In Malaysia, toy libraries are mainly coordinated by Toy Libraries Malaysia, a non-profit association established in 2017, and are being set up in low-cost flats, Orang Asli villages, and kindergartens in remote areas. With over 20 of these libraries established in different parts of Malaysia today, they serve as essential meeting points to ensure that the fundamental right to play is upheld regardless of a family’s financial circumstances. These inclusive spaces welcome children from diverse backgrounds, celebrating and promoting social interactions. By providing access to a wide range of toys and play materials, children can unlock their full potential and cultivate a love for learning and discovery.
By encouraging children and their families to borrow and return toys, these community spaces extend the lifespan of valuable toys and play materials. This helps reduce waste and prevents toys and play materials from ending up in landfills, thereby minimising environmental impact. Some toy libraries offer toy loan services, which foster a sense of responsibility and educate families on eco-friendly toy choices and responsible buying habits.
As children engage in shared play experiences, they learn valuable social skills and develop empathy, setting the stage for harmonious and inclusive communities. Toy libraries serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us that the seeds of positive change can be nurtured through the simple act of play. By creating more sustainable cities and communities, toy libraries demonstrate the profound impact of play on both individual growth and environmental stewardship.
As Fred Rogers famously said, "Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of children." This insightful observation highlights the importance of play in children's development and underscores the vital role that toy libraries play in fostering both educational and environmental benefits.