Birmingham Public Library Adds TonieBoxes To Its Collection

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The Birmingham Public Library (BPL) is pleased to announce the addition of TonieBoxes to our collection.

What Is A Toniebox?

The Toniebox is a digital audio player (screen-free) for children. This innovative toy uses audio storytelling to introduce pre-readers and developing readers to the wonders of narrative. The music and stories that come with each Tonie make a great supplement to playtime.

The system combines songs and stories with a unique element of play in an intuitive and durable unit for children. It is the perfect first audio system for kids. It's easy to use, engaging, and best of all, a lot of fun! 

Tonies were created with the goal of creating a way for kids to experience storytelling in a digital age that stimulates their imagination in ways that a screen can't. It allows kids (and parents) to feel good about their entertainment at home and to bring back imagination in its purest form. The Toniebox was officially launched in Europe in 2016 and in the U.S.A. in 2020 and has rapidly become one of the top toys. 

What Are Tonies?

Tonie characters are little figurines that each hold a specific audio collection. You can think of the hand-printed characters like physical playlists. There are two types of Tonies: Content Tonies, often referred to as just Tonies, and Creative-Tonies. Content Tonies come pre-loaded with 16–50 minutes of songs and stories; perfect for little attention spans. Disney Tonies average about a 22-minute runtime with musical content Tonies run 40–50 minutes. Creative-Tonies are originally blank figurines that are loaded with up to 90 minutes selected music or sound content.

What Are Some Tonie Characters?

There are a multitude of Tonie Characters with more being quickly made available. In addition, many of these characters are available from The Lion King, The Little Mermaid, Disney Princesses, Disney Classics, Cars, Beauty and the Beast, and Toy Story (and many others). This allows for TonieBox kits to be themed. Some of the many available Tonie characters, character groups, interests, and categories include:

  • The Incredibles
  • The Jungle Book
  • The Lion King
  • Pocahontas
  • Winnie the Pooh
  • Cinderella
  • Toy Story
  • Frozen (Elsa, Anna, Olaf)
  • Paw Patrol
  • Monsters, Inc.
  • Finding Nemo
  • The Tigger Movie
  • Peppa Pig
  • Games
  • Books
  • Animals and Insects
  • Halloween, Christmas, and Easter
  • S.T.E.A.M. 

How Long Does A Toniebox Stay Charged?

When fully charged, the Toniebox will last for around seven hours of active playtime. If your child isn't done with story time when the box gives you its low-battery tone, just set it on its charging station and keep playing!

What Age Range Is This Product Designed For?

Designed just for kids ages three and up, the Toniebox is a great companion for independent play. Younger children can also enjoy the Toniebox experience with proper adult supervision. The controls are designed with little listeners (and little hands) in mind, so kids can easily adjust volume, fast forward, rewind, and change stories all on their own. 

How Does The Toniebox Work?

Your new favorite storytime companion is a screen-free speaker that comes to life when paired with a Tonie character. Little listeners can change audio at any time—simply by placing a new Tonie on top. 

  • Add a Tonie to the top of the box—starts playing instantly 
  • Adjust the volume using the Toniebox ears
    • Simple to use and perfect for small hands
  • Change tracks with a simple bump
    • Durable even for rough play
  • Change stories anytime 
    • Hundreds of Tonies characters to choose from

How Do You Travel With A Toniebox?

The Toniebox is a great option for traveling with children. It is lightweight and easy to carry, and it has a long battery life. With the BPL-provided carrying case and headphones (not provided by BPL), parents can find the perfect solution for your family's needs. Whether you are taking a long road trip or just going on a short flight, the Toniebox is a great, screen-free way to keep your kids entertained while traveling. 

The BPL Tonies are provided as a kit. The kit includes the TonieBox, various Tonie characters (per theme), and a pamphlet detailing the contents of the kit and how to use it. A carrying case and charge cable are also included.

Parents must complete a Tonies lending agreement before checkout. 

You can view detailed reviews of TonieBoxes via these QR codes:

Tonies will be available at various Birmingham Public Library locations starting with the Avondale Regional Public Branch Library (available now). Please check with your local BPL branch for more information and share your interest in having TonieBoxes at your local library. 

By Caleb West | Director of Collection Management, Central Library

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