History of Sedbergh School in 50 Objects #43: Sedbergh Prep School Library
The library at Sedbergh Prep School is a truly special place. Its bright, expansive space forms a focal point of the school, where pupils and staff come together to share their joy and enthusiasm for reading in surroundings that are both vibrant and cosy.
Before the merger of Casterton and Sedbergh Schools, Casterton was home to two libraries: the Staines Library, located downstairs in what is now the boys’ boot room, and the Allen Library upstairs — the very room that now serves as the library for the whole school. The Allen Library was once reserved for sixth form pupils. One former Casterton pupil recalls that, during her time, the library was used for silent study and felt dark and sombre. Today, it could not be more different.
When the schools merged in 2013, the then school librarian, Mrs Cox, set to work transforming the space into the bright, warm and welcoming hub it is now. Many of the old library stacks were removed to create a more open feel; books were transferred to the Senior School, and a whole new collection of engaging and age-appropriate titles for prep school children was sourced. The room and shelving were painted white, and the stark tables and chairs were replaced with broad group-work tables and comfortable sofas.
The library continues to evolve. The current librarian, Mrs Suttle, explains:
“It’s so important that the library is a welcoming space for everyone. It’s a real joy to see how much pupils love reading. We’ve created places for them to curl up with a book by the fire, and last year we completed the conversion of the annex to create a separate pre-prep library. It houses books for our youngest pupils, but children of all ages love spending time there because it’s such a comfortable, vibrant space.”
Mrs Chatterley has introduced the Accelerated Reader Programme to foster independent reading. Through the scheme, pupils receive personalised book recommendations, take quizzes on titles they have finished, and are set individual reading targets — all of which help to motivate them and deepen their enjoyment of reading.
Headmistress Mrs Martin is keen to build on pupils’ enthusiasm for visiting the library. Later this term, children will be creating their own “book nooks” using craft materials available in the library. This sense of pupil ownership runs throughout the space, with children given the freedom to explore, research, borrow, and return books independently. The library uses the online catalogue, Accessit, that allows children to search for, reserve and review books. As in many areas of the Prep School, pupils are developing valuable life skills through their use of the library.
As well as being a literary hub, the library is both literally and figuratively at the heart of the School. It hosts social events for pupils, parents, and friends of the School; talks by visiting speakers; academic lessons; and both peer-led and teacher-led clubs and societies. With large windows on two sides, visitors can look out across the Headmistress’s lawn, the gardens, play areas, and sports courts. For much of the year, when the windows are open, the sounds of birdsong and children playing drift into this cheerful, lively space. Throughout the day, pupils flow in and out — returning books, chatting with the librarian or the volunteer assistant, or taking part in lessons and events. Boarders enjoy the special privilege of extra access in the evenings and at weekends.
This central hub of school life is always evolving. Its walls are decorated with quotations from beloved children’s books, including the iconic line from Matilda: “Somewhere inside all of us is the power to change the world.” The library continues to play a vital role in helping our pupils grow into happy, independent, and creative young people.
