The City of Nedlands is set to reconsider a decision that threatened the future of its last remaining community toy library, after the closure of a similar service left Floreat Toy Library as the sole operator in the area.
Background of the Floreat Toy Library
Floreat Toy Library has operated from council-owned premises on Draper Street since 2021, initially sharing the space with the now disbanded Hackett Playgroup. Over time, the toy borrowing service expanded from partial to full use of the old Hackett Child Centre premises. Its membership base has more than doubled, and it often operates with a waiting list.
The library was incorporated more than 40 years ago and has held a licensing agreement for the Hackett Child Centre since 2010. Families initially borrowed toys from a storeroom attached to the centre, accessing puzzles, games, dolls, dress-ups, trikes, ride-ons, and other toys.
Council's Initial Decision and Reconsideration
Earlier this year, the library committee requested a five-year renewal of its exclusive license. At the council's March 25 meeting, an alternate motion was supported to seek expressions of interest for the site, rather than approving the renewal. The city's administrators began the EOI process.
However, since that decision, the Nedlands Toy Library has closed, leaving Floreat Toy Library as the only operational toy library within the city. A council report noted that proceeding with an EOI introduces increased reputational risk, as it may be perceived as displacing a long-standing and valued community service.
Details of the Proposed Licensing Agreement
Under the proposed licensing application, the library would pay $900 per year in rent, with a fixed 3% annual increase, equating to about $500 per year plus GST. Over the five-year term, the city would raise approximately $6,400 in total rental income, including GST.
Council officers said that signing a five-year exclusive license would enable the city to retain strategic control of the building while providing the library with sufficient security to support its operations. It would not impose the full financial, maintenance, and compliance responsibilities of a lease.
Community and Strategic Benefits
The toy library delivers significant community benefit aligned with the city's strategic objectives, including supporting early childhood development, fostering community connection, and promoting sustainable practices through reuse and reduced landfill, according to council officers.
While the building could generate commercial revenue for the financially strapped council, officers noted that the centre was originally purpose-built for childcare, which may limit its suitability for commercial uses. They concluded that an exclusive license represents a pragmatic and proportionate tenure model that supports continued community benefit while ensuring appropriate stewardship of city assets.
