PRIMARY school bookworms now have a superb reading facility thanks to fundraising efforts from parents and teachers alike.

St Mary’s in Dunmow officially opened its brand new library on Monday morning and welcomed children’s laureate Anthony Brown to cut the ribbon.

Headteacher Val White said: “Thanks to the generosity the library is equipped with new bookshelves, computers, sofas, comfortable chairs, floor cushions and rugs to make it an appealing place for reading, researching and above all for enjoying books.

“Our old library was so full of books there was barely room to stand. Now we have space for children to sit and read on a sofa or armchair, or lie on the rug or cushions.

“Many children choose to read in the library during their playtimes and bring their parents in after school to choose books together.

“Because so many aspects of learning depend upon the ability to read, we know that our new library and collection of books will be of lasting benefit to all our children.”

The opening was attended by representatives from the school PTA who have organised and helped with fund raising activities for the last two years.

Parents of the school also contributed �12,000 to the project.

Mr Browne was shown around the library by a group of very enthusiastic children and he gave a talk to two large groups about stories and illustrations.

Throughout the week pupils have also been having book themed assemblies and mealtimes and competitions.

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