Libraries for Primaries with the National Literacy Trust

We’re proud to share that we have donated £40,000 to the National Literacy Trust (NLT) in support of their Libraries for Primaries initiative. A programme designed to bring inspiring, fully equipped libraries to primary schools that need them most.

This powerful initiative targets primary schools that currently lack access to well-stocked, engaging library spaces, particularly in areas of socio-economic disadvantage. With the support of the NLT, each school receives a full package designed to transform reading environments and embed a culture of reading for pleasure.

Reading for pleasure is closely linked to academic success, mental wellbeing, empathy, and social development. Yet, access to books and inviting reading spaces remains unequal. Alarming statistics show:

• 1 in 10 children in the UK do not own a single book
• Among disadvantaged children, that number rises to 1 in 8
• 1 in 7 state primary schools in England have no library at all
• In disadvantaged areas, it's 1 in 4

The ongoing Cost of Living Crisis continues to widen the attainment gap between children from less affluent backgrounds and their peers. School libraries can play a vital role in addressing this - offering safe, inclusive environments that provide free access to books and nurture a love of learning.

What Our Donation Will Deliver

Our contribution will fund the delivery of Libraries for Primaries in four UK locations: Bristol, London, Manchester, and Cambridge. In each city, one primary school facing significant challenges will benefit from:

• 500 high-quality, diverse books – including audiobooks
• Library furniture – to create a warm and inviting reading space
• Audio player and story cards – to support auditory learners
• Online training and literacy support – for teachers and librarians
• An inspiring author visit – to spark students’ imagination
• National Literacy Trust membership – for access to literacy resources
• Tailored guidance – from a dedicated NLT project manager
• Ongoing engagement – via NLT’s alumni network and regional support

A National Commitment to Primary School Libraries

We’re delighted to share a major milestone for the Libraries for Primaries campaign. At the Labour Party Conference, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that every state primary school in England will have a library by the end of this Parliament (2029).

This commitment builds on the incredible work of the campaign co-founded by the National Literacy Trust and Penguin Books, which has already transformed libraries in 1,500 schools, reaching nearly half a million children. It’s a powerful step forward in addressing the lack of access to books and reading spaces, especially in disadvantaged communities. With this pledge, reading for pleasure takes centre stage in our national culture, ahead of the National Year of Reading in 2026.

Our Ongoing Commitment

This initiative is one part of our broader commitment to promoting education, equity, and wellbeing in the communities we serve. By working with the National Literacy Trust, we’re investing in the next generation, giving more children the chance to fall in love with books and realise their full potential.

We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to read, learn, and dream big. With Libraries for Primaries, we’re helping make that vision a reality.