Warwickshire libraries review finds no evidence of display problems

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 16:02 · Archive

A review of Warwickshire library displays found no evidence of inappropriate placements, but councillors plan new selection criteria.

A politically-led review of Warwickshire libraries has found 'no evidence' of inappropriate display placements, but Reform UK councillors are set to introduce new selection criteria anyway. The review was triggered in July after council leader Cllr George Finch alleged that Warwickshire County Council libraries had been 'promoting contested gender ideology'. He cited library displays celebrating Pride month in Rugby and what he described as 'books that shouldn't be read by children' being placed at 'children's height' in Kenilworth and Rugby.

The review, led by Reform UK cabinet members, visited 15 libraries between them and reviewed legal requirements, local library performance and comparisons with four other local authorities. It found that approximately half of the library portfolio had put up Pride displays. The review concluded that children's spaces in all venues were 'well managed, child friendly and appropriately designed' with 'no significant concerns' on safeguarding or the presentation of children's collections. Adult-themed displays were 'consistently located away from children's areas'.

However, the review's recommendations call for guidance on the content and positioning of book displays to be updated, 'particularly to cover sensitive topics and the location and content of displays near children's library areas'. The Reform UK cabinet will be asked to approve these recommendations at its meeting on 15 October.

How it is being reported

• Warwickshire libraries review finds no problems after concerns raised about displaysA preview of displays in Warwickshire libraries has found “no evidence” of inappropriate placements – but Reform UK is new selection criteria.Stratford Herald · 12 Oct, 15:53
• Warwickshire library review finds ‘no evidence’ of problems with displays – but still calls for changesA politically-led review of displays in Warwickshire libraries has found “no evidence” of inappropriate placement – but Reform UK councillors are set to introduce selection criteria.Leamington Courier · 12 Oct, 13:24

In this story: Warwickshire · Warwickshire County Council · George Finch · Reform UK · Rugby · Kenilworth

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