Kids @ Westminster libraries

Page for parents & guardians

The Kids@Westminster Libraries section of our website has been especially developed with children in mind.
It offers useful links to support their homework and leisure needs, and to encourage them as readers. It also gives them information about all aspects of the library service relevant to them.

Learning in libraries

Homework
All our libraries have homework collections, and staff are always happy to help children find what they need. Children can also visit for homework advice and to use a selection of useful websites.

You may also be interested in the 'Keeping Up With the Kids' session at Church Street library which offers parents the opportunity to learn how to better help their children with their homework.

Reading schemes
Every summer the libraries invite children to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge. This is a nationally organised scheme, designed to encourage children of all abilities to continue their reading during the holidays and to experiment with different authors and genres. It's not a competition but a personal challenge – a child’s achievement will be recognised whether they read just one or two, six or even sixty books. It’s all about having fun and learning to love books and get the most out of the library.

Schools
All the libraries work closely with local schools, and all primary school children (and many secondary pupils) will have the opportunity to visit their local library with their class during the school year. Children are shown how to use the library and introduced to a range of useful resources and exciting fiction choices. Your local library can tell you more about their current programme for schools.

Reading Groups
There are children’s Chatterbooks reading groups at several libraries. This is an educational initiative from the Orange Prize for Fiction and embraces four to twelve year olds, encouraging children to read adventurously, share their enthusiasm about books and develop the confidence to formulate and express opinions about reading. Jacqueline Wilson is the project’s Patron. Ask at your library if your child is interested in joining a group – although they are very popular and sometimes there are waiting lists to join!

Useful links

You can find a small selection of websites aimed at supporting people bringing up children in the 'Family & Personal' section of the Westminster Libraries information Gateway.

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