Micah Ashford, from Oaks Park High School, was named UK pupil library assistant of the year at an awards ceremony in London.
The event, organised by the School Library Association (SLA) and the CILIP School Libraries Group (SLG), recognises the contribution made by pupils who volunteer in their school libraries.
The judges praised Micah’s “kind and empathetic approach” and his efforts to promote the library within the school community.
Micah said: “This award means a lot to me.
“I was very excited to be nominated – happiness, excitement, just all the positive emotions came over me all at once.
“I love working in the library because it allows me to access lots of knowledge and books, to meet new people and to connect with them and that’s very important because it develops friendship, kindness and compassion.
“My favourite thing about my school library is that it’s a nice space to meet new people.
“The library is a safe space and happy place in school.”
Alice Leggat, librarian at Oaks Park High School, said: “We are so proud of Micah for winning this award – he’s living proof of the power of building empathy through reading.
“To me, Micah is a walking advert for the importance of school libraries and what they should be.”
Micah received his award from comedian and author Russell Kane.
