Tonieboxes Now Available for Children at Delaware Libraries

The Toniebox has finally made its way to libraries across Delaware, thanks in part to the support and funding provided by the Delaware Division of Libraries.

This innovative audio toy has been a huge hit in Europe, and now children in the United States can experience the magic of the Toniebox for themselves.

The Toniebox is a screen-free audio player that offers an immersive listening experience for children. It comes with a range of Tonies, which are figurines that contain audio content such as popular children's stories and songs. Children simply place a Tonie on the Toniebox, and it will play the corresponding audio content.

This partnership continues Delaware’s commitment to young readers, following the statewide expansion of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library in 2020 championed by First Lady Tracey Quillen Carney. “Early language experiences are essential to healthy brain development and school readiness, and offering a variety of research-informed options to engage children and caregivers is just as essential,” said First Lady Tracey Quillen Carney. “Our 21st Century Delaware Libraries combine the best of the proven with the most promising innovations, and the Toniebox pilot is another example of that leadership.”

Having fun, engaging with a diversity of ways to learn, and parent involvement are critical to engaging young readers. The Toniebox experience will be available at all 33 public libraries across Delaware. “We are thrilled to partner with the state of Delaware,” said Drew Vernon, Marketing Director for Tonies® and creator of Tonies for Teachers. “The first step towards literacy is listening to reading, and the Toniebox gives on-demand access for young children to listen and learn from a wide variety of stories.”

“Delaware Libraries are grateful to State Representative Shupe for his support. This Toniebox pilot provides additional content and innovation to support early literacy and inspire imagination!,” said Dr. Annie Norman, State Librarian.

The Toniebox is an excellent tool for encouraging children's creativity and imagination. It's perfect for long car rides or quiet time at home, and it can help kids develop a love for stories and music. Parents can also rest easy knowing that their children are engaging with safe, educational content.

The Tonieboxes have been added to the Library of Things collection of fun and useful gadgets, tools, games, and equipment that can be checked out with a Delaware Library Card! Find them under the misc category. Delawareans are encouraged to visit a local Delaware public library today and check out Tonieboxes and more! The Division's commitment to promoting literacy and education has made it possible for children to have access to this innovative audio toy, which can help to foster a love of reading and storytelling from an early age.

Overall, the Toniebox is a fantastic audio toy that offers a unique and engaging listening experience for children. Thanks to the Delaware Division of Libraries, more families will have the opportunity to enjoy this innovative toy and all of the benefits that it offers for young minds.