toy library

[haydens#1mum]

I'm looking into opening a toy library and baby goods shop in ipswich area, i was wondering if anyone had any ideas, about location etc. Also would people use it? let me know what you think
thanks

[2wit]

I'm not familiar with Ipswich at all but our local library provides a toy lending service so I would advise you to follow up through your local council/library first to see what/if any the competition would be. If there is no service available I would think other parents in your area would greatly appreciate it as our service is well used (but it is free). Had you considered a mobile service rather than just a store.
Good luck with it all.

[haydens#1mum]

thank you for your advice, to answer your question no ourlocal library does not have a toy lending facilities. i had thought of that and if there was already one than i wouldnt have to worry about opening one.

[Indigosmum]

I think as long as it is well priced you might have some luck with it. I have once before looked into a Brisbane based toy library to hire a Little Tikes Activity Garden and it was something like $40 per month, plus an initial joining fee.. there is no way that this is reasonable.. I could pick one up in the trading post or on Ebay for comparable rates and get to keep the item.. so although I think it is a good idea, due to the target market, it has to be afforable.

[Rhoxie]

I know you mean to run it as a profitable business but If the toy library part was a registered non-profit you would be eligible for grants for toys. (That would mean that the toy part wouldn't be allowed to make any money though which is probably a bad thing LOL :D oh well I was trying to be helpful.

[DjF]

Hi - i work in a library - in the old days we used to have a toy library. But now as they are deemed unhealthy(depends on who i running it i say though!) we no longer have one. There can be issues of items being chewed on, passing viruses etc. I think if you have a way (means ie money and correct cleaning solutions) of disinfecting/cleaning and washing - and are open about these methods you should do ok.

Im not all that wrapped in toy libraries though - there are opportunities to have a home based business in Osborne books - they also do well if you can find some local libraries as clients. Apart from kids books (which i think are colourful and reasonably priced) they also have toys and kits to sell.

I will post the url for osborne next week when back at work.

[haydens#1mum]

thank you all for your advice it has been most helpful.
sherry