School library services are goldmines of resource and expertise, but they are at risk
A key finding of a School of Education research report just published is that over half of England’s School Library Services (SLS) have closed since 2005.
The research report was the key output of a research project led by Dr Lucy Taylor and Dr Paula Clarke of the University of Leeds School of Education, commissioned by the Association of Senior Children’s and Education Librarians (ASCEL) and funded by Arts Council England.
School Library Services are run by experienced, qualified librarians who have extensive knowledge of the curriculum, and are offered to schools by local authorities through the public library service, education service, or through an independent provider. In most cases, schools subscribe individually. They provide a range of services including book sourcing and loans, advisory services to support learning and activities to enhance teacher knowledge and skills.
However, until the study, it was not known how many SLS were still running, how they were funded or what services they offered. It was the first report to investigate the state of these services in 20 years. The study was designed to create a new map and database of existing SLS services and bring to light the current risks and opportunities that they face.
Drs Lucy Taylor and Paula Clarke found that there are 57 SLS running in England, down from 130 in 2005. As of 2024, only 11 of the 39 surveyed SLSs were in receipt of any direct government funding.
100% of those surveyed said that their SLS was valued, and that their service contributed positively to teaching and learning.
They identified their strengths in meeting the needs of schools, the important relationships built with teachers, the vast range and quality of their available resources and services, and the high calibre of their staff.
While there is some confidence in financial stability in the short term, less than 10% thought their SLS would remain financially secure in the long term.
SLS provide a fantastic service which once lost, cannot be replaced. They are like goldmines of resources and expertise. We hope this report will contribute to ongoing efforts to support and promotes them.
The report is further evidence of the School of Education’s strong reputation in Childhood and Youth Studies, for which it ranks 1st in the UK according to the Complete University Guide 2025.
