A Bedford School student has been named a finalist in the Pupil Library Assistant of the Year Awards (PLAA), a prestigious national competition recognising the invaluable contributions of pupil librarians across the UK.
Upper Sixth Former Alex Lamb has been shortlisted for the award, now in its twelfth year, which is organised by the School Libraries Group of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP SLG) and the School Library Association (SLA).
Alex was nominated by Bedford School’s Library and Information Manager, Miss Chatley, for his dedication, leadership, and positive influence in the school library. Entries were judged by a panel of experts from the children’s book industry and school library community, assessing the impact that pupil librarians have on their schools and fellow students.
Miss Chatley praised Alex’s commitment to his role, describing him as “selfless with his time” and always bringing a “happy disposition” to the library. She highlighted his willingness to engage with discussions on library processes, his ability to assist and support fellow students, and his strong work ethic. “Despite Alex’s demonstrated competencies, he has always remained a humble and gracious individual,” she added.
Speaking about his achievement, Alex expressed his delight at being named a finalist. “I was shocked and surprised that I’d made it but was very happy overall. Helping to ensure that the library runs smoothly so that everyone can get the most out of it has been my favourite part of being a student librarian,” he said. He also thanked the library team for their support, particularly Mrs Shirley, and spoke about how much he values the library as a quiet space for study, reading, and research.
Barbara Band, Chair of the PLAA Judging Panel, praised this year’s nominees for their dedication and contributions, which range from administrative work to fostering inclusive and welcoming library spaces. Chantel Carpenter, Director of Schools Marketing at Pearson, also commended all finalists, stressing the importance of libraries in encouraging a love of reading.
The award winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on Tuesday, 25 March, hosted by Pearson and presented by comedian and children’s author Russell Kane.
The YouthTV community congratulates Alex on this fantastic achievement and wishes him the best of luck in the final.