Welcome!
Everyone has played with toys over the years. Many remember their childhood toys with nostalgia and may think that today’s toys are dramatically different. However, despite changing in some ways, many toys remain essentially the same at the core. We’re here to explore the different ways toys have evolved over time, and highlight the ways in which they have stayed the same.
The topic for our collection focuses on toys that involve dramatic or constructive play (building, imagining, acting), and how these toys have evolved or stayed the same throughout the years. For example, looking at Barbies, the dolls are now more inclusive regarding their looks (size, race, hair, etc.) and can come with wheelchairs and other items that children in real life use every day; however, even though Barbie has evolved over the years, the core use is still the same.
This online exhibition is ran by Jodi H., Rachel B., and Andrew G. of the Nostalgia City Library.
Check out our “Additional Information” section for our references, credits, and further readings!














