Our library is the heart of learning at Windlesham House, a warm and welcoming space where pupils discover the joy of reading, develop research skills and explore new worlds through books. We believe that a love of reading is fundamental to academic success and lifelong learning.
The Windlesham House library is a bright, inviting space stocked with thousands of carefully selected books catering for all ages, interests and reading abilities. From picture books for our youngest readers to challenging fiction and non-fiction for our older pupils, we have something for everyone.
Our diverse collection includes:
We regularly update our collection, purchasing new releases and responding to pupil requests. Staff recommendations and book reviews help guide purchasing decisions, ensuring our library reflects current interests and curriculum needs.
The library provides different areas for different purposes:
Alongside our physical collection, pupils have access to digital resources including
Reading for pleasure is proven to improve not just literacy but also general knowledge, vocabulary, empathy and wellbeing. We actively promote reading across the school through various initiatives.
All pupils have scheduled library time each week to browse, borrow books and read. These sessions are relaxed and enjoyable, allowing children to explore freely and develop their reading preferences.
We run reading challenges throughout the year, encouraging pupils to try different genres, authors, and types of books. Achievements are celebrated with certificates, prizes, and recognition in assemblies.
Our annual Literary Week and World Book Day includes author visits, talks, workshops, book character dress-up days, storytelling sessions. These events generate excitement about reading and bring books to life.
We regularly host visiting authors who share their writing process, read from their books and inspire pupils to become writers themselves. These encounters make a lasting impression on young readers.
Staff and pupils share book recommendations through displays, newsletters, and assemblies. Book clubs for different age groups provide opportunities to discuss books, share opinions, and discover new favorites.
Older pupils read with younger children, modeling good reading habits and fostering a love of stories. This cross-age mentoring benefits both buddy readers and listeners.
Pupils learn how to
These skills are taught progressively through library lessons and integrated into subject teaching, preparing pupils for senior school and beyond.
The library supports all curriculum subjects by
The library is a space where pupils can work independently or in small groups on projects, homework and personal interests. This develops self-directed learning skills and research independence.
We understand that not all children find reading easy or enjoyable initially. Our library caters for all abilities and interests
High-interest, low-reading-age books
Engaging stories with age-appropriate content but simpler vocabulary and sentence structures
Graphic novels and illustrated books
Visual storytelling that appeals to reluctant readers
Non-fiction on special interests
Many reluctant readers engage more with factual books about topics they are passionate about
Short books and magazines
Less daunting for struggling readers
Library staff work with learning enrichment teachers to recommend appropriate books and support struggling readers in finding books they will enjoy.
Pupils can typically borrow one or two books at a time depending on their age, for up to two weeks. Books can be renewed if needed. We encourage regular borrowing and reading both at school and at home.
Absolutely. We welcome parental involvement in children’s reading. Parents can visit the library during school tours, make suggestions for book purchases and discuss their child’s reading with staff. We send reading recommendations home and encourage families to read together.
We ask that lost or damaged books be paid for so we can replace them. However, we understand accidents happen and handle these situations sensitively. The important thing is that children feel comfortable using the library and are not afraid to borrow books.
Book selection considers curriculum needs, pupil interests and requests, staff recommendations, award-winning titles, diverse representation and reviews from trusted sources. We aim for a balanced collection reflecting different genres, perspectives and reading levels. Pupils often request specific books which we try to accommodate.
