School librarians are honoured

[John Dean]

As one of the Crime Writers’ Association’s Libraries Champions, I am delighted to share the news that Ros Harding from The King's School Chester has been named School Librarian of the Year 2019 by the School Library Association.

Head Librarian and Archivist at The King's School Chester (an independent selective school for ages 3-18), Ros contributes in many ways to the life of the school and to the wellbeing of its students and staff.  She was described variously as  "caring, for people but also for the library itself", "inspiring curiosity" and a "tour de force".

As well as establishing a School Book Award, Ros is an ambassador of research skills and ensures all aspects of the school to have a place within the library.

Two other librarians were shortlisted for the Award: Helen Cleaves (Librarian/Learning Resources Manager at Kingston Grammar School) and Chantal Kelleher (Learning Resource Centre Manager at Herne Bay High School).

Alison Tarrant, Chief Executive of the School Library Association, said: "The Honour List this year are fantastic examples of the impact that effective school libraries can have, as shown by the affection and respect with which pupils and teaching staff talk about them. All three have all had a positive influence on the learning that goes on within their schools, both formally and informally.”

I heartily echo those comments – school libraries and their librarians play such an important role in encouraging our young people to read, particularly those whose families cannot afford to buy many books.

You can find out more at

https://www.sla.org.uk/blog.php