School library service

We aim to encourage the development of a love of books and reading. Young children enjoy sharing stories. They also like exploring interactive books.

The books encourage them to be curious about the world. Age-appropriate books in the classroom will help children learn. They will also add variety to keep your resource selection fresh and inviting.

What's in our project loan box

• We have picture books, board books, and non-fiction books. You can choose any topic for the non-fiction books.
• Books to support language development. These books have repetition, rhyme, and rhythm.
• Books which are interactive. These books help children learn using different senses.
• Books with 28 languages. They include Gujarati, Polish, and Romanian.

What is included in the service?

This service aims to help children. It is for those in Nurseries or Playgroups. It includes project loans. It also includes advice and other items, as detailed below.

• Teachers may request one set of books to meet the needs of the children in their class. They can request one project collection for their class each term. They can choose from a collection of over 50,000 titles. Each collection will have about 30 attractive and up-to-date picture books. They will include board books, interactive books, and non-fiction. The books will be worth up to £400.  Cost of delivery and collection is included.
• A qualified librarian to offer guidance. They will help set up and manage library collections. They can help organise the books in the library. They can also suggest creative ways to use them in the classroom. They may also help with events. These events feature authors and illustrators.
• Support and practical help from the HSLS team. This includes tasks such as classifying books. It also involves labelling and updating records in library systems.
• Storytelling sessions
• A discount scheme and personal shopper service. Teachers/librarians can make use of our discount scheme using their own budgets. This scheme lets schools stretch limited budgets. Books come shelf-ready with labels and sleeves which help them last. We offer a personal shopper service and can order books on your behalf. We have access to specialist suppliers. We also have access to bibliographic databases.
• An exhibition collection of over 11,000 recommended books for teachers to inspect before sale. The staff will give you advice during your visit. They will also help you order books.
• CPD. This includes meetings with library co-ordinators. It also includes training courses.
• Subscription to 'Pen&Inc magazine.' This contains information on inclusive children’s books.
• Newsletter and discounts on publications.

Performance Standards

• Our helpdesk is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. It is available during the school term and holidays. You can use the email facility outside these hours.
• All staff are qualified. Qualifications are recognised by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals.
• Book orders arrive within three weeks outside school holidays. We can organise faster deliveries for you.
• We will send project loans to your school as soon as possible. We will do this after receiving your request.

What is the School's responsibility?

• Schools are responsible for the care of books. They are also responsible for their return.

What is the contract period?

The contract will run for one year from 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025. For more information see our support services for education pages. You will also find information about service fees.