Conclusion 41

It is striking that libraries are statutory requirements in prisons, but not schools. Once funding for primary and secondary schools is in place, the Department must recognise school libraries as essential public services and place them on a statutory footing. As part of this, it should consult on the definition of a library and be open to including book corners in classrooms or other reading spaces, as well as dedicated rooms. As a first step, it must start collecting data on school libraries and the presence of dedicated library staff by adding this to the school census. This must be completed by the end of the next academic year. (Recommendation, Paragraph 161) 94