Toy Borrowing from the Library

I just discovered this program from Cuyahoga County Library where I could borrow toys from the library. It is wonderful. Every time we order new toys, its like Christmas. I keep threaten with my husband that I am just going to wrap the toys we borrow for Christmas because the kids get so excited.

It works like the same as a ordering a book or DVD from the library but the selection of the toys are only listed online unless you visit the Brooklyn Library Branch. I live in Richmond Heights, Ohio so the drive is a little too long. When I order the toys, we usually receive them within 2 to 3 days unless there is a hold on them. We are able to borrow them for 3 weeks and then they must be returned. They can not be renewed after the loan period.  For any late toys, its a $0.10 charge per day, which is completely manageable because most library systems charge $1 per day for a movie. The fee for lost, unreturned, or damaged toys is $35.00. The way this is setup is perfect for our family because the kids only play with the toys for about two weeks and then it is old news. They wait in anticipation for the next greater or betteer thing. My three year old understands the concept of returning the toys and does not have any problems with it. My one year old does not even notice if a toy she was playing with is no longer here.

The selection of the toys is wonderful. The Cuyahoga County Library System states that they have over 700 toys to select from. Catergories included are Baby & Toddler Toys, Preschool Toys, School Age Toys, Within each of these categories the library organizes them into active play, baby/toddler, blocks, games, learning skills, literacy, math, music, pretend play, puppets, puzzles, science and nature, and special needs. With the ability to view a picture of each toy, selection is completely straight forward. You look at a toy you desire or your child and just click on a icon stating "Get This Toy," enter your library card number and PRESTO. The toy will be at a local branch within days.

Some of the toys we have received you can tell that they have been in used condition but my children never know the difference. Prior to receiving the toy from the library, each toy is examined, cleaned, and disinfected by the library between borrowers, (which makes alot less work for me!). These precautions reduce your child’s exposure to germs and safety issues resulting from damage, wear, etc.

I can really appreciate this program because it saves me money and make my life a little easier because my children are not breathing down my neck to buy them the next greatest toy. Even though I will not be able to rent a Wii or Playstation or Action figures, its the perfect toys that I prefer my children to play with because it enables their creative, increases they ability and, creates a positive learning environment.

Below are the listing for the toy collection websites in Cleveland, Ohio:

http://www.cuyahoga.lib.oh.us/ToyCollection.aspx

http://librarytv.cuyahogalibrary.org/media2/toys/indexcategories.htm