A WIRRAL school librarian who goes 'the extra mile' to make reading the heart of students' education has won a national award. 

Heather Grainger, from Weatherhead High School in Wallasey, was named Secondary School Librarian of the Year at the School Library Association (SLA)'s award ceremony in London.

After 'glowing' recommendations from colleagues, Heather is said to have wowed the judging panel with her 'commitment, empathy and enthusiasm' in a role she has now held for more than a decade. She has helped create and maintain a “safe haven” for students who need space to read and relax in an otherwise busy school environment.

In addition to creating a library that students can enjoy on a daily basis, Heather has expanded the school’s annual ‘Weatherhead Lit Fest’, previously known as Author Week.

Described as an 'impressively diverse and inclusive celebration, which this year was ‘bigger and better than ever before’, it included all students from years seven to 10, a local primary school visit, and trips to a local bookshop and library.

Her drive to introduce a range of reading initiatives including World Book Days, Harry Potter Nights and Poetry Slams was also said to have proved 'wildly successful in establishing a culture of reading for pleasure', while her Student Librarian Leadership Scheme and efforts to engage every child in the school with reading, whatever their ability or background, attracted high praise from the SLA judging team.

Reflecting on her achievement, Heather said: "I am incredibly honoured to win this award from the SLA.

"The other honours-listed librarians, and all the other award winners, show the amazing work that is being done in school libraries every day.

"I am so fortunate to have colleagues and a leadership team who champion our school library, and truly value the work that I do.

"Our wonderful students make this job a real pleasure, and provide endless inspiration.”

Award-winning author, Robin Stevens presented the awards with all winners receiving a wide selection of books and book tokens.

School Literacy Lead Clare Benazzouz, who nominated Heather for this year’s award, said: "Every day there are activities in the library. Heather works hard to ensure the programme is inclusive and caters to a diverse range of student interests: from Dungeons and Dragons and book awards to the Thursday Murdle club, it all goes on." 

An SLA judge added: "You can see the changes that have happened because of how she's worked. The library has evolved and it's still evolving. It is very forward-looking."

Alison Tarrant, chief executive of the SLA, said: "At a time when many families and communities are experiencing real hardship, it’s deeply encouraging to see individuals like Heather going the extra mile to make reading more accessible for the children and young people they support.

"Her passion and commitment are not only infectious, but hugely impactful too.”