Bourne Grammar School opens new library to boost student literacy
After nine years without a library, students can now explore diverse literary offerings
Bourne Grammar School has officially opened its new library, a space dedicated to enhancing student literacy and encouraging a love for reading after nearly a decade without one.
The library was opened by performance poet and musician Karl Nova on Friday and aims to provide students with a place where they can find diverse literary voices and inclusivity within reading materials.
Literacy Coordinator David Williamson-Ward emphasised the significance of the library's diverse book selection: "You can find books that help you with your own voice. They help you find a place and understand your place in the world."
The library will be actively integrated into English lessons, with pupils receiving library cards and guidance on using the library system.
Mr Williamson-Ward highlighted the importance of the library in promoting reading over screen time and creating a space for social reading: "It’s hopefully a space that they’ll enjoy. It’s not one of these libraries where it’s going to be dead silence, it’s going to be a space where social reading is going to be important."
Assistant headteacher Abby Allen explained that the lack of library facilities since 2017 was due to the school's need to expand and provide additional classrooms to accommodate more students.
Through school budgets and a recent government grant of £1,400 dedicated to reading for pleasure, the library’s book collection will be further enhanced.
Originally an eating space for students, the new library will also serve as a place for study, homework, workshops, and other learning activities.
Karl Nova praised the library initiative, saying, “I am very happy that this school has opened the library. I think it’s so important. I love the size and I can see the vision."
The library's opening marks a new chapter for Bourne Grammar School, fostering an environment where students can discover the joy of reading and gain fresh perspectives through literature.