Key Points:
- The Primary School Library Program will provide libraries to every primary school in England, targeting 1,700 schools without one.
- Each library will feature books, digital resources, and spaces for reading, creativity, and interactive learning.
- The initiative aims to boost literacy, reduce educational disparities, and support teacher training across the country.
A major initiative will provide a Primary School Library Program in England, targeting 1,700 schools that currently lack one. The program aims to give children access to books, literacy resources, and cultural opportunities during their formative years. Funding for the scheme comes from £132.5 million in dormant assets, which will be unlocked to support early learning initiatives nationwide.
Expanding Access to Literacy and Learning Through the Primary School Library Program
Currently, one in seven primary schools in the UK does not have a library, rising to one in four in disadvantaged areas, according to the National Literacy Trust. The new initiative will ensure that thousands of children can access books and reading programs, fostering literacy from an early age.
Children’s authors and illustrators have praised the program. Illustrator Axel Scheffler, known for The Gruffalo, said, “A school library is more than just a room full of books. It’s a place where imaginations grow, confidence builds, and a lifelong love of reading takes root.” Author Cressida Cowell highlighted the potential to inspire creativity and learning.
Each library will feature a curated selection of books for different reading levels, alongside spaces for group activities, reading, and interactive learning. Digital resources, including e-books and online platforms, will complement physical books, helping children develop both literacy and digital skills through Primary School Library Program. Teachers and librarians will receive guidance and training to integrate library resources effectively into lessons and extracurricular programs.
Early Learning, Community Impact, and Future Opportunities
Access to a Primary School Library Program has been linked to improved reading skills, higher academic achievement, and stronger cognitive development. By prioritizing schools without existing libraries, the program aims to reduce educational disparities, particularly in underprivileged areas.
School libraries also serve as community hubs, providing safe and stimulating environments for children. The initiative will include programs designed with authors, illustrators, and literacy organizations to enrich students’ experiences and strengthen community engagement.
Alongside the library rollout, schools will be encouraged to implement programs that connect reading with practical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Early exposure to literature is expected to foster lifelong learning habits, support creativity, and enhance overall academic performance.
The Primary School Library Program also emphasizes teacher training and engagement, ensuring that library resources are effectively used in classroom instruction. Professional development sessions will teach educators how to integrate reading materials, interactive tools, and digital platforms into lesson plans, increasing student engagement and literacy outcomes.
This initiative represents a significant investment in the future of education, providing opportunities for children to develop literacy skills, fostering creativity, and creating an environment where reading is a central part of daily school life. With libraries in every primary school, children across England will have consistent access to resources that support both educational and personal development, helping to bridge the gap for students in underserved communities.