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This September, we were delighted to welcome our new Librarian, Helen Carter.
The library is at the heart of school life. It's a place where students can learn, study, discover new interests as well as being a place students can connect with others and create a sense of community.
We’re excited to see how Helen will bring her vision to the library and continue to develop this important space for our students. We asked Helen a few questions about the role the library plays and what she hopes to bring to the space.
Tell us a little bit about your background
As a sixth form student I had a Saturday job in a local, busy bookshop. I enjoyed working with books and helping customers to find what they wanted. At university I studied English and Education to become a primary school teacher, which I did for several years. I began working at Mary Hare School in 2023, as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant (HLTA) so I know the pupils here well and have a good knowledge of the curriculum. I’ve been the primary school librarian for the past two years.
My daughter was born with hearing loss and wore hearing aids when she was young. When she was little, we spent a lot of time at our local library. Books considerably helped her speech and language development and also made a significant impact on her academic success.
Being a school librarian is the perfect job for me. I enjoy helping the pupils find books they really enjoy. Reading is a life skill, and it’s a privilege to be involved in their reading journeys.
What role do you think a school library should play in pupils' education and development?
A library is a vital part of pupil’s education and development. Fostering a love of reading for children in the early years and supporting them throughout helps with learning, language, vocabulary, concentration, sense of empathy and positive mental well-being. Research has shown that children being able to read well have better future outcomes. The library should also support the needs of the curriculum and be an integral part of the wider school community.
How would you like to inspire a love of reading among pupils?
I like to get to know the pupils and find out what they are interested in. Guiding the children to find the right book to suit their interests is important, whilst giving them the choice in what they read. Reading for pleasure will build a lifelong love of reading which will stay with them long after they leave school.
I value the chats I have with the pupils about what they are reading and the sense of sharing something together. It builds a connection – building the social side of reading is important too.
How would you like pupils and staff to feel when they walk into the library?
I want pupils to feel a sense of belonging, when they come into the library. To be welcomed, valued, safe and included. I want the library to be a place for those who just want to sit quietly on a beanbag to read and relax, play a game with a friend, or find a calm space to study for their A Levels. I want the library to sometimes be calm and peaceful, but also buzzing and full of book chatter. I also want the library to support the curriculum and to ensure it's a good place to learn and study.
I want the library to be a place for everyone – that’s a big challenge!
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading People like Stars, one of this year’s Bookbuzz books, written by Patrice Lawrence, who is the recently appointed Children’s Laureate. I like to read books we have in the library, so I can recommend them to pupils and talk to them about what they’ve read.
What is your overall vision for the library over the next few years?
‘Building a community of readers’ is my vision. I intend to do this by creating a welcoming, accessible and inclusive environment at the heart of the school. For pupils to discover the joy of reading and are supported in their learning. To be a vibrant hub for creativity and enrichment . That’s enough to keep me busy!
Upcoming events
We have several events throughout the year for parents, pupils and professionals. We know how important it is for you to see our school in action, to meet pupils and staff and to enjoy our hospitality.
Keep exploring
Take a look at what else we’ve been up at Mary Hare School
