School Library Association

Tom says “I am very, very happy to be an SLA Patron. I have worked with school librarians for nearly 20 years and have seen how they change lives and give children a better chance, through finding them the right reading material and by simply being there. Librarians and the School Library Association are integral to the world of children’s books, and it is my privilege to help champion what they do.”

The School Library Association (SLA) supports schools nationwide in developing their library provision through advice, resources, and training, connecting school librarians with professional development opportunities and outstanding books and authors.

Tom says” I am delighted my new picture book War Dog is under the spotlight in the Winter issue of The School Librarian, landing on the doorsteps of members and subscribers in early December.”

FREE Live Lesson 21st Jan 2026

Kick start the National Year of Reading with a Live Lesson together. In this 45 minute online event, designed to be streamed into a classroom or school library, I will draw on my own reading journey and experience as an author to share inspiration and ideas for KS2 and KS3 children to connect their interests to books and read more about what they love. This is a free event, exclusively available to SLA members. Register now.

SLA CEO Victoria Dilly said: “Very few people understand how to engage children in reading like Tom Palmer does. Tom’s proven passion for getting books into the hands of all children, and his knowledge of the vital role school libraries and school librarians play in encouraging reading for pleasure make him a perfect Patron for the SLA. I am thrilled to be working with Tom as we continue our mission to ensure all children and young people can fulfil their potential through the school library.”

Jane Walker, Sales and Marketing Director at Barrington Stoke said, “Tom has been a hugely important author on the Barrington Stoke list for many years, with a special ability to teach those readers who perhaps need his books the most. We are excited for what can be achieved when such a dream partnership work together to amplify the role of school libraries in inspiring and encouraging all kinds of readers.”

Buy Books

Signed and dedicated copies of all my books are available personalised to order from my local independent children’s bookshop “The Thoughtful Spot” here.