Library opening marks a new chapter for Derbyshire Dales school

Children and staff dressed up for World Book Day at Darley Churchtown Primary School

Jessica Reed, dressed as a character from children’s book The Very Hungry Caterpillar and winner of the Matlock school’s best costume competition, was given the honour of cutting the ribbon.

The opening marked the culmination of months of fundraising and building work. The new library was made possible through a match-funding scheme with Derbyshire County Council, who doubled the amount of money that the school was able to commit to the project.

Headteacher Janine Stillwell said: “Together with a generous donation from the Alfred Clay Trust and a huge effort by the school’s PTA, the children are now able to enjoy selecting and reading books from the library.”

An online library management system and barcode scanner helps the children to check books in and out, and search for their next exciting read.

Junior librarians have been trained to replace books and keep the shelves tidy.

“The library is now a thriving and exciting space at the centre of the school,” added Mrs Stillwell.