Creating Reading Nooks

Megan Daley on why young readers need cosy spaces at home and at school – and how to create them

There is something undeniably enticing about a reading nook — a little corner dedicated to quiet moments with a good book. Whether it’s tucked under the stairs or under a couch (quite a popular spot in my school library), or in the corner of a classroom, creating a cosy reading space invites children to slow down and spend time with a book.

Reading nooks signal to children that reading quietly and comfortably is a valued part of everyday life and that books belong not just on shelves, but at the centre of our living and learning spaces.

In both homes and libraries, the environment we create silently communicates how we value reading and library design consultant Kevin Hennah encourages school library staff to look critically at their space.

If the space is fresh, well zoned, and visually stimulating, it tells readers they’re in for an adventure.

But how do we do that?