Helping Derbyshire's children learn through play
Supporting children's development through the extension of play opportunities — a registered charity run by local people since May 2000.
Our story
We were established in May 2000 as Crich Millennium Toy Library — a local resource where families could attend weekly Stay and Play sessions and borrow toys to take home. The sessions gradually expanded into other areas, and in 2013 the charity became Derbyshire Toy Libraries.
Today we're part of the Derbyshire community — running weekly Stay & Play sessions and events across the county, a toy lending library of over 1,000 toys, monthly virtual toy auctions, party packages and baby play packs — all run by a dedicated team of local people and volunteers.
We exist to:
- Support children's education and development through play
- Provide a place for parents and carers to meet
- Relieve financial hardship through affordable, subsidised play
- Keep toys in use and out of landfill
- Act as a hub within the local community
- Provide opportunities for volunteering and learning new skills
Our team
Ann-Marie McMillan Founder & Manager 
Lyndsey Willis Toy Lending & Auctions Lead 
Sarah Dale Stay & Play Coordinator Our trustees
Derbyshire Toy Libraries is guided by a small, committed board of trustees who protect the charity's mission, oversee its governance, and support the team. They bring a mix of experience in community work, charity leadership, digital development, marketing, and local family support.
Rehana Reid Chair 
Jacquii Brown Trustee 
Martin Broadhurst Trustee 
Holly Itzerott Trustee Our volunteers make it possible
Setting up, welcoming families, making teas and coffees, checking and cleaning toys, running events — thank you to every one of you.
Kate Admin Volunteer 
Olivia Belper Volunteer 
Eva Volunteer 
Clare & Georgina Belper Volunteers 
Amy Volunteer 
Jackie Grassmoor Volunteer 
Pam Grassmoor Volunteer 
Sarah & Jamie Events Volunteers 
Nicola Kilburn Volunteer 
Ben Volunteer 
Jessica Belper Volunteer 
Elizabeth Admin & Ops Volunteer Our little boy was thrilled to have the soft play and ball pit at home for his birthday. The volunteers were lovely, and the whole process was so easy. We'll definitely be borrowing again!A Toy Library memberMember survey, 2025
Thank you to our supporters
In 2025/26 we were grateful for the support of: Coop Community Fund, Crich Parish Council, James Smedley Ltd, Jonathan Maycock, Lea, Dethick & Holloway Parish Council, Martin Broadhurst Digital, Tesco Alfreton, and Evolution Solution Services.
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