As we head into 2025, we wanted to reflect on the inspiring achievements and milestones that made 2024 such a remarkable year for the School Library Association. We welcomed almost two hundred new members into the association, secured incredible grant funding that will deliver hundreds of books to school pupils, and collaborated with publishers, corporate partners and other charities to further our mission.
Celebrating Innovation and Growth
This year, we introduced new on-demand courses and made our resources more accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that members and library staff have the flexibility to develop skills at their own pace. Check those out here.
We also received an incredibly generous grant from the Siobhan Dowd Trust to deliver a literacy programme that encourages children to read for pleasure. Every month one SLA member is chosen to take their pupils to a local bookshop and spend £500 on brand new books. To be in with a chance of being selected, join the SLA here.
A key highlight was the launch of our free School Library CPD Programme, which ran throughout Spring and Summer 2024. Conducted in collaboration with The Chartered College of Teaching, this initiative ensured that professional development opportunities were available to all, regardless of budget constraints. The research will be shared in TSL.
Bringing People Together
2024 was a year of connection and collaboration.
Through our Stronger Together campaign, we celebrated the dedication and resilience of school library staff, showcasing their incredible impact on students and schools across the UK.
On 21st October, we co-hosted an event at the House of Commons to advocate for the vital role of school libraries.
Our sell-out Weekend Course in Sheffield provided an excellent opportunity for members to spend time with colleagues, networking, exchanging ideas and sharing best practices. Places are selling fast, click here if you would like to join us in June 2025.
We continued to provide online member meet ups, bringing together members in Scotland, hosting a discussion on budgeting and for those working on Pupil Library Assistant Programmes.
Recognising Excellence
Our annual awards recognise the outstanding contributions of school library staff and projects. Heather Grainger was named Secondary School Librarian of the Year for her incredible transformation of her library into a vibrant and inspiring space for students. The inaugural Peter Usborne Primary School Library of the Year Award went to Steyning C of E Primary.
In 2024, Swiss Gardens won the Enterprise of the Year Award for transforming their outdated library. They partnered with their Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), pupils, parents, grandparents, and local volunteers to refurbish shelves, create displays, and work with a local bookshop’s “Pay it Forward” campaign to collect donations. Their outreach included family book-sharing events, quizzes, crafts, story sessions with the local preschool and pop-up events targeted at Pupil Premium families in the area.
The annual Information Book Award, supported by Hachette Children’s Group and Peters, celebrated six incredible authors, demonstrating how crucial books are in informing and inspiring young readers.
The SLA Team
In July, we welcomed Paul Register as the Chair of the SLA. At the end of 2024, Alison Tarrant, CEO of the SLA, stepped down after seven transformative years. Alison’s visionary leadership guided the SLA through challenging times and positioned it as a stronger, more impactful organisation. Her dedication and passion have left a lasting legacy. We also said goodbye to Hannah Groves, who left the SLA after three and a half years as our Marketing and Communications Officer. We wish them both every success in their future endeavours.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we move into 2025, we remain committed to our mission of supporting school libraries in creating spaces where every student can thrive. With an exciting year ahead, we look forward to building on the achievements of 2024 and continuing to empower school library staff, nurture a love of reading, and advocate for the vital role of school libraries.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us and we look forward to another impactful year!
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