St. Paul council adopts resolution recognizing Minnesota Toy Library’s first year

The St. Paul City Council adopted a resolution recognizing the Minnesota Toy Library’s one-year anniversary and praised the nonprofit’s efforts to increase toy access for families and reduce waste.

The resolution, introduced during the consent agenda as item 18, formally uplifts the toy library for operating three sites (including one at Progressive Baptist Church in Ward 7) and serving roughly 550 current members with a circulating inventory the presenters described as “about 10,000 toys between 3 locations.”

Council President Johnson presented the resolution and invited representatives from the Minnesota Toy Library to speak to the council. Rebecca Nutter, the toy library’s executive director, described the program: “Our mission is to reduce waste associated with playtime, foster child development, and build a community of members who care about kids and the environment.” Theresa Eisenbys, the library’s Northeast director, said the library accepts donated toys appropriate for children ages 0–5 and runs a sliding-scale annual membership fee, with scholarships available.

Council members who spoke in support said the program advances multiple city priorities. Council Member Provetsky called the library’s funding through a waste-reduction grant “absurdly cool,” and multiple members noted the benefit to low-income families and potential volunteer opportunities for students. The council moved approval of the resolution and adopted it by voice vote.

The resolution recognizes the Minnesota Toy Library’s work at its three site locations and names Rebecca Nutter and local site staff in its text. The vote on the consent item that included the resolution was recorded as in favor, with no opposition.