Last week was an exciting one for William Davis Primary School as children’s author AF Steadman visited for the official opening of their new library. It is one of the first spaces launched by the National Literacy Trust during the National Year of Reading, forming a key part of the Libraries for Primaries campaign.
Governors and staff of the Aldgate and Allhallows Foundation were delighted to attend the opening event and to have provided the funding necessary to bring this project to life. Our Chair, Denise Jones, also spoke at the event before officially opening the library by cutting the ribbon.
The new library is in a part of the school that has been completely reimagined. What was once described by a pupil as a “dull, empty parents’ room” has been transformed into a vibrant reading sanctuary. During our visit, it was a privilege to be welcomed by a group of proud pupil librarians who were eager to show us the 500 new books on offer in their fun and cosy new environment. Watching the children’s first reactions as they explored the shelves powerfully demonstrated why these projects are so vital.
All Rights Reserved by the photographer, Steve Bainbridge. Any reproduction without prior consent is strictly forbidden.
Tel:(+44)7887-982798
Email: info@stevebainbridge.net
All Rights Reserved by the photographer, Steve Bainbridge. Any reproduction without prior consent is strictly forbidden.
Tel:(+44)7887-982798
Email: info@stevebainbridge.net
Spaces like this are becoming increasingly important as national reading habits continue to shift. In 2025, the National Literacy Trust’s Annual Literacy Survey found that just 1 in 3 children and young people aged 8–18 say they enjoy reading – a 36% decrease in enjoyment levels since the survey began in 2005.
While the challenges are real, the benefits of reading for pleasure remain as significant as ever. Research consistently shows that reading for fun is a simple but powerful way to build literacy skills, empathy, and overall wellbeing. When reading becomes a central part of a child’s daily life, they gain the tools to build confidence and a greater aptitude for learning.
That’s why we’re proud to support the Libraries for Primaries campaign in its mission to ensure every primary school in the UK has a dedicated library space. This is one of several libraries we have funded in Tower Hamlets as part of this initiative.
“It’s going to be our happy place” – Siobhan, Teacher at William Davis Primary School
The campaign supports schools in developing inclusive, whole-school reading cultures that place enjoyment at the heart of a child’s educational, cultural, and emotional development. By investing in these spaces, providing access to diverse books, and offering ongoing training, the programme helps schools embed a love of reading across the entire community.
The reactions of both pupils and teachers served as a heartening reminder of why we are so proud to be a flagship funder of the Libraries for Primaries campaign. By investing in these environments, we are ensuring that the children at William Davis, and many more to come, have the opportunity to rediscover their love of stories in a space built just for them.