The School Library Association (SLA) has today (15 February 2010) launched its new Primary School Library Charter, arguing that investment in school libraries must start early.

The Charter will help primary headteachers and governors set up and run a school library or increase the contribution that their current library makes to the school's effectiveness and the pupils' wellbeing and learning. Sir Tim Brighouse, associate professor at the Institute of Education, University of London and former Schools Commissioner for London, welcomed the charter, saying: "The school library is one of the key indicators of whether a school environment is as best fitted as it can be for learning. If the library is a desert, you start to worry".

The School Library Association believes it is vital that children have access to school libraries for the daily opportunity of wider reading experiences as well as information and research skill building from an early age. Children who can confidently find their way around the school library have the key to future learning and leisure.

As the School Libraries Commission, chaired by Baroness Estelle Morris, invites contributions to its inquiry into the role of school libraries in 21st century schools, the SLA Primary School Library Charter outlines the benefits of a well supported and resourced primary school library, such as:

• Creating independent readers for life
• Teaching young children the information literacy skills and judgement they need to become creative, curious, confident and flexible learners throughout their school years and beyond
• Delivering the aims of the Government's Children's Plan for every child to enjoy their childhood and achieve their full potential
• Providing an important community space for out-of-hours learning and a point of contact with families.

The SLA Primary School Library Charter is available at http://www.sla.org.uk/primary-charter. Print copies will be sent direct to all SLA members and will be available through school library services, and schools can order single copies by e-mailing publications[at]sla.org.uk.