William Murdoch Primary School is proud to announce the official opening of its newly built and beautifully designed library, named in honour of Birmingham-born poet and author Benjamin Zephaniah.
The launch event will take place on Tuesday 18 November 2025 at 11am, marking a significant milestone in the school’s commitment to fostering a lifelong love of reading among its pupils.
Relocated to the heart of the school, the new library replaces the previous space with a vibrant, enchanted-themed environment that is already captivating students from Years 1 to 6, including those with special educational needs. The transformation was made possible through school funding and a successful competition entry with the Wall Art Company, which co-funded the project by providing bespoke wall art and furniture.
The library features a calming and imaginative design, with Benjamin Zephaniah’s poems and books integrated into the wall art. Giant book-themed door wraps, a central tree surrounded by seating zones, cosy corner reading areas, and window seats create a space that invites exploration and reflection. The library also offers a wider selection of books than ever before, encouraging children to read more and discover new worlds through literature.
“We’re absolutely delighted with the transformation of our school library,” said a spokesperson from William Murdoch Primary School. “The wall wraps have turned the space into something truly magical. Our children often say they feel transported into a different world as soon as they step inside. There’s a real buzz of excitement around the library, and everyone looks forward to their turn each week. The design team were outstanding, creative, professional, and genuinely collaborative. They listened carefully to our ideas and worked with us every step of the way to bring this vision to life. The result is a vibrant, inspiring environment that encourages imagination, curiosity, and a love of reading.”
The library will host regular book clubs, parent tours, and special events such as World Book Day celebrations, further embedding reading into the school’s culture.
Councillor Brown, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, praised the initiative: “This new library is a shining example of how schools can create spaces that truly inspire and support children’s development. It’s more than just a room with books – it’s a gateway to imagination, learning, and inclusion. I’m thrilled to see such creativity and dedication in bringing this vision to life, and I know it will have a lasting impact on the pupils of William Murdoch Primary School.”
The Benjamin Zephaniah Library is for school use only, but its impact will be felt far beyond its walls as it nurtures the next generation of readers, writers, and thinkers.
