couch later, you know where they belong).
- All items are sanitized upon their return to the Northwest Denver Toy Library.
- Funding comes from the Toy Library’s annual yard sale and individual donations. The money raised is used to buy new toys, batteries, and supplies needed to keep the program running. Pictures of sample inventory are posted on the NW Denver Toy Library Facebook and Instagram pages.
About the Northwest Denver Toy Library
Started in 1980 as a joint effort among community members, parents, and the Smiley Branch of the Denver Public Library, the Northwest Denver Toy Library is an entirely volunteer-run nonprofit. The Toy Library has been in its new home since early 2020 and has also incorporated a Little Library in this location — similar to the ones seen on your neighborhood streets. The Northwest Denver Toy Library is a member of the USA Toy Library Association.
Interested in learning more? Contact volunteers through the NW Denver Toy Library Facebook page or email ToyLibraryDenver@aol.com.
