Essex libraries to keep David Walliams books despite allegations

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 12 Nov, 17:33 · Archive

Essex County Council has no current plans to remove David Walliams' books from its libraries despite sexual misconduct allegations against him.

Essex County Council has said it has no current plans to remove David Walliams' books from its libraries in response to recent allegations of sexual misconduct against the author. A joint investigation by The Guardian and ITV News revealed allegations that Walliams leveraged his fame and influence to pursue teenagers and young women for sex dating back to 2003. He is also accused of inappropriate conduct and sexual harassment at Britain's Got Talent and at HarperCollins, his publisher. Walliams denies all allegations, saying he is not a sexual predator and has not broken the law.

A spokesperson for Essex County Council said the council follows established professional and ethical principles when managing its collections. 'Our starting point is that lawful books should remain available to readers; the presence of a book in our libraries does not mean Essex County Council endorses an author's views or conduct,' the spokesperson said. The council stressed it keeps all library stock under regular review, assessing customer demand, condition, relevance and value for money.

The council noted that demand for Walliams' books has fallen significantly in recent years. This means the number of copies may reduce naturally over time as older stock is replaced by newer and more popular titles. EssexLive reports that if Walliams were to be charged with or convicted of a crime in the future, the policy could change.

The decision contrasts with action taken by other organisations. Publisher HarperCollins dropped Walliams in December 2025 and decided not to publish any new titles by him. The BBC said it is removing content featuring and written by Walliams, including Little Britain, whilst a review of his material is underway.

Essex libraries to keep David Walliams books despite allegations — Image: Colchester Gazette

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How it is being reported

Will David Walliams' books stay on Essex library shelves? - Council issue updateEssex County Council has issued an update on whether David Walliams' books will remain on library shelves.Colchester Gazette · 12 Nov, 11:00
Will David Walliams' books stay on Essex library shelves? - Council issue updateEssex County Council has issued an update on whether David Walliams' books will remain on library shelves.Brentwood Guardian · 12 Nov, 11:00
Will David Walliams' books stay on Essex library shelves? - Council issue updateEssex County Council has issued an update on whether David Walliams' books will remain on library shelves.Echo (Basildon) · 12 Nov, 10:44
Essex libraries currently have 'no active policy' to remove David Walliams booksThis may change if Walliams is charged or convicted of a crimeEssexLive · 12 Nov, 07:58

In this story: David Walliams · Essex County Council · The Guardian · ITV News · HarperCollins · BBC · Britain's Got Talent · Essex

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