What makes a great primary school library? And what can schools do if they have no library space? Mary-Rose Grieve and Alison Tarrant from the Great School Libraries campaign offer ideas and advice
Image: Adobe Stock

A great school library is a vibrant space at the heart of the school that allows children to satisfy their curiosity, stimulate their creativity and become independent, inquiring young people. 

A well-resourced school library and well-trained school librarian or library staff can have a hugely positive impact, not only on children’s academic progress and attainment but on their mental health and wellbeing, as well as having a positive impact on the wider school community.

Despite this, many primary schools do not have a library – as many as 1 in 7 according to some research (Primary School Library Alliance, 2022). They are not statutory and are continually misunderstood and undervalued. With many parents buying fewer books due to the cost-of-living crisis and many children not given opportunities to visit a public library, we believe that access to a school library is more important than ever. 

Register now, read forever

Thank you for visiting Headteacher Update and reading some of our content for professionals in primary education. Register now for free to get unlimited access to all content.

What's included:

  • Unlimited access to news, best practice articles and podcasts

  • New content and e-bulletins delivered straight to your inbox every Monday

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here