All toys have a contents list. To avoid misunderstandings when you return toys, check the contents of each borrowed item against its list as soon as you get home. Let the library know immediately by email or phone if there are missing or broken pieces.

Please look after the toys that you borrow to ensure their longevity. If any toys are not up to the standard that you expect, please inform one of the librarians.

Put toys away if young visitors arrive, unless they are closely supervised. Try restricting use of inside toys to one place or one room to make it easier to find parts when toys are due back.

Repairs

Please make minor repairs to toys or packaging if you can. Toys should not be issued if they are broken. If a toy that you have borrowed has broken, please inform the librarian who will arrange to either get it fixed or be replaced.

Packaging

If possible, remove toys from their packaging (plastic bags should not be given to the children) and store the containers in a safe place at home. It is helpful if small pieces are kept in small bags. Please use elastic bands if you see fit. Please return puzzles completed so it is easier for our volunteers to see all the pieces are there.Please return toys in the correct packaging.

Cleaning of toys

Please clean toys before returning them and make sure they are dry (especially water toys). If you return toys that are dirty, you will be asked to take them home to clean.

Recommended cleaning items:

• Ammonia-based spray cleaner (such as “Spray & Wipe”)
• Antibacterial wipes
• Disinfectant (such as “Dettol”)
• Sponge cloth
• Toothpicks
• Old toothbrush

Most toys can be washed with normal dishwashing liquid, using heavier-duty cleaners for more stubborn marks. Get into corners with an old toothbrush and toothpicks wrapped in cotton wool. Please dry well.

Leaving items such as Lego and construction blocks to drain on a clean tea-towel overnight is ideal.

Please do not soak wooden toys, or any toys with labels etc.

Rattles and Baby Toys

Must not be immersed in water as it can get inside, rendering the toy useless. Wipe thoroughly with hot water, a sponge cloth with a small amount of cleaner as recommended above. We recommend for the safety of your child that you do this prior to giving the toy to your child and again before you return it.

Ride-on Vehicles and Outdoor Toys

These must be returned clean. Please protect outside toys from the weather. If possible store indoors at night and keep them secure if you are away from the property.

Puzzles and Games

Wooden puzzles can be wiped over, or if necessary washed gently. Cardboard should be wiped over with a slightly damp sponge cloth.