Case Studies
Stewart Fleming Primary School
“BookSpace were not only on par, but stood out for us amongst the competitors as the solutions delivered seemed unique and creatively tailored for each school.”
Jacqui Mason-Ellis.
School Business Manager.
A new school library designed to offer much-needed flexibility.
Stewart Fleming Primary School in London is increasing to a 3-form entry school over the next few years. Although each class has its own reading corner, an extension to the main building gave the school the opportunity to create a dedicated library space for its pupils.
The challenge of designing a library in a growing primary school
To get the project underway BookSpace designer, Jonathan Turner, visited the school and met with Head Teacher Emma Pape and the School’s Business Team to see the space and discuss their requirements in detail. The initial meeting with the school, whether in person or virtual, is a vital part of BookSpace’s library design process. Years of working with primary schools has taught us that listening carefully to the needs of the staff and pupils is key to the design process. ‘One size fits all’ simply doesn’t work when designing libraries – all schools are different and each project requires a tailored solution to get the most out of the space.
“BookSpace were not only on par, but stood out for us amongst the competitors as the solutions delivered seemed unique and creatively tailored for each school/project” Jacqui Mason-Ellis, School Business Manager.
Following the meeting with the school’s team, Jonathan identified 3 key requirements for their new school library:
Flexibility
Stewart Fleming Primary needed their library to be flexible to adapt to the ever-changing needs of a growing school with increasing pupil numbers. Many schools we work with want library furniture that can be transformed or moved and our Flexible Library range is the perfect solution. Utilising this range, we were able to provide Stewart Fleming Primary with adjustable book shelving, free-standing and mobile bookcases, creating a fully functioning flexible library that is both practical and stylish.
Connectivity
As the school were working towards a whole school reading culture, they needed the library to help to connect children from all year groups with books and reading, and provide pupils with a safe, quiet space to sit and read independently.
The school wanted a bright colour scheme that wouldn’t overshadow the books, they wanted the books to take centre stage in order to put reading at its heart. We presented the school with a range of fabric and laminate swatches to consider and they chose a modern light oak for the bookcases alongside lime green shelves and pops of teal which helped to create a calm, softer feel for the space.
At the meeting, the BookSpace designer shared images and visuals which also allowed the school to pick out features they thought would appeal to their children. The mid-floor Reading Tree, Mobile Bookcases and the Reading Tent were firm favourites from the outset, providing safe and comfortable library seating. Integrated book displays also give teachers the opportunity to promote particular authors, titles and curriculum subjects.
Durability
The library would need to be able to withstand the day-to-day wear and tear of a busy primary school environment. Jonathan initially shared samples of the BookSpace laminate and fabric so the staff could see the quality themselves.
All of our products are manufactured in the UK using timber from renewable sources. All of our seating is covered with high grade foam and fabric which is wipe cleanable, urine proof, bleach-cleanable and fire retardant. We are so confident in the quality of our materials and workmanship that our BookSpace libraries come with a 5-year warranty.
After taking on board the school’s brief Jonathan worked on a range of designs which he sent to the school along with a detailed schedule of costs, including fitting.
“BookSpace managed to deliver a great proposal within our set budget; without trying to push our financial boundaries” Merle Busch, Finance Team.
Once we submitted the initial library designs to the school, the staff reviewed the plans and came back to add some additional Toadstool Seats and our new Storytelling Chair.
“The Storytelling Chair has been an instant success. At the end of the day every class has 15 minutes for Storytime to share books and their love of reading. We encourage teachers to use this time to bring the children together and get them engaged in storytelling. It’s been successful for all year groups – even the older children have commented that they’ve missed story time and now look forward to it.” Daniel Leggatt, Literacy Lead Teacher.
The results
The library was installed during February half-term, ready for the pupils to explore and experience their new space upon their return.
“Some of the older pupils have seen the journey from the start and understand how lucky they are to have a new library” says Daniel. “Having a safe place to read in a quiet calm space has definitely made a difference”
As well as needing to accommodate whole class visits, the library has also been opened up to a reading club where children can find a comfy spot, share their favourite books or just read for pleasure.
“A lot of children have commented that they’re enjoying using the new library and having a place to read. Especially under the Reading Tent where they can go into their own world with a book. It really does promote that love of reading that we want here.” Daniel Leggatt.
“It really does promote that love of reading that we want here.”
Daniel Leggatt.
Literacy Lead Teacher.
Library Design Service
At BookSpace we love helping to design reading spaces no matter how large or small. Our experienced team of designers, in-depth knowledge of primary schools and superb range of contemporary school library furniture combine to ensure that BookSpace is the ideal choice.
Whatever the size and shape of your space, whichever the year group taught, we can create your dream school library.
FREE, no obligation design service
Call 0121 246 2777