School library service

Description of Service

This is a service devised to support children in Nurseries or Playgroups, and includes project loans, advisory services and other items as detailed below.

The School Library Service comprises:

• Project Loan Service
  Teachers may request one collection of books to meet the particular needs of the children in their class each term from a collection of over 50,000 titles.  Each collection will consist of approximately 30 attractive and up-to-date picture books, board books, interactive books and non-fiction, worth up to £400.  Cost of delivery and collection is included.
• A qualified librarian who can offer guidance setting up and managing library collections. They can assist with organising the books in the library and also suggest creative ways to use them in the classroom. They may also help with events featuring authors and illustrators.
• Support and practical assistance from the HSLS team with tasks such as classifying books, labelling, repair or updating records on library management systems
• Storytelling sessions
• Discounted Purchase Scheme and Personal Shopper Service.
  A purchase scheme is available or teachers/librarians can make use of our discounted purchase scheme using their own budgets.  This scheme enables schools to make limited budgets stretch further.  All books are supplied ready for the shelf with labels, jackets or sleeves to extend their durability.  We offer a personal shopper service and can order books on your behalf.  We have access to specialist suppliers and bibliographic databases.
• Exhibition Collection of over 11,000 recommended and in print children’s books for teachers to inspect prior to purchase.  Advice from School Library Service staff during your visit and assistance with ordering books.
• CPD including Library Co-ordinators’ meetings and training courses
• Subscription to Pen&Inc magazine containing latest information on diverse and inclusive children’s books
• Newsletter and discounts on publications

Performance Standards

• Helpdesk:  Available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, during term-time and school holidays.  An email facility is available outside these hours.
• Professional staff have qualifications recognised by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals and are in membership of relevant professional organisations.
• Books ordered through the purchasing service are normally delivered within three weeks outside school holidays and we can organise urgent orders for you.
• Project loans will be delivered to your school as soon as possible following receipt of the request.

School's responsibility

• Schools are responsible for the care of books on loan to them and for their return when requested by the School Library Service.
• We welcome enquiries regarding our services; please contact us by calling 020 3714 7739 and speak to our experienced team.

Contract Period

The contract will run for one year from 1st April 2022 to 31st March 2023.

Charges for service

The charge is fully inclusive covering all aspects of the service and has not increased this year. 

• £3.30 per pupil (+ £0.66 VAT)
  (£8.07 per pupil including purchase scheme)
• Minimum number of 30 FTE pupil places required

Each teacher may request one project collection for their class each term.

For more information and to request a copy of the service level agreement please contact the Schools Library Service Manager - contact details at the end of this page.

Harrow School Library Service - supporting school libraries and staff through project loans, discounted purchase scheme and advisory services