Six young pupils from Slough had a tase of what it’s like to work in a public library on Friday, July 11, as they spent a day shadowing staff.
Young librarians learn the ropes at Slough Library.The students from St Mary’s School, aged between ten and 11, worked in Slough’s children’s library and learnt how to purchase, issue and withdraw books.
As the Slough children’s team are also responsible for activities for young children, during the day the pupils had the chance to brainstorm ideas to create activities that can be used to keep children entertained during school holidays.
Liz Broekmann, principal librarian of the children’s team at Slough Borough Council, said: “We work closely with several local schools, advising pupils of the key role their local library plays in the community, but this is a great deal more interactive.
“We were thrilled to have the pupils as colleagues for a day to share ideas on improving their library.
Cllr Shafiq Chaudhry, commissioner for community and leisure, said: “This is a great opportunity to learn how a busy library runs.
“The day will also promote the services of Slough’s libraries and encourage key communication skills in young people.”
Also this month, four pupils from Herschel Grammar School completing the Duke of Edinburgh Award will begin their service at the children’s section at Slough Library.
This makes a total of six pupils at the library working towards the award by volunteering at the library, helping with general tasks, shelving books and preparing for the Summer Reading Challenge.
Liz Broekmann added: “We’re thrilled young people have chosen to do their service in the library.
“We value their work, and if they enjoy it, they may even want to work at one of Slough’s libraries in the future.”
Slough Borough Council
