Please note that we will automatically hold all schools orders from 30 March 2026 to 17 April 2026 due to the Easter break. We know that Easter holiday start dates vary this year so that the holiday period extends over three weeks. If your school remains open for delivery for all or part of this time and you'd like your books delivered, please let us know at online checkout, or by calling us on 0121 666 6646 or emailing hello@peters.co.uk.

Sorry, but you already have a basket with that name. Please use something else.

How to create an Outdoor reading area for your school or library

March 2nd 2026

Spending quality time outdoors and reading regularly offer similar social, emotional and physical benefits. Improved mood, concentration, and empathy are just a few of the positives children gain - so why separate these spaces, when instead you can offer a dedicated reading zone outside?

Our designers give their top tips and recommendations for creating an Outdoor library for children, from safe book storage to carryable water-resistant cushions.

What are the benefits of an Outdoor library?

Outdoor environments naturally support improved focus and concentration, and the freedom to move, choose, and create in these settings enhances problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Being surrounded by nature also contributes to better mental health and higher self esteem, offering a calming backdrop that helps children feel safe and confident.

When learners feel more relaxed and in control, levels of frustration and aggression tend to decrease, making outdoor reading and learning spaces not only enriching but also supportive of positive behaviour.

Thoughtfully designed outdoor furniture is, therefore, more than décor - it becomes a catalyst for curiosity, wellbeing, and meaningful learning beyond the classroom.

Take reading outside with our top tips for creating an outdoor library

Safely store books outside with a purpose-built shed

Understandably, you may be hesitant to store books and library resources outside, especially in the UK's changeable climate!

However, building your outdoor library around a well-designed shed, like our Outdoor reading shed, prevents books from being squirreled indoors and stores them safely in your dedicated outside reading space. These sheds are built for all types of weather and can withstand vigorous use.

Our designers recommend using smaller storage solutions alongside your shed, like the Book boxes kit, so you can carry resources out and around your outdoor library space easily, and help keep your shed tidy.

Outdoor reading library | outdoor furniture for schools

Offer a designated shelter for reading and learning

Whilst reading in the sunshine is the ideal experience for most, we recommended offering optional shelter from the elements in your outdoor library.

Shelters such as the Outdoor reading room and the Outdoor reading library are perfect for small group reading or learning. Shelters like these offer additional storage space for books and resources as well as more seating options for young readers.

By including a shelter, you ensure your outdoor library is accessible year-round - not just in the sunny weather!

Featured: Forest fern peephole (left), Outdoor reading shed (right),
Earthy colours cushions (throughout)

Outdoor school library | forest school library ideas

Featured: Reading shed with book boxes (left); Outdoor reading library,
Reading throne, and Outdoor cushions and mat (right)

Use water-resistant soft seating for flexibility outdoors

The joy of reading outdoors is that you can read anywhere! With water-resistant cushions and mats, young readers can explore the outdoor space whilst still having somewhere comfy to read.

Outdoor mats and cushions are the simplest way to take reading outdoors, especially if you have limited budget.

Our Earthy colours cushions and Outdoor cushions and mats come in nature-inspired colours, perfect for either grassy lawns or playground pavements.

Forest fern peephole | Outdoor furniture for schools

Add cosy hide-outs for independent reading and outdoor exploration

Offering an outdoor reading space is a great opportunity to encourage children's natural curiosity and instinct to explore. Capitalise on this opportunity and include hide-outs and tunnels to bring a sense of fun and imagination to your library as they explore the outdoors!

Our designers recommend the Forest fern peephole and the Cosy coloured peephole tunnel.

"Outdoor furniture plays a powerful role in transforming outdoor areas into meaningful learning environments. By incorporating elements such as dens, cushions, and accessible book storage, outdoor spaces become inviting, comfortable, and purposeful -- encouraging learners to engage more deeply with reading and exploration."

Jessica McCoy, Interior Design Manager

Explore the Outdoors reading range for schools and libraries

Take reading and learning outdoors with our curated selection of outdoor furniture and accessories. From wooden shelters, huts and dens to benches and soft-seating, you can mix and match to create a unique outdoor reading space for your school or library.