Hellesdon High’s Book Boom

Hellesdon High School’s library has been given a major boost thanks to the generosity of the local community.
According to the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, every school library should have 13 books per pupil which meant Hellesdon High’s library was short of what they needed.
As a result, the school appealed to parents, and the residents of Hellesdon, to donate their pre-loved books. Now, just two months later, the library shelves are bursting with more than 620 new books which have been kindly re-homed.

Sarita Ould-Zaouche, who manages the school library, said: “I am delighted with all our new books. The response has been overwhelming and these donations mean we now have more titles and variety to offer. I am hugely grateful for the support. It shows people realise how important reading is and they like to pass on books they have enjoyed themselves. The school library is such an important space for our students, offering a homework club, lunchtime activities and a calm zone, so thank you to everyone who has contributed.”
Astonishingly, almost 500 of the books have been donated by one person alone. Christine Calver has been trawling charity shops to support the book drive and has also secured money from the PTA to provide book protection covers.
Christine said: “I’ve had three children attend Hellesdon High and I wanted to give something back to the school. It means alot to me to encourage young people to read.”
Sarita, who is also known by the students as Mrs Oz, added: “Christine has been absolutely incredible. We cannot thank her enough.”
If you would like to donate any fiction or non-fiction books appropriate for teenagers and young adults, please drop them off at the Hellesdon High School reception.
Every person who donates books to the school is acknowledged with a special message inside each one.