Birmingham teacher highlights the ‘power of patient reading’

Birmingham’s library has gone from being a modest space with only a handful of books to a thriving hub of creativity and learning.

Much of the transformation is down to St Andrew’s Healthcare’s teacher, Andrew Kane.

Based in Birmingham, Andrew first stepped into the room eight years ago and immediately decided he would pour his energy into bringing the space to life.

Andrew said: “I could see great potential and I knew I wanted the library to become a safe space for patients to visit so they could enjoy browsing the books, so I set to work. It’s been a real passion project of mine.”

Over the years, Andrew has worked tirelessly to champion the patients and grow the library, helping them extend their learning, confidence and love of reading.

He added: “Every single item in the library has been donated – including all the hundreds of books we now have. Staff, patients, members of the public, even local libraries have all donated to us. It’s amazing how the power of reading has united us all.”

Today, the library boasts a large stock of DVDs, shelves full of books, and is co‑managed with a patient volunteer. “It’s become something people genuinely value,” Andrew said.

Before joining the charity, Andrew spent 20 years in further education at Solihull College and even turned down a PhD offer to work at St Andrew’s.

“I love my job,” he said. “I can see the impact of it every day.”

One of his proudest achievements is the patient‑led newsletter, which Andrew describes as “more than a publication - it’s a therapeutic tool.”

Writing helps patients express themselves, process emotions and build confidence. Reading offers escape, comfort and connection. Together, they create a safe space for reflection and growth - and for many patients, it is the first time they have ever seen their words in print.

Andrew said: “I bang the drum loudly. Education is a protective factor. If we can get education into our patients’ lives, it can genuinely transform them.”