Provost opens refurbished library

Mar 3 2011 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

WORK on a Livingston school speaks volumes about pupils’ reading habits.

West Lothian’s provost, Tom Kerr, paid a special visit to Bankton Primary School in Dedridge to perform the official opening of its refurbished library.

And he was joined at the event by Alan Burnett, author of real-life adventure books, read to pupils and the whole day will be dedicated to enjoying books, reading and to wider literacy developments.

Provost Tom Kerr said he was pleased to see the new library open.

He said: “I was delighted to be asked to perform the official opening of the new facility for the school.

“I would like to say congratulations for the school and the Parent Council for their hard work in fundraising.

“On behalf of the school I would also like to thank The Foyle Foundation for its support.

“I’m sure that the pupils will enjoy their new library.”

Teachers and pupils all enjoyed a day dedicated to books, competitions and lots of other literacy activities and they are looking forward to using the new library.

And pupils at the school said the new library is a big bonus for them.

Primary five pupil, Deborah, said: “The library has some great fiction and non-fiction books which are very educational – you can learn a lot from them. I love to read the Judy Blume books.”

Amy from P7 also said she loves the library.

She said: “Our new library has a bright and fun atmosphere where children can read their books in peace.”

Head teacher Marlyn Taylor said she is sure the new library will be well used by her pupils.

She said: “The library was part of the ongoing developments within the school since the school refurbishment, which was completed at the end of 2009.

“We successfully applied for a grant of £5000 from The Foyle Foundation and this enabled us to buy new bookshelves, tables and chairs, and also gave us some lovely soft furnishings and book stands.

“Our Parent Council also worked very hard to support the library development and have given significant funds towards buying new books.

“Pupils, staff and parents have really been looking forward to this opening.

“We feel certain that our new library will create another opportunity to enhance our children’s experience at school and provide a great tool for improving reading, writing, research and speaking skills.”