1. We’re thrilled to announce that Archie, a pupil from Woodthorpe Primary School, has won a bespoke library for his school thanks to his imaginative vision of a dream reading space. The competition was a huge success, igniting creativity in classrooms nationwide. A remarkable 1,901 entries were submitted, each one showcasing the extraordinary imagination of children passionate about reading. 

    In addition, Portakabin and the judging panel were so impressed by the quality and thoughtfulness of submissions, that a second winner was selected – Zaine, from Rowan Tree Primary, a specialist provision school. Like Woodthorpe Primary School, Rowan Tree Primary will also receive a bespoke modular library free of charge. 

    With 2026 being the National Year of Reading, the Inspiring Libraries competition encouraged pupils and teachers to imagine what modern, purpose-built reading spaces could be, celebrating creativity while sparking important conversations about how thoughtfully designed modular libraries can boost literacy, wellbeing and inclusion. 

  2. One of the external judges, Kim O'Brien, Founder of Educate Awards, explained, “It was so hard to pick an overall winner because each design was clever, imaginative, and deserving of special praise. Every child who entered the Portakabin Inspiring Libraries Competition should be proud of what they created.”   

    The structure and thoughtfulness of Archie’s Eco Library really stood out to our judges. The sustainable approach, including solar panels and a living wall, showed real consideration, alongside a desire to bring the outside in. Features such as grass-effect flooring, cloud-shaped lights and the natural, soft shapes of the bookshelves demonstrated a very architectural way of thinking. 

  3. Zaine's inclusive library idea impressed the judges by incorporating a sensory walk, colourful lights, bean bags and a soft play area. 

    Archie and Zaine’s designs will now be used as inspiration when Portakabin brings their modular libraries to life through purpose-built, modular buildings and school facilities, creating an inspiring library environment for their schools. 

    Portakabin launched this UK‑wide initiative in direct support of the government’s pledge to ensure every primary school has access to a bespoke library space. With 1,700 primary schools still without a library, the competition aims to highlight how modular buildings can play a vital role in addressing this gap. The winning schools will receive a fully equipped modular library building, free of charge for 12 months. 

  4. “We know that many schools are facing challenges around space and resources,” said Dan Ibbetson, CEO of Portakabin. “Through Inspiring Libraries, we want to show how thoughtful design can make reading more engaging and inclusive for every child. By collaborating with schools, we hope to spark conversations about the importance of reading spaces and how they can transform the learning experience.” 

    Studies consistently link access to welcoming, purpose-built libraries with improvements in children’s literacy, wellbeing and overall development. New research from the Literacy Trust shows that one in seven primary schools in the UK does not have a library, a figure rising to one in four in disadvantaged areas. 

    Stay tuned to see these libraries come to life! Well done Archie and Zaine!