Resources and budgeting
Planning for a new Primary School library - frequently asked questions
References are to The Primary School Guidelines published by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP) An updated copy (revised in 2002) is available to download from CILIP or hard copies (published in 2000) can be borrowed from the SLRS. Page references are to the original published version.
How many library resources should we have?
Guidelines page 6
- up to date and relevant items only and excluding reading schemes and textbooks
- multiply current school roll by 13 to calculate how many books and other resources are needed for school use
- minimum amount is 2,400 items
- replace 10% annually
- shortfall needs to be budgeted for in a development plan
What will this cost?
- Latest CILIP figure £12.50 per item.
- Discounts available for most titles – SLRS subscribers can benefit from 20% by using our suppliers Peters Bookselling Services – contact SLRS first to register.
- Servicing of titles (recommended) eg book covers and classification is charged per item
How do we choose resources?
Guidelines pages 7- 9
“Selecting the right resources for the library is the key to success. It will enable the primary school library to inspire a child’s imagination, provide for a child’s information needs and create a life long learner.”
