The Great School Libraries campaign was a UK-wide, evidence-based advocacy initiative that championed the importance of school libraries and professional school librarians. Launched in 2018 by CILIP, the CILIP School Libraries Group (SLG), and the School Library Association (SLA), the campaign brought together librarians, educators, researchers and policymakers to demonstrate the vital role that school libraries play in supporting reading, literacy, wellbeing and educational achievement. Its central aim was to ensure that every child has access to a great school library.
Running across two phases and concluding in 2025, the campaign generated significant research, collected examples of outstanding school library practice, developed practical resources for schools, and strengthened the evidence base for investment in school library services across the UK.
The Great School Libraries campaign has now finished, but its impact continues through the resources it created. As a legacy of the project, we have archived the campaign’s case studies, research reports and campaign posters on the CILIP School Libraries Group (SLG) website. These downloadable resources remain freely available for schools, librarians, educators and advocates to support ongoing school library development, advocacy and professional practice.