One of the Together Trust’s students, attending Inscape House School, is among the eight finalists across the country for the Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Award 2023. The prestigious Award is introduced by the CILIP School Libraries Group (SLG) and the School Library Association, and it recognises the valued assistance of pupils who help within their school libraries.
Talia, who is in Year 12, was nominated for the prestigious Award by Jenna-May Griffiths, Librarian at Inscape House School, due to her dedication and active involvement in the school library:
“Talia came to my mind at once when I learned of The Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Award. Her passion and energy for our school library is an inspiration to both students and staff. Her proactive nature, alongside her positivity, consistently offers solutions and innovations within the library that are in alignment with its mission.”
The judging panel, among which is Sufiya Ahmed, the author of the bestselling book – ‘Secrets of the Henna Girl’, have been fascinated with the young lady’s commitment and enthusiasm for the school library.
In the final stage of the contest, Talia has been tasked with writing a letter to the local MP explaining why she considers school libraries to be important and draw the MP’s attention to the Great School Libraries campaign. Her other task is to come up with a suggestion for the librarian of how she would spend £500 to engage reluctant readers and non-library users.
“Talia’s determination has really shone through this year: regardless of her struggles with social interaction, she pushes through the challenges and overcomes her barriers, dedicated to constantly striving to offer the best possible library service to our school community,” says Jenna-May Griffiths, Librarian at Inscape House School.
“I was thrilled to hear the news that she is one of the finalists for this prestigious award! It is so very well-deserved.”
The young lady has already submitted her completed tasks and is looking forward to attending the awards ceremony in London on 30 June, which she has been invited to along with Jenna.
