About Mountain Top Toy Library

Green frog with 2 front legs propped up on rainbow stacking toy

Building Communities Through Play.

The Mountain Top Toy Library, founded 39 years ago, continues to thrive in the Olinda Community Hall, nestled among the majestic gum trees of the Dandenongs. Built in 1913, the Olinda Hall is a cherished local landmark and a great Toy Library venue. Set adjacent to the very popular Olinda Playscape Playground and with the stunning Rhododendron Gardens close by our Toy Library offers many activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Other local attractions include Chelsea Australian Garden, sports ovals, cafes,

and the famous Skyhigh in Mt Dandenong.

As a local community resource, MTTL aims to foster a sense of community not just by providing families with access to a wide range of educational and recreational toys, but also by bringing families together, a place where we can truly Build Communities Through Play
.

Our Mission

  • Assist and support families by offering a lending service which allows toys to be taken home for children to play with.

  • Provide a large range of toys and educational equipment to as many households as possible in the local area, particularly for those who may not have access to a wide variety of toys.

  • Help the development of childhood and assist with the physical, intellectual, and social skills of the child.

  • Provide an opportunity for parents/caregivers to meet socially and to share their experiences.

  • Enhance parents’ understanding and appreciation of the value of play and the educational opportunities a wide variety of toys helps in the development of a child.

Rainbow Parrot wearing black and red top hat
Grey wombat wearing a yellow helmet standing on a red skateboard

Our Committee

  • Toy Library President Vivien smiling wearing a green shirt and holding smiling baby grandchild

    Vivien

    Toy Library President

    As a Mothercraft Nurse, I have always worked closely with children and toys. Having three children of my own, creativity has played a big role in our lives. Joining our local Toy Library allowed us to access quality toys and live more sustainably at a minimal cost.

    I am a strong believer in voluntary work and have been involved with organisations like the Multiple Birth Association and as a Scout leader. My involvement with the Toy Library began in 1994 when I started selecting toys for the local Occasional Care, where I was working based at Mt Dandenong PreSchool. In 2010, I joined the Olinda Toy Library and became its President in 2016.

    Now, with a grandchild, I have the joy of watching toys being enjoyed once more. I am passionate about finding toys that suit our community— I focus on selecting toys that encourage open-ended play, allowing children to use their imagination. Along with high quality, sustainable toys that can be enjoyed by children of all ages.

    My hope for the Toy Library is that it continues to grow, offering toys that meet the needs of all children, while supporting the unique environment in the hills.
  • Toy Library Treasurer Peter smiling

    Peter

    Treasurer

    As the Treasurer for the Mountain Top Toy Library, I bring a wealth of experience from my background working for the Mornington Peninsula Shire, where I managed data, spreadsheets, training, finances, and IT systems. This experience proved invaluable when I introduced a new database to our Toy Library, streamlining operations and connecting us to online banking.

    I joined the Toy Library in 2018, initially taking up the position of Treasurer, and also handling toy maintenance. I've always enjoyed fixing things, and this role allows me to combine my love for numbers with my knack for problem-solving to help keep our library running smoothly and efficiently.

  • Toy Library Secretary Joanne smiling and wearing a orange and white dress. She is holding 2 young children wearing blue overalls. They are outside in a park.

    Jo

    Secretary


    I joined the toy library when my eldest son was 6 months old and we were in and out of covid lockdowns. I was first introduced to the toy library through the local Maternal Child Health Nurse. I now have 3 children and the things we love about the toy library are that it helps us to be more sustainable, saves space in our house and we get to know people in our community.

    As secretary of the toy library, I contribute my professional skills as an Educator. 

  • Kookaburra playing guitar on green shape background

    Intan

    General Committee

    I have joined the toy library since 2015. It has enabled our family to access a great selection of toys  throughout  different age groups as well as participate in community activities.

    I have recently become more involved in the committee as a general member and continue to learning something new everyday.

  • Mandy

    Toy Library Vice-President

    I joined Mountain Top Toy Library when my son was 6 months old. He’s now 37 and I have re-joined for my 3 grandchildren so that I can have a range of different age appropriate toys.

    It’s a more environmentally sound way of sourcing and sharing great educational and fun toys, without accumulating space consuming toys.

    The children have a few favourites that are borrowed on repeat but they also love seeing the new toys that Nanna brings.

    As a parent, it was a great way to meet the local community, and now that I’m retired I have time to contribute to the committee as well as having fun choosing from the great range of toys, games and puzzles.

  • Sarah

    General Committee

    I joined the Mountain Top Toy Library in 2023 after seeing the open sign outside the iconic Olinda Hall.

    My son is a frequent visitor on Saturday mornings and enjoys exploring the huge variety of toys, books and dress ups the toy library has to offer. 

Volunteer with us!

We are always looking for new committee members.
Please consider joining our enthusiastic team.