A “fantastic” new nautically- themed library was officially unveiled last week after a revamp at Essendon Primary School.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: New library at Essendon schoolNew library at Essendon school (Image: Archant)

Parrots, portholes, desert islands, and books of course, can now all be found in the school’s library.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: New library at Essendon schoolNew library at Essendon school (Image: Archant)

Headteacher Barbara Young decided an upgrade was needed after Ofsted critised the old library saying it was not “inspiring or engaging with the children” enough.

Welwyn Hatfield Times: Author Freya North opens the libraryAuthor Freya North opens the library (Image: Archant)

Essendon School Association, the school’s governors, parents, pupils and villagers all helped raise money for the redecoration.

Mrs Young said on Friday, January 31: “This is the most marvellous vision brought to reality.

“The children went in the library this morning for the first time and it [their response] was magical.”

Best-selling author Freya North, who opened the library, described the new facilities as “fantastic”.

She said: “It is a great honour for me today to be able to open what is one of the best places for children to fall in love with books.

“I choose to write all of my books from libraries because they are special places where imagination can flourish and possibility is endless.”

Lesley Reith, chairman of the school’s governors, said: “We have had the most terrific day, it has been brilliant.

“The amazing thing is how the children responded to the project.

“They have been so enthusiastic and excited.

“We designed it like a journey, and the idea is that it takes them on a journey to enjoy reading.”