Study Support in the Libraries is a joint initiative between the Children’s Library Service and the Out of School Hours Learning (Study Support) team of Tower Hamlets. The initiative was launched in 1996 at Whitechapel and Bethnal Green Libraries. The initial aim was to provide a space for young people to work in their local library, with the support of a designated children’s librarian and an experienced tutor. Furthermore, it was recognised that the aim of creating a study support environment should be to build the confidence of young people, increase their motivation and help them to develop the attitudes, and acquire the habits, that will lead them to independent and lifelong learning. Today, study support learning takes place at 5 Tower Hamlets Libraries.

Tower Hamlets library study support centres

Tower Hamlets libraries provide a wealth of resources for the young people. The partnership with Tower Hamlets Out of School Hours Learning (Study Support) helps to maximise the potential of this learning environment. Young people who use the Library Study Support Centres have access to books, ICT resources, curriculum materials, GCSE and SATs revision papers, educational games, plus a librarian and a study support tutor who can offer group or individual support. This support can take the form of the following: work set and organised by the library service, work started at or set by the school and work negotiated between the tutor and the learner.

Study Support in the Libraries operates throughout the year. However, during the summer break it takes a slightly different form and the centres do not operate in the same way as they had throughout the rest of the year. Instead, a two week programme is developed and delivered by one of the study support tutors, and assisted by other tutors and librarians. During the fortnight, study support is delivered at a large number of the libraries throughout the borough, depending upon space. The young people are given scope to take part in creative and practical activities and work in a hands-on learning environment.

The accessibility of the study support tutors is a valuable part of the study support learning environment. Within the library, young people find it reassuring to know that they can share information or ideas with the tutor or librarian in a non-threatening environment. They are able to receive support that is directed at their own needs and feel comfortable about asking for help, should they need it. Likewise, parents are able to see for themselves the value of study support, as they are welcomed by the centres and have the opportunity to stay with their children should they chose to.

Success is rewarded in the library study support centres. Tutors and librarians value the conscious decision that has been made by a young person to attend a centre and are careful to view everyone as individuals, rather than a class. In a positive Study Support environment, it is understood that recognising a vast array of achievements is vital. From improving the quality of homework, to being able to work constructively with peers of a different ability or age, all progress is significant and celebrated.