A PRIMARY school library in Selkirk has received a major boost from the government to create its own book club.

Philiphaugh Community School has been awarded more than £7,000 to help encourage both pupils and parents to read more.

The School Library Improvement Fund supports activities which meet key education priorities, including literacy development, information and digital learning and health and wellbeing.

And all of the £7,183 grant will be used to develop its Brilliant Book Clubs – Happy Readers.

A total of 34 school library projects across Scotland have received a combined total of £272,00 in this round of funding.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: "School libraries have a vital part to play in supporting literacy and improving attainment right across the curriculum.

“We want libraries to be the vibrant hub of our schools and further investment of £272,000 through the School Library Improvement Fund will strengthen their role.

“I am very pleased to see recipients focussing on not only literacy but health and wellbeing, STEM, and digital learning and engagement with their wider community.”

A new funding round is set to open for applications on January 10, with £170,000 available for creative projects to enhance school library provision.