Newtown area schools secure £19,500 boost for new libraries

Three primary schools in and around Newtown are to receive new books, furniture and reading facilities as part of a major literacy programme.

Penygloddfa C.P. School and St Mary’s R.C. School in Newtown, along with Abermule Primary School, are among 13 schools across Powys selected for the National Literacy Trust’s Libraries for Primaries programme for 2026/27.

Each school will receive a fully funded library package worth more than £6,500, aimed at creating or improving dedicated reading spaces and encouraging more children to read for pleasure.

The packages include 500 children’s books, modular library shelving, soft seating, an audiobook player and story cards.

Two members of staff at each school will also receive specialist training focused on reading for pleasure, while the schools will gain membership of the National Literacy Trust and access to further literacy resources.

Powys County Council said the investment would help schools create welcoming reading environments while supporting literacy, wellbeing and educational achievement.

Cllr James Gibson Watt, Cabinet Member for a Learning Powys, said: “We are delighted that so many Powys schools have successfully secured support through the National Literacy Trust’s Libraries for Primaries programme.

“Creating high-quality reading environments and fostering a strong culture of reading are central to helping children become confident, enthusiastic and independent readers.

“This investment reflects our wider commitment to improving literacy outcomes across Powys. It also aligns with the growing national focus on reading and Estyn’s emphasis on ensuring that schools support learners to become skilled and engaged readers.”

Other Powys schools selected for the programme include Buttington Trewern C.P. School, Carreghofa C.P. School, Ysgol Bro Caereinion, Builth Wells C.P. School, Ysgol Golwg Pen Y Fan, Llangattock C.I.W. Primary School, Llanelwedd C.I.W. School, Sennybridge C.P. School, Priory C.I.W. School and Ysgol Gymraeg Dyffryn Y Glowyr.

The council said the new libraries would give pupils access to a wider and more diverse range of books, helping develop vocabulary, curiosity and imagination.

The investment comes alongside separate grant funding secured by Ysgol Maesydderwen for the development of its community library, which will provide access to books and literacy activities for pupils, families and the wider community.