At Lancaster University English literature students have requested that trigger warnings be added to texts that include distressing passages. Claudia Hammond examines.

This free course provides an introduction to school librarianship. The course is designed to develop learners’ confidence and skills in delivering a library service in schools. It could be of use to librarians with little or no knowledge as well as those with experience who are looking to upskill.

It is widely recognised that supporting children to become capable and engaged readers plays an important role in their future success. Reading empowers; it facilitates education and employment, and it enriches one’s personal life and growth. Learning to read is therefore a key goal of primary or elementary education, and high-quality literacy instruction is fundamental to any literacy curriculum. An effective literacy curriculum not only teaches children how to read, it also inspires them to want to read.

Developing the skill to read and the will to read are interrelated, however, this course focuses on the latter; it is an exploration of Reading for Pleasure and its significance for children’s lives and development. You will consider current research, debates and challenges that impact on children’s reading and gain knowledge and strategies to help you promote reader engagement across schools, homes and communities.

Donatien Alphonse François, better known as The Marquis de Sade, is infamous throughout literature and popular culture for a life and body of work that pushed boundaries. Literally synonymous with sexual and violent excess, his reputation as a writer is often clouded by the extreme nature of his work. In a series of lively and engaging discussions, Alex Barber, Angelica Goodden and Timo Airaksinen re-assess both the man and his writing in social, historical and literary contexts, providing an insight into an often-misunderstood figure with much to say about the culture that produced him. This material forms part of The Open University course A207 From Enlightenment to Romanticism c.1780-1830.

Go on an adventure with Swallows and Amazons as you make a map and set sail for Wild Cat Island.

Hear about the children's books which inspired Swallows and Amazons.

Take a closer look at the manuscript of Cider with Rosie.

Go on an adventure with Confessions of an English Opium Eater as you confess yourself and explore Thomas De Quincey’s Edinburgh.