Donations Accepted Nov. 25 and 26

By Grace Allen

A community toy and children’s book swap will return for its fourth year on Saturday, November 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wrentham’s Fiske Public Library. The free event invites families to “shop” for gently used toys and books just in time for the holidays.

Organized by Alexander Cassie and his wife, Krista Andberg, the event began as a way to manage the overflow of toys their three children had outgrown. 

“The whole thing about toys is that kids naturally age out of them,” Cassie explained. “They’re still perfectly wonderful for the next kid down the line — maybe your child doesn’t want them anymore, but someone else will love them. This swap keeps those items in our community instead of in a landfill.”

After last year’s strong turnout, organizers are planning a slightly expanded setup this time around.

“We were thrilled by the enthusiasm last year,” Cassie said. “This year we may use additional space in the library for the children’s books so people aren’t on top of each other. We want to make sure there’s room for everyone to browse and enjoy.”

Donations should be in good condition, and bicycles and clothing will not be accepted. Items can be dropped off at the Fiske Library on Tuesday, November 25, from 4 to 8 p.m., or on Wednesday, November 26, from 10 a.m. to noon. Shoppers are asked to bring their own bags on the day of the swap.

The event’s philosophy is rooted in sustainability and community connection. Cassie compares the swap to local “Buy Nothing” groups — a chance to pass on still-useful items without the cost, packaging, or environmental impact of buying new.

“There’s so much waste, so much packaging, and so much expense that comes with the holidays,” he said. “Sometimes the most meaningful gift is something in a paper grocery bag that still has a lot of life and love left in it.”

Some items even make multiple appearances at the swap. Cassie shared the story of a ride-on Thomas the Tank Engine toy that’s been passed from family to family — returning to the swap for consecutive years.

“That’s exactly why this event exists,” Cassie said. “It’s wonderful to see beloved toys keep finding new homes.”

While the swap has a casual, community feel, plenty of planning goes into organizing the hundreds of items that come in each year. Cassie and volunteers spend the days before Thanksgiving sorting donations into categories — from stuffed animals and dolls to Legos, cars, and outdoor play gear — to make shopping easier.

“We want to make it feel a little like a department store,” Cassie said. “If someone’s looking for superhero toys or picture books, we can point them right to it. With that many items, a little organization goes a long way.”

Last year, leftover toys and books were donated to the Salvation Army, but this year organizers are exploring new options, possibly partnering with a resale thrift organization or holding a fundraiser through a group like Savers.

Despite the abundance of donations, Cassie noted that most of the items find new homes quickly.

“Even though the swap only runs a few hours, it’s amazing how much disappears by the end,” he said. “We still have a few carloads to donate afterward, but the vast majority is re-homed.”

Community response has been overwhelmingly positive. Cassie said visitors to the swap are grateful for the opportunity to declutter, share, and save money while “shopping” for and with their children.

“This is such a win-win,” he said. “Half the people don’t want certain things anymore, and the other half are thrilled to find them. It’s neighbors helping neighbors — and that’s what makes it so special.”