Libraries are significant in schools for a number of reasons such as to support research and information literacy, contribute to learning and teaching, engaging student with the written word and cultivating a love of reading. But just as importantly libraries, particularly in schools, provide that safe space for patrons where they will always be welcome.

Library staff were recently surveyed by Softlink, a school library software vendor, to glean their perspective on their roles. In answer to the question “What is the best thing about working in a school library?” they received responses like:

"Building communities, creating connections and finding THE book that transforms a reluctant reader."

"Fostering a love of reading with the students. I always love to hear that a student has enjoyed a book that I have recommended, or they have found in our libraries."

These fabulous responses are evidence that there is an abundance of appreciation and that working in a library environment is self-actualising.

Following last week’s article from the library, we can continue with even more author comments on libraries, books and reading.

“Google can bring you back 100,000 answers, a librarian can bring you back the right one.” — Neil Gaiman

“Fairy tales are more than true: not because they tell us that dragons exist, but because they tell us that dragons can be beaten.” — Neil Gaiman in Coraline

“You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me.” — C.S. Lewis

“Libraries were the center of my life and are so precious to me,” — Ray Bradbury

“I graduated from the library when I was 28 years old. That library educated me, not the college." — Ray Bradbury

“The very existence of libraries affords the best evidence that we may yet have hope for the future of man.” — T.S. Eliot

"Libraries store the energy that fuels the imagination. They open up windows to the world and inspire us to explore and achieve and contribute to improving our quality of life. Libraries change lives for the better." —Sidney Sheldon

“To close a library is a crime.” – Michael Morpurgo

 Keep reading!