Raring2go! EDUCATION Raring2go! EDUCATION Every Child Deserves a Library: Bringing Books to Every Primary School Reading opens doors. From fairy tales to adventure stories, books spark imagination, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Yet across England, thousands of primary school children attend schools without a permanent library, limiting their access to the books and reading spaces that can make all the difference. WHY LIBRARIES MATTER Studies show that children with regular access to books and a quiet space to read perform better academically and develop stronger language skills. Libraries encourage independent learning, foster creativity, and provide a safe, welcoming environment where children can explore new worlds at their own pace. Currently, over 1,700 primary schools in England lack a permanent library. The gap is especially pronounced in disadvantaged areas, where families may have limited access to books at home. Without access to a school library, many children miss out on early exposure to reading habits that can shape their education and future. A NATIONAL PUSH FOR CHANGE To address this, the government has pledged £10 million to ensure every primary school has a library. The initiative aims not only to provide shelves of books but also to create inviting spaces designed to inspire children to read and explore. Schools are being encouraged to involve pupils in choosing books and designing reading areas, making the library a space that truly reflects their interests and personalities. Libraries also support teachers, offering resources for lessons and helping to integrate reading into every subject. From literacy sessions to reading clubs, libraries can become hubs of learning, creativity, and collaboration within the school. PARENTS CAN HELP TOO Parents play a key role in fostering a love of reading at home. Reading aloud to children, visiting local libraries, and discussing stories together reinforce the skills and habits learned at school. Encouraging regular reading time—even just 15 minutes a day—can transform a child’s literacy journey. WHY IT MATTERS Ensuring that every primary school has a library is about more than books on shelves—it’s about opportunity. Every child deserves access to reading spaces, stories that spark their imagination, and the chance to develop essential literacy skills. A library in every school means every child has the tools to succeed, explore, and dream big. TOP 5 TIPS TO ENCOURAGE READING AT HOME 1. Set aside daily reading time – Even 10–15 minutes makes a difference. 2. Visit your local library – Let children choose books that interest them. 3. Read together – Take turns reading aloud to make it fun and interactive. 4. Create a cosy reading space – A quiet corner can make reading feel special. 5. Talk about stories – Ask questions about characters and plots to encourage comprehension. 100 YEARS OF... 6 FEB 2026 JUNIOR SCHOOL OPEN MORNING AN OPEN MORNING JOIN US FOR keeping their curiosity alive CO-ED | 3 TO 18 | FARNHAM, SURREY A DAY & BOARDING SCHOOL 26 raring2go.co.uk 27
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