OVINGHAM Middle School welcomed author Dan Smith to open its new library earlier this month.

An extension to the school was built to house the new library, which was officially opened on Friday, June 8.

The new library space is larger than the old one, which also sometimes doubled as a classroom, and has sofa areas where children can sit and read.

The school postponed its World Book Day celebrations to coincide with the grand opening, with many youngsters opting to dress up as their favourite literary characters.

Dan Smith, author of Big Game and Boy X, joined governors, pupils, librarians and staff at the opening.

He also held two workshops with Key Stage 2 and Key Stage 3 pupils about writing spooky stories.

English co-ordinator at Ovingham Middle School Suzanne Quinn said: “It really is a special place for pupils to develop their love of reading and we are really proud of it.”