How to Start a Little Free Beach Toy Library

How to start a little free library of beach toys with the inspiring Ciara of Tournore Little Free Library

In summary:

• Get a local community group on board e.g., residents' committee, Tidy Towns, etc
• There are community waste reduction grants of about €600 from local authorities. You'll need the community group's bank account to get it.
• Use the money for the container if you need one. Tournore's was made by a local social enterprise with marine plywood and marine varnish to make it last.
• You don't need money for toys. Ask locally for donations! Loads of these sitting unused in people's homes they would love to have someone use them.
• Get local authority permission and help with where to place it. Pick somewhere busy to help keep it safe and well minded.
• Ask local people to help look after it - sweep out the sand, check for trash etc, to keep it looking nice and appealing.
• Don't be disheartened if the odd time someone messes with it, prep yourself for that.
• Some toys will disappear but others will also arrive, be OK with that.
• Publicise in your local press.
• Enjoy seeing families enjoying what you've created!

Ciara has kindly offered to answer questions if you have any, thank you Ciara and well done!!!

I love Tournore's simple approach that tapped into local people's desire to be part of something really good.

Look forward to hopefully seeing some more of these around Ireland by next summer! 🏖 🌞 🪣

#cleancoasts #irishsummer #irishbeaches #tidytowns #irishcouncil #irishlocalauthority