Recent investigations have uncovered a troubling trend in UK schools: the removal of LGBTQ+ books from library shelves following complaints from parents. According to research conducted by Index on Censorship, 53% of school library staff have been asked to take down books, often after just a single complaint. Alarmingly, in over half of these cases, the books were indeed removed.
The titles affected include well-known LGBTQ+ works such as This Book Is Gay by Juno Dawson and Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, among others. The removal of these books underscores a growing concern over the curtailment of diverse perspectives in educational environments. One librarian, who spoke anonymously, described the chilling impact of these requests, revealing that even entire collections were pulled after just one challenge.
The situation reflects a broader pattern of censorship reminiscent of the United States, where book bans—especially those with queer content—have been escalating. Authors like Juno Dawson, whose works are among the most censored, express concern that similar censorship is now seeping into the UK, mirroring actions across the Atlantic.
This trend raises significant questions about freedom of expression and the safeguarding of inclusive educational resources. As Stonewall emphasizes, access to LGBTQ+ literature in schools plays a crucial role in affirming young people’s identities. The removal of these books not only limits this representation but also sends a message that their experiences are less valid or worthy of discussion.
The broader implications of these actions are unsettling. As one librarian stated, “If it’s LGBTQ+ books today, what will be next?” The erosion of diverse viewpoints in education signals a troubling shift, one that requires urgent attention and action from educators, parents, and policymakers alike.
