It’s an expensive time of year for families.

But this year, The Toy Library is helping ease the pressure on struggling families with a clever new campaign targeting sustainability and savings.

Ireland’s first toy sharing platform is encouraging people across the country to redistribute school equipment like bags and pencil cases to support the environment and the circular economy.

The campaign invites families to donate pre-owned school bags and equipment that are in good condition by taking a picture of the item and sharing it on The Toy Library website.

Maybe your little ones have outgrown their Peppa Pig backpack or they’re too cool for last year’s Spiderman rucksack. If the bags are clean and in good condition, they’re perfect for passing on. The initiative involves using the platform’s geo-location to find pre-loved school bags in a person’s locality or in locations across the country. The website is free and allows families to browse the library and request items for collection.

Charlie Corcoran, Nancy Corcoran, Aoibhe Jacob, Gracie Ponce and Sophia Lorusso. Photo: Clare Keogh

The campaign supports The Toy Library’s ongoing mission, which has seen 2,480 families across Ireland participate with 2,282 toys recirculated since it was established in June 2024. Their annual social impact report shows that The Toy Library helped save 1,700 kg of plastic which amounts to almost €37,000 worth of toys.

“The cost of the back to school period is always challenging for parents.” said Giorgia Anile, Founder of The Toy Library.

“The success of The Toy Library this past year pushed me to look at new ways in which parents can save money and also contribute to saving the environment. Our mission has been to redefine consumption by providing sustainable and affordable practices. This approach saves money and encourages children to swap, borrow and reuse, which is a vitally important message for the future.”

For more information about The Toy Library and how to get involved, visit thetoylibrary.ie/p/back-to-school.