Guide to Strengthening Your Library With Non-Fiction
With recent studies revealing a worrying decline in children's reading for pleasure in the UK, the need for diverse and engaging reading materials is more important than ever. As stated in The Reading Framework (DfE, July 2023):
“Access to the widest range of engaging, diverse texts, both fiction and non-fiction, that might capture the interest of adolescent readers is vital to keep older pupils reading as other interests compete for their attention."
When building or refreshing your school or classroom library, it’s easy to focus on fiction — but non-fiction books for all ages are just as vital. They support student learning, spark curiosity, and play a key role in encouraging reading for pleasure.
“Pupils must be offered a feast of books…For some pupils, the hook into reading may be non-fiction, for example, a book on climate change recommended by a science teacher. Importantly, they need to be offered books they might choose to read over and over again.”
The Reading Framework (DfE, July 2023)
Whether you're working within a tight budget or aiming to inspire a broader range of readers with bumper collections of value books, well-chosen non-fiction titles can transform your library collections both at school and, at home.
School Bargain Bookshop offers primary and secondary schools a cost-effective way to build non-fiction collections without breaking budgets.
Best Non-Fiction Books for Primary Schools
Best Non-Fiction Books for Secondary Schools
Why is Non-Fiction Essential in School and Home Libraries?
Non-fiction introduces children to the world beyond their immediate experience. From science and history to animals, space, and sport, non-fiction builds background knowledge, expands vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, supports critical thinking skills, and develops curriculum links. For reluctant or struggling readers, especially those who prefer facts, visuals, and real-world topics, non-fiction is often the ideal entry point into reading.
A healthy school library should offer a balance of fiction and non-fiction to cater to different interests and learning needs. Pupils should also have access to non-fiction books at home, especially those matched to their personal interests or school topics.
According to The Reading Framework (DfE, July 2023), library collections should include:
- non-fiction by subject and year group where books support the curriculum
- short ‘hi-lo’ non-fiction (which can be read by young readers or older readers who need extra practice)
Use the category links below to find the books you need to ensure your library offers a diverse, engaging, and curriculum-aligned selection of non-fiction for every age and ability.
Non-Fiction books for Primary School Library Collections
- Art, Design & Technology Books
- RE Books
Non-Fiction books for Secondary School Library Collections
How Does Non-Fiction Support Learning?
Non-fiction texts are key tools for developing research skills, supporting topic work, and helping pupils make cross-curricular connections. They also model key text features, such as glossaries, indexes, and captions, helping children become confident, independent learners.
“Listening to and talking about stories and non-fiction develops children’s vocabulary, because they meet words they would rarely hear or use in everyday speech.” Also, that “Reading across the curriculum contributes to the reading culture; pupils are motivated to read related fiction and non-fiction in their own time.”
The Reading Framework (DfE, July 223)
Non-Fiction for Primary Schools
Non-Fiction for Secondary Schools
What Makes a Brilliant Non-Fiction Library Section?
When selecting non-fiction titles, consider the following:
- Reading level: Choose book banded titles or those matched to Accelerated Reader™ levels for appropriate accessibility.
- Age-appropriate content: Select books that reflect the developmental stages and interests of your students.
- Visual appeal: High-quality illustrations, infographics, and engaging layouts are especially helpful for visual learners and reluctant readers.
- Current and Relevant: Ensure books are up to date and support the curriculum or match pupils’ interests. Remove outdated or unused books.
- Accessible for All: Include a range of text levels across all key stages so every child can access non-fiction reading.
- Curriculum-Linked: Cover key subjects and topics, particularly reviewing fast-changing fields like science and geography.
- Varied Formats: Include infographics, diaries, magazine-style layouts, narrative non-fiction, and more to maintain interest and give children the opportunity to encounter and interpret a wide range of text types.
- Information Literacy Skills: Include books with clear contents pages, glossaries, charts, and diagrams, to teach children how to navigate and process information.
Top Tip: Keep track of popular titles, display a 'Top Ten' list non-fiction books, and encourage peer recommendations to boost engagement.
Audit the non-fiction books in your school library collection and easily fill gaps using our Book Band or Accelerated Reader™ filters.
Explore Primary Non-Fiction Packs
Browse Secondary Non-Fiction Collections
Non-fiction titles that are book banded or levelled for Accelerated Reader™, can be much easier to integrate into your reading scheme.
Why Not Just Use the Internet?
The internet may have replaced the encyclopaedia, but it is no substitute for non-fiction books in schools. While the internet is fantastic when you know exactly what you're looking for, like finding out how volcanoes erupt or what causes the phases of the Moon, it’s far less effective for exploring a topic in depth.
Online information is often scattered across multiple websites, encouraging users to jump from link to link. This can leave young readers with a fragmented understanding and a confusing trail of sources. In contrast, well-crafted non-fiction books offer:
· Structured, topic-based exploration
· Age-appropriate and reliable content
· Better vocabulary support and comprehension
· Stronger information retention — especially through print reading
· A valuable alternative for pupils who don’t enjoy digital reading
Though high-quality digital resources can enhance learning, nothing compares to a well-stocked, engaging non-fiction library for fostering confident, curious readers.
Budget-Friendly Tips for Building Your Non-Fiction Collection
Looking to build your non-fiction collection without overspending? Try these cost-saving strategies:
- Shop through discount suppliers like the School Bargain Bookshop for best non-fiction books at budget-friendly prices — with prices starting from just £1.50 a book.
- Choose value topic packs or book banded collections to cover a range of reading levels and interests.
- Involve pupils in choosing titles —ownership boosts motivation and engagement.
Non-Fiction for Primary Schools
Non-Fiction for Secondary Schools
Final Thought:
Adding high-quality, engaging non-fiction to your school or classroom library isn't just about meeting curriculum needs, it’s about sparking curiosity, building knowledge, and promoting reading for pleasure in all its forms. The best non-fiction books don’t just inform — they inspire.
What to Read Next: A Guide to Supporting Struggling and Reluctant Readers — Unlock the joy of reading for every child with expert tips, practical strategies, and the best book collections to support struggling and reluctant readers at every school age.
