Thirteen Powys primary schools have started the new academic year with new library facilities after securing support worth more than £6,500 each through a national literacy programme.

The schools have joined the Welsh cohort for the National Literacy Trust’s Libraries for Primaries programme, receiving fully funded packages designed to improve reading spaces and encourage children to read for pleasure.

Each school will receive 500 children’s books, library furniture including shelving and soft seating, an audiobook player and story cards.

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

The 13 schools are Penygloddfa C.P. School, Buttington Trewern C.P. School, Carreghofa C.P. School, Ysgol Gynradd Llanfair-ym-Muall/Builth Wells C.P. School, Ysgol Golwg Pen Y Fan, Ysgol Bro Caereinion, St Mary’s R.C. (A) School, Llangattock C.I.W. Primary School, Abermule 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 packages would help schools establish or transform dedicated reading spaces and develop sustainable reading cultures, with the aim of 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, alongside the exciting investment in reading provision at Ysgol Maesydderwen. 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. Together, these developments represent an important step in ensuring that every child has access to the opportunities and experiences that will support their learning, wellbeing and future success."

The announcement follows separate grant funding secured by Ysgol Maesydderwen for the development of its community library.

The project will create opportunities for pupils, families and the wider community to access books, reading resources and literacy activities, extending reading provision beyond the classroom.

More information about the Libraries for Primaries programme is available at: www.librariesforprimaries.org.uk