School library service

Reading clubs

We aim to provide resources to run enjoyable reading clubs. Reading clubs can help children learn about authors and different genres. It can also help develop critical skills and explore new interests.

What are the charges?

There is one charge per full-time pupil place. It covers all aspects of this service. The club costs 36p per week per child. A group of up to 15 children can take part in the Harrow Junior Book Award.

The award lets teachers or librarians borrow one project collection. They can borrow a collection once each term. Each collection has 30 fiction, poetry, or non-fiction books. They are worth about £400 each collection.

These books are available for loan. They will help schools offer many reading activities. You can choose from a list of collections based on different genres or themes.

An experienced librarian will help you start your reading club. They'll also provide resources for your theme, where available.

What is included in the service?

This service is provided for a cost per FTE pupil place for no less than 15 pupils. The cost is an all-inclusive charge covering:

• Harrow Junior Book Award. Schools will receive a set of one of each of the shortlisted books. They will also get an invitation for at least six children to attend the award ceremony with a guest author.
• Teachers may request one set of books to meet the needs of the children in their class. They can request one project collection for their class each term. They can choose from a collection of over 50,000 titles. Each collection will have about 30 attractive and up-to-date picture books. They will include board books, interactive books, and non-fiction. The books will be worth up to £400.  Cost of delivery and collection is included.
• A qualified librarian to offer guidance. They will help set up and manage library collections. They can help organise the books in the library. They can also suggest creative ways to use them in the classroom. They may also help with events. These events feature authors and illustrators.
• Support and practical help from the HSLS team. This includes tasks such as classifying books. It also involves labelling and updating records in library systems.
• A discount scheme and personal shopper service. Teachers/librarians can make use of our discount scheme using their own budgets. This scheme lets schools stretch limited budgets. Books come shelf-ready with labels and sleeves which help them last. We offer a personal shopper service and can order books on your behalf. We have access to specialist suppliers. We also have access to bibliographic databases.
• An exhibition collection of over 11,000 recommended books for teachers to inspect before sale. The staff will give you advice during your visit. They will also help you order books.
• CPD. This includes meetings with library co-ordinators. It also includes training courses and a chance to network.
• Subscription to 'Pen&Inc magazine.' This contains information on inclusive children’s books.
• Newsletter and discounts on publications.

Performance Standards

• Our helpdesk is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. It is available during the school term and holidays. You can use the email facility outside these hours.
• All staff are qualified. Qualifications are recognised by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals.
• Book orders arrive within three weeks outside school holidays. We can organise faster deliveries for you.
• We will send project loans to your school as soon as possible. We will do this after receiving your request.

What is the School's responsibility?

• Schools are responsible for the care of books. They are also responsible for their return.

What is the contract period?

The contract will run for one year from 1st April 2024 to 31st March 2025. For more information see our support services for education pages. Contact us if you want to discuss a special service or consultancy for your school.