…As mentioned in the email earlier in the week, the library is progressing well.

We have managed to audit the books we had, getting rid of anything that was not fit for purpose. Through the donations from the charity which you secured and the new books you supported us to buy, we have managed to get a much more appropriate selection of books for the children. These are now more up to date with current affairs and reflect the changing population of children in school. We have listened to the interests of the children and secured a number of graphic novels which are very popular. These are a great way to engage children in reading as they feel less overwhelmed by pages of texts, with images breaking up the stories.

Our next priority is to continue to develop the non-fiction selection we have on offer as well as the poetry section as many of these books are outdated/unengaging.

We are currently working to catalogue the books, at which points children will be able to scan and borrow books to support their love of reading for pleasure.

Within school at the moment, it is being used by staff to bring children along to look at books as a class/support learning in school.

Staff have already reported an excitement from the children about the new selection. We have particularly noticed this from the older children who once perhaps thought they were too cool for reading now, but have been re-engaged!!

We now need to use some of our in-school budget to buy some additional shelving to house additional books, as well as look to decorate the space around. The children have chosen a natural theme so we will be working to redecorate over time- buying rugs, cushions, plants and painting the walls.

We will also be looking to secure additional funds for non-fiction and poetry books.

Many thanks to you Ashleigh, for your continued support with our project and to the company. I know how passionately you all felt about supporting reading in deprived areas and we want to thank you as your donation is making a real difference to our children!!!!