Promoting school libraries and schools library services: problems and partnerships

Literuture Matters was a two-year, national programme in England designed to promote partnerships between schools library services and initial teacher training institutions. Its aim was to raise awareness of the role of the schools library service in promoting children’s books and reading for pleasure. There were positive effects, in the short term, on student teachers, teacher educators and library staff. Potentially sustainable partnerships were developed, but structures and funding are needed to ensure a long term impact over new teachers’ careers.Keywordsschool librariesreading for enjoymentinitial teacher educationpartnerships