NewsWPLG Local 10October 24, 2026Miami-Dade County
British Embassy confirms Winnie-the-Pooh and toys will remain at the New York Public Library
Photo: WPLG Local 10
The British Embassy in Washington confirmed that the original Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals will remain at the New York Public Library, dismissing rumors of a campaign to return the toys to the United Kingdom. The announcement follows media reports regarding a push to bring the 100-year-old bear back to Britain as the fictional character reaches its centenary.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
The decision keeps the historic collection of children's literary artifacts accessible to the public at no cost in New York City rather than transferring them abroad.
Key Facts
- The British Embassy stated that Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends will remain at the New York Public Library.
- A.A. Milne bought the original teddy bear for his son Christopher Robin in 1921 from Harrods department store in London.
- Publisher Dutton Children’s Books donated the dolls to the New York Public Library in 1987 following a national tour.
- The library is celebrating the character's anniversary by offering free exhibit access and giving away 3,000 copies of the books.
- Queen Camilla visited the library and added a new Roo doll to the collection, which already includes Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and Kanga.
- In the late 1990s, British lawmaker Gwyneth Dunwoody previously questioned the government about arranging for the collection's return.
Who's Mentioned
PersonChristopher Robin“Original owner of the toys”OrganizationHarrods“Department store where Pooh was purchased in London”otherWinnie-the-Pooh“Stuffed animal collection and literary character”PersonBrad Hoylman-Sigal“Manhattan Borough President”PersonQueen Camilla“Visited the library and delivered a new Roo doll”OrganizationNew York Public Library“Current home of the Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals”PersonNita Lowey“Then U.S. Representative who introduced a resolution opposing removal”PersonGyles Brandreth“Author and friend of the late Christopher Robin Milne”OrganizationWashington Post“Reported on the push to bring the teddy bear back to Britain”PersonA.A. Milne“English author and father of Christopher Robin”PersonGwyneth Dunwoody“Then Labour Party lawmaker who previously asked about returning the collection”OrganizationBritish Embassy“Dispelled rumors about returning the collection to the UK”PersonMelissa Grace“Director of communications at the library”OrganizationDutton Children’s Books“Publisher that donated the toys to the library in 1987”