Top tips for an effective library

·         The library should be well equipped with IT to enable a combined approach to teaching information skills

·         The library should have inspirational zones with various areas created within it, a quiet reading space, tables and chairs for research, floor space for a storytime.

·         Keep the library as a library, not as storage space or a group work space.

·         The library should be accessible to all throughout the day or at least timetabled for all to visit and use at least once a week

·         Make the library welcoming, with rugs, cushions, soft seating and warm atmosphere

·         Allow time for browsing when pupils come into the library – do not rush them

·         Create a school culture in that the pupils have respect for books and encourages reading

·         Make sure all school staff have knowledge of how the library works so that they can support pupils when they choose books and encourage reading for pleasure

·         There should be a budget for the library, so that there is a rolling programme for purchasing stock, so there are finances to provide a wide range of resources

·         Purchase and use a computerised library management system for pupils to issue their books with. This can also be used to track pupils reading, to promote on-line searching by use of keywords and keep track to the stock purchased for the library

·         Create library helpers to keep the library tidy and to help other pupils choose a book to read

·         Run interactive activities in the library, with quizzes, competitions, book weeks and more so that every pupil can be involved