Relax in a Primary School Reading Cubby

Creating comfortable places to read can make a big difference to how pupils experience your primary school library. While some children may enjoy reading in an open area, others may prefer somewhere that feels a little more enclosed and separate from the rest of the room.

A school reading cubby can provide just that. With a comfortable place to sit and space to settle down with a book, a reading cubby can become a welcoming part of the library where pupils can spend time reading independently.

At StoryScape, we work with primary schools to create library environments that consider how children and staff use the space. Reading areas, furniture and shelving can all play a part in creating a library that feels comfortable, accessible and inviting.

What Is a School Reading Cubby?

A school reading cubby is a smaller, more enclosed reading space designed to give pupils somewhere comfortable to sit with a book.

Unlike a traditional reading area, a cubby can create a greater sense of personal space. It can help define a quieter area within the wider library while still keeping reading at the heart of the environment.

Reading cubbies can also add interest to a library. With thoughtful colours, shapes and materials, they can become a feature that helps give the space its own character.

Find out more about our cubbies, reading nooks and hideaways here

Why Add a Reading Cubby to Your School Library?

A reading cubby can offer pupils another way to use the library. Rather than having one type of seating or reading area, you can create different spaces that suit different preferences and activities.

Create a Comfortable Place to Read

Comfort is an important part of creating a reading environment where pupils want to spend time.

A reading cubby can provide a cosy place to settle down with a book, away from some of the activity of the wider library. Depending on the design, it can include comfortable seating and a more enclosed space that helps pupils feel settled.

Give Pupils a Quieter Space

Libraries can be busy places, particularly when several classes are using the space or pupils are moving between different activities.

A school reading cubby can introduce a quieter area within the wider library. Providing different types of reading spaces can also give pupils more choice in how they use the library. An open reading area might suit one child, while another may prefer the more enclosed feel of a cubby.

Add Character to Your School Library

Reading furniture can contribute to the overall look and feel of a school library as well as providing a practical place to sit.

A colourful or distinctive reading cubby can become a focal point within the room, adding personality without requiring every part of the library to be highly decorated.

When we work with schools, we consider how features such as furniture, shelving, colour and graphics can work together. The aim is to create an imaginative environment that feels appropriate for pupils across the primary age range.

Bring Your Reading Cubby into the Wider Library Design

A reading cubby is one part of the library, so it is worth considering how it works alongside the rest of the space.

You might place it near books and shelving so pupils can easily choose something to read, or use it as part of a wider reading area with different types of seating.

Our Reading Corners provide further ideas for creating comfortable areas where pupils can spend time with books, while our Library Furniture can help schools explore different ways to create flexible and welcoming spaces.

Accessible shelving can also make it easier for pupils to browse independently before settling down to read. Our Library Shelving is designed to support practical organisation and help make books easier for pupils to discover.

Create a Welcoming Space for Reading in Your Primary School Library

A school reading cubby can give pupils somewhere comfortable to relax with a book, while also adding character to the wider library environment.

The most effective reading spaces give children different options. Some may prefer to read in an open area, while others may enjoy having a quieter, more enclosed place to settle down.

Whether you are introducing a single reading cubby or considering how different areas of your library could work together, our team can help you explore ideas for your space. Our Primary School Library Design Service can help you plan a library around the needs of your pupils, staff and available space.