CILIP SLG: New Year, New Ideas

I am a traditionally-trained professional librarian, having completed my graduate traineeship at King Edward VI School Lichfield before studying for an MA in Information and Library Studies at Aberystwyth University. I have been the sole librarian at my current school since 2015, and was shortlisted for School Librarian of the Year 2026!

Title: Pride Champions: Establishing and Sustaining an LGBTQ+ student group 

A crash course in setting up and running a supportive, inclusive group for LGBTQ+ students and allies in secondary schools, including legal and safeguarding considerations, logistical and practical matters, and what to actually do in meetings. 

I initially entered library work without official library qualifications. I had completed an MA in Victorian Literature, Arts and Culture and was working as an Education Officer at a museum site, when I first applied to work in a school Library, purely through love and knowledge of books and education. I began as the Library assistant and am now the Assistant Librarian (a small word switch but big role difference). Currently I am undertaking my CILIP Chartership. 

Title: A School Library Project Involving Whole Families in Reading

A guide to running a large whole school reading project encompassing children from Reception to Sixth Form, aimed at involving the whole family in their child's reading. I will explain the challenge itself along with the creative set up and also the problems encountered along the way.

Dr Rebecca Jones is an information professional specialising in information literacy, independent inquiry and academic stretch across Key Stage 2 to Sixth Form. A former Head of Library & Enrichment and current AQA EPQ Moderator, she has led whole‑school enrichment programmes, collaborated with senior leaders on curriculum development and delivered INSET on research skills and More Able provision. She now provides academic coaching and project mentorship for pupils.

Title: Unlocking EPQ Success: The Librarian’s Skills Menu

This session outlines a menu of skills and targeted interventions that the Librarian can contribute to support EPQ candidates.

It explores how, you, as an information specialist can enhance student success across all EPQ Assessment Objectives through taught sessions, interventions and supervisor support.

The session will provide some tips and suggestions on how to maximise your impact.

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Jenni is Head of Library Services and Curator of Collections at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Barnet. Jenni studied Archaeology and Anthropology at Keble College, Oxford before gaining an MA in Museum Studies at the University of Leicester leading to a career in both libraries and heritage organisations. Her library career began working in public libraries and then in 2014 Jenni worked with two co-Directors to launch the first ever St Albans Literary Festival, organising the programme for children, young adults and schools.

Helping to foster a love for reading in young people encouraged her to apply for roles in school libraries and she continues to advocate for reading for pleasure in her role as committee member for the CILIP School Libraries Group. Alongside her work in the Queen’s Library Jenni takes care of the school archive, organising and digitising material for access by students, staff, OE’s and the wider community.

Title: History Book Boxes
A project in partnership with the History Department encouraging students to read historical fiction to support curriculum topics.

Barbara Band is a qualified Chartered Librarian with over 35 years’ experience working in school libraries. She now offers freelance consultancy and training, supporting the development and promotion of school libraries. Barbara is currently Vice Chair and Treasurer of CILIP’s School Libraries Group (SLG). Her book, Championing Your School Library: A Practical Guide to Advocacy, Marketing and Promotion, was published by Facet last year, and her next book, The Power of Your School Library: Demonstrating Value and Impact, is due to be published in 2027.

Title: From Library Activity to School Impact: Making the Case with Evidence

How can school librarians demonstrate the difference their work makes? In this practical session, we’ll explore how to gather evidence before and after a library activity, connect findings to school priorities and present a compelling case to senior leaders. Using a case study, we’ll consider how evaluation can move beyond counting activities and participation to demonstrate impact and strengthen advocacy for the school library.

Lucas Maxwell is from Nova Scotia, Canada and has been working with youth in libraries for nearly twenty years. He writes non-fiction books for librarians and fictional novels for teens. His debut novel, A Million Tiny Missies All At Once, is out with Chicken House Books.

Title: Beyond the Game: Dungeons & Dragons Builds Readers, Creativity and Confidence

How Dungeons and Dragons fosters reading, creativity and wellbeing in the school library.