North Ayrshire and Arran MP Patricia Gibson admits she was left “starstruck” after meeting a distinguished author.

The SNP MP met with the School Library Association at Westminster to showcase her support for the vital facilities.

The former English teacher of 23 years admits she was surprised to bump into distinguished children’s author and former Children’s Laureate, Michael Rosen, who was lending his support too.

She said: “Michael agrees that a well-resourced school library with a professionally qualified librarian is integral to efforts to drive up literacy and attainment across the board.

“In school libraries, pupils can access a range of resources, develop their research skills, promote independent learning and foster and support the sheer joy of reading for pleasure.

“This has a direct impact on attainment in all areas of the curriculum, but also fostering imagination, empathy as well as a whole range of other benefits.”