Southgate school's new library launched by local author

As well as 2,000 books the room also has comfy seating areas, beanbags and reading nooks to help the children relax and get lost in a story

Local children’s author Jeanne Willis joins Walker Primary School pupils for the launch of the school's new library — Local children’s author Jeanne Willis joins Walker Primary School pupils for the launch of the school’s new library

Children at Walker Primary School in Southgate now have access to 2,000 books after the official opening of its new library.

Local children’s author Jeanne Willis, who wrote The Monster Bed and the Dr Xargle series, visited the school to cut the ribbon on the library as excited pupils got a first glimpse at the inspiring new space.

The library has been covered up for weeks so that it could be unveiled to the children as a surprise this month.

Surrounded by shelves of books for all ages, the room also has comfy seating areas, beanbags and reading nooks so that the children can relax and get lost in a story.

The library cost £18,000 to build and was funded by Friends of Walker, the school’s parent teacher association, after children asked for a reading space.

Headteacher Luke Renwick said: “Through our Pupil Voice initiative, our children told us that they wanted a space to be able to explore books and read quietly. Sadly, local libraries are closing and children in the area are losing this vital service. At Walker, we wanted to buck the trend and give our children access to a wide range of books because we know that this can encourage a lifelong love of reading.

“We spoke to Friends of Walker, who very generously agreed to fund the project, and work to convert an old classroom began earlier this year. We kept the new library under wraps and the children were thrilled to see it for the first time. Having Jeanne Willis come to meet our pupils and cut the ribbon made it even more special for them.”

This year is the National Year of Reading, the biggest campaign in a generation to help more people discover the joy of reading and make it part of their every day lives.

At Walker School, all children from reception age to year six will now be able to visit the library every week and choose a book to take home.

Luke adds: “We know that reading can spark imagination, boost confidence, broaden horizons and enhance learning. Our new library will be at the heart of our school and we can’t wait to see our pupils enjoy it for many years to come.”

Local news needs your support

We are proud that we were at the forefront of reporting on the recent local elections. We can’t do this without the support of our readers.

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

ACT NOW!

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.