Council urged to help provide toy libraries in Offaly

Fine Gael TD for Offaly John Clendennen is calling on Offaly County Council to establish toy libraries across the county to help families access toys more affordably and sustainably.

“Toy libraries offer families the chance to borrow or donate toys, enabling children to explore new interests while reducing costs and waste,” said Deputy Clendennen.

Toys are a major source of plastic waste, with up to 80% ending up in landfill, incinerators, or oceans. A toy library allows children to try out toys without the need for constant purchases, reducing both environmental impact and financial pressure on families.

Deputy Clendennen highlighted the support available from Toy Libraries Ireland (TLI), a new national association offering training and resources for communities that want to start their own toy library. Successful models already exist in Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan, and Clonmel, Co. Tipperary.

“Anyone interested can register on toylibrariesireland.org,” he said. “But I believe Offaly County Council is well-placed to take the lead by introducing toy libraries through our public library network.”

“Every child deserves access to play. I’ll be working with my Fine Gael colleagues on Offaly County Council to make sure this initiative moves forward,” Deputy Clendennen concluded.