School library will be a place where dreams can take root thanks to makeover

Young readers at South Molton Community Primary School finally have a proper school library to call their own after an impressive makeover project during the summer.

From an outdated and rather clinical room, the library has been transformed into a welcoming space to reflect the eco-school values, with an incredible tree mural taking centre stage and the woodland theme continuing throughout.

The refurbishment took place during the summer break, led by the school PTA and its chair Kirsty Penno alongside teacher and library and literacy lead Emily Gladman, with support from other parents, staff, generous local suppliers and some of the children gave up parts of their holidays to assist.

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The new look library was officially opened on Friday (October 10) and fittingly with an ivy vine across the door in place of a ribbon.

Above: The ivy vine ‘ribbon is cut to mark the official opening of the new library. Credit: Viral PR

PTA chair Kirsty said: “The existing space was tired and cold and wasn’t inspiring like a library should be. We wanted to create a space that felt inviting and cosy but one that also was inspiring and created a love for reading.

“We fundraised hard last year with events to raise money and received a donation from the South Molton Masonic Lodge.  

“Once the school had shut down a small team of us came in for whole days, evenings, weekends and odd hours here and there. The children of parents that helped were often brought along as it was the holidays and they also helped carry books and shift things.”

The walls were stripped and repainted in forest colours, with South Molton Jewson branch manager Rob Cann donating more than £200 in paint, paint supplies and fake grass.

Parent Tabbi Lang offered to paint a tree mural complete with woodland creatures, covering and entire wall and stretching across the ceiling, with sprigs of foliage added to bring it to life.

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Teacher Emily Gladman said all those who gave up their time had been ‘nothing short of inspiring’ and thanked Kirsty for making the vision a reality.

She added: “This library is more than just shelves and books. It's the place where stories come alive, where questions find answers and where every child can discover the joy of reading.

“It will be a hub of creativity, collaboration and quiet reflection. A place where minds can wander and dreams can take root.”

Headteacher Tom Parkin said the library reflected the school’s values of sustainability in nature and said: “A year of hard work, fund raising and donations from various people, have meant that we've now got a library that we can be really proud of, with a great selection of books.

“It’s something that can be the heart of our school to really inspire children to have a love of reading and enjoy reading whenever they can.”