School libraries and librarians

That this House recognises the importance of encouraging children to enjoy books from an early age and of developing a culture of reading for pleasure in schools; notes that evidence suggests that school libraries lead to better literacy and educational outcomes, higher attainment, improved wellbeing and contribute to the delivery of a well-rounded education; further notes that school libraries can play a part in improving outcomes for children with special educational needs; is concerned that, according to the 2023 report by the Great School Libraries campaign, 14% of primary schools in the UK do not have a library, while even where provision exists, most primary schools use their library space for other purposes; is further concerned that the same report revealed the number of UK secondary schools with a library on site has dropped by 10% since 2019; acknowledges that there is significant variation across the UK in terms of school library provision and that this is leading to restricted reading choices for children; believes that urgent work must be done across the UK to enable school leaders to develop school libraries so that pupils can take advantage of the benefits they can deliver in relation to learning, reading, writing, wellbeing and happiness; and further believes that every school in the UK should have a library with access to a professional librarian, library staff or a schools library service.