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8 must-haves for your primary school library
8 must-haves for your primary school library
As many of you know, this year is the National Year of Reading, a campaign that is designed to help more people rediscover the joy of reading and make it part of their everyday life.
In support of this, one of our aims at BookSpace is to share as much free advice and practical guidance as possible with primary schools across the UK.
Drawing on the experience of our specialist library designers, who work with hundreds of primary schools each year, we’ve put together a list of 8 must-have features that help create successful, inspiring school libraries children will love spending time in.
1. A diverse collection of reading material
At the heart of every successful primary school library is a collection that offers something for every child. A wide variety of genres, formats, and topics ensures pupils of all ages and abilities can find material that captures their interest and is suitable for their reading level.
From picture books and early readers to chapter books, non-fiction, poetry, and graphic novels, a well-rounded library supports both the curriculum and the joy of reading.
By giving children access to different voices, cultures, and ideas, you not only nurture essential literacy skills but also spark curiosity and open the door to a lifelong love of reading.
Consider including:
- Picture books for younger readers
- Early readers and chapter books
- Graphic novels and comics
- Newspapers and magazines
- Non-fiction texts that appeal to curious minds
- Books featuring characters from different backgrounds, abilities, and family set-ups
- Electronic reading devices and audio books
2. Face-out book display
Unlike older students, many younger children struggle to read book spines or confidently browse alphabetically.
That’s why face-out display is vital in primary school libraries – showcasing covers is proven to make it easier for children to browse and choose books independently.
Face-out displays also provide opportunities to highlight a broader selection of books, create themed selections, promote lesser-known stories and encourage children to expand their reading choices.
For more ways to display books face-out, check out some of these best-selling display solutions for primary schools designed specifically with younger readers in mind.
3. Cosy and inviting reading areas
A primary school library should feel inviting. Comfortable seating encourages children to linger, get cosy, and immerse themselves in a book.
Soft chairs, beanbags, cushions, or even floor seating can transform a library into a welcoming space where children feel free to relax and explore stories at their own pace.
4. Clear library signage
Even the most welcoming school library can be intimidating if children struggle to navigate it. Clear signage helps young readers find what they need quickly and with ease.
Labels for sections like fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or topic-specific areas make the space easier to use and encourage autonomy.
Colour-coded systems or simple icons can also help younger children or those with special educational needs. Make sure your library signage is easy to change—so if you move things around or refresh your layout, the signs can be updated easily.
5. Shared reading space
Storytelling remains an essential part of the reading experience in primary schools. Having a designated area for this can make reading more interactive and help bring stories to life.
Whether it’s a rug with a storytelling chair, a mini amphitheatre-style set-up, or a simple open floor area, these spaces make it easier to run book-led activities like storytime, read aloud sessions, or book clubs.
If you’re interested in setting up a primary school book club, you can download our free resource here to help get you started.
“Everybody loves a good story. Even small children who have difficulty focusing in class will sit with rapt attention in the presence of a good storyteller.”
Reading Framework, DfE
6. Inclusive and accessible for all ages and learners
Primary school libraries face the challenge of catering to a wide range of ages and developmental stages. A successful library design takes this into account, offering spaces and resources that are both age-appropriate and accessible to all.
Younger children benefit from low shelves, colourful displays, and picture books, while older pupils may prefer quiet zones, chapter books, and more complex non-fiction.
Accessibility is just as important. Shelving should be child-friendly and within reach, while calm corners with minimal distractions can provide a haven for neurodivergent children or those who are easily overwhelmed.
You might also want to consider:
- Dual-language books for EAL learners
- Tactile and interactive elements to support sensory development
- Audiobooks and electronic reading devices
- Plenty of face-out displays for visual engagement
7. Opportunities for ‘book talk’
Peer recommendation and book talk play a significant part in generating a buzz around reading.
A truly effective primary school library is a space where children can share their reading experiences, make recommendations to their classmates and discuss stories in a relaxed environment.
Encouraging young learners to talk about what they’re reading helps build confidence, develops communication skills and can motivate reluctant readers to pick up a book.
This could include:
- A noticeboard or on-shelf units to display book reviews and recommendations
- Showcasing “Just returned”, “New arrivals”, “Teacher’s favourites”
- Seating areas where small groups can discuss what they’re reading
- Encouraging peer-to-peer book suggestions to broaden reading horizons
For ideas on how to encourage book talk, take a look at our Read-and-Share range.
8. A school librarian or reading champion
While not every primary school has a dedicated librarian, having someone to champion the library makes a big difference. This could be a teaching assistant, literacy coordinator, English lead, or volunteer – anyone with a passion for books and the time to maintain the space.
Their role could include:
- Organising new book displays
- Running book clubs or reading challenges
- Helping pupils choose books
- Keeping the space tidy and welcoming
We hope you find this blog useful. For more hints and tips designing a primary school library, take a look at this guide.
Looking to transform your school library?
At BookSpace, we’re experts in creating imaginative library spaces that foster a love of reading.
Whether you’re building a brand-new school library or refreshing an old one, our free school library design service will help you plan a library space that works for your school and budget.
Call us on 0121 246 2777 or find out more here
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