The newly refurbished library at Kingsmeadow School in Dunston, Gateshead, has been formally opened, offering pupils an updated learning environment coinciding with the National Year of Reading.
Local contractor completes school project
The redesign was carried out by North East firm Manners on behalf of EQUANS. Representatives from Manners attended the launch to celebrate the new facility with students and staff. The company also provided a contribution of new books to help stock the shelves and support young readers.
"It was a privilege to see the library officially opened and, most importantly, filled with students enjoying the space," said Joe Reed, head of small works at Manners.
Joanne McGarry, head of English at the school, welcomed the refurbishment and said the improved area would support reading and learning across the whole school community. The opening included opportunities for pupils to explore the revamped space and enjoy storytelling led by project team members.
What the project delivered
- Physical upgrade: a redesigned library environment intended to foster curiosity and creativity.
- Community involvement: Manners staff joined pupils at the launch and participated in storytelling activities.
- Resources: a donation of new books valued at £1,000 to replenish and expand reading material.
The presence of author David Almond at the opening gave pupils an early opportunity to see the library in use and to engage with storytelling from a practising children’s writer. Manners said its donation was intended to ensure the space continues to be a place where imagination and learning can flourish.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| School | Kingsmeadow School, Dunston |
| Contractor | Manners (on behalf of EQUANS) |
| Donation | £1,000 worth of books |
| Special guest | Children’s author David Almond |
School leaders say the improved library will support efforts to strengthen vocabulary, encourage a lifelong habit of reading and provide a quieter, better equipped space for study. The project is a local example of firms, schools and authors collaborating to promote literacy and reading engagement among children in Gateshead.
Further information about the National Year of Reading and local literacy initiatives can be obtained from the school or the council’s education services.
