School libraries during Covid-19 – the benefits of a flexible library space

April 21st 2021

In recent months, we’ve seen an increase in schools requesting ‘flexible libraries’, or investing in mobile shelving and furniture that’s easy to relocate at any time. During the Covid-19 pandemic, many schools have been unable to use their main library spaces – or at least, they are unable to use them in quite the same way. Normal visiting hours have changed in many school libraries, with many classes having their library lessons delivered online. School librarians are having to think outside the box, finding creative ways to make sure books reach their pupils while they’re unable to visit the library in person.

Here are just a few of the ways in which we are seeing schools adapt their library spaces:

Reconfiguring the space

Where schools are using their libraries, CILIP’s guidance suggests they should consider designating separate entrance and exit points, to allow for the movement of pupils through the library and minimise the risk of congestion. Having mobile furniture and seating makes this a lot easier to manage.

Physical distancing

Mobile shelving also allows schools to reconfigure their book display, so that pupils who do come into the library to browse can stay 2m apart from others. Distancing aside, many pupils like to be able to move a bookcase closer to where they’re sitting or vice versa when they’re browsing or reading a book. All evidence suggests pupils should feel as comfortable as possible in their school library space – this helps with their focus and concentration and therefore supports overall attainment.

Click and collect

If students are requesting books via email or your school’s online catalogue, why not use moveable shelving or book display boxes for each year group when they come to collect – or, you can even deliver the books to them!

Book boxes

Book boxes are sometimes used within primary schools as a way of supporting class teachers with specific curriculum topics, however their portability means they can also be used to deliver a whole range of reading material to form groups.

Quarantining books

Many schools are ‘quarantining’ new and returned library books for around 72 hours before returning them to the shelves. This may require additional storage or shelving space, or again the flexibility to move your existing shelving. A standalone book return trolley is also great for this.

Keep your library looking its best

Flexible, mobile libraries are increasingly popular not only in light of Covid-19, but also because they help prevent wear and tear, and can be the best solution for schools with freshly painted walls where no fixing is allowed. Mobile units can stay mid-floor and be rolled from one side to the other. They’re also great if your library or reading area has limited wall space – if your walls are occupied by radiators, screens or projectors, for example.

If your school is planning a movable library space, check out our range of flexible furniture:

• Units with castors Our double-sided units on castors can easily be moved and then secured in the position in which you’d like them to stay. (It’s easy to move them again if you change your mind at a later date!)
• Smaller seating Smaller seating options such as our pods and cubes are light and easy to move around. Soft seating items (beanbags, cushions) can even be stacked in a corner at the end of each day, or if you need to open up space for a class to sit on the floor.
• Mobile spinners Our spinners are designed to be positioned away from the wall so that all of the books can be viewed with ease.
• Book return trolley Our book return trolley is also moveable, so can be wheeled around the school to allow pupils from each ‘bubble’ to return their books easily. Any books returned via the book return trolley can then be quarantined if needed. 

Browse our full furniture range. 

If you’d like to know more about the benefits of a flexible library space, or to request a bespoke design for your library, book a design visit online or contact our team directly at designservices@peters.co.uk.