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# New policy drawn up for local libraries following Pride display controversy
- URL: https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/new-policy-drawn-up-for-local-libraries-following-pride-display-controversy/
- Published: 2026-10-14T15:35:35.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-14T15:36:01.000Z
- Description: Staffordshire County Council says new guidance will keep sites "neutral, effective and efficient"
- Author: Lichfield Live
- Tags: Politics, News, Burntwood, Shenstone

A POLICY setting out how libraries can be used has been launched just months after Pride displays were blocked earlier this year.

Staffordshire County Council venues had been issued with guidance at the time which the authority said was about "applying a consistent approach" on how public display space was used – and insisted it remained focused on keeping libraries "welcoming, useful and accessible to everyone".

Now a new Staffordshire Libraries Displays, Events and Activities Policy has been drawn up to outline how sites can be used in future.

[ ](#) 

Cllr Hayley Coles, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and culture at the county council, said:

> "Staffordshire Libraries are for everyone. They are places where people can borrow books, find information, get advice, take part in activities and access council and partner services.   
>  
> "Libraries are shared spaces used by people with many different experiences, views and beliefs.  
>  
> "The policy aims to keep them neutral, effective and efficient, while prioritising information and advice that has the biggest impact for residents — from help with the cost of living, jobs and health, to improving literacy and encouraging a love of books."

The decision not to permit displays during Pride month saw eight MPs – [including Lichfield's Dave Robertson and Tamworth's Sarah Edwards](https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/mps-call-for-reassurances-over-pride-displays-and-activities-at-local-libraries/) – raise concerns.

Lichfield Pride organisers [also questioned the decision not to allow displays](https://lichfieldlive.co.uk/mps-call-for-reassurances-over-pride-displays-and-activities-at-local-libraries/) in June. They said:

> *"Libraries are places of learning, understanding and discovery. For many LGBTQ+ people, particularly young people, seeing themselves represented in public spaces can be incredibly important. It sends a powerful message that they are welcome, they belong and they matter."*

Cllr Coles said it was important that all voices were heard – and said no books or library materials had been removed:

> "I recognise this subject has generated strong views, particularly following the pause on discretionary displays while the review was undertaken.  
>  
> "Some residents and stakeholders support a more consistent focus on the core library offer, while others have concerns that some groups may feel excluded.  
>  
> "The views of all Staffordshire residents matter and will be considered through the Community Impact "Assessment and the formal democratic decision-making process, including public scrutiny and cabinet.” 

The draft policy will be considered at a meeting of the scrutiny committee on 22nd October 2026 before a cabinet decision is expected at the meeting on 18th November 2026.

People can [read the draft policy on the county council’s website](https://staffordshire.moderngov.co.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=1286&MId=18175&ref=lichfieldlive.co.uk). 

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