QUESTIONS have been asked about the use of libraries for councillor advice surgeries.
It comes after Staffordshire County Council leader Cllr Martin Murray took to social media in June to state that Pride events would no longer be promoted in the county’s public libraries.
The decision was part of a review of the use of display space. The authority said that while the review took place, all displays that do not promote the core library offer or wider council services had been paused.
But Stafford Borough Council member Cllr Alec Sandiford has highlighted the use of library space for councillor surgeries, suggesting it is a contradiction in the administration’s approach to library spaces.
Cllr Sandiford said:
"If the argument is that Pride displays make libraries political spaces, then the administration must explain why holding council meetings or councillor surgeries in libraries does not.
"The leader of the council has himself held councillor surgeries at a library in Cannock.
"Residents will understandably question why a display celebrating Pride is considered political while political activity within libraries is apparently acceptable.”
A spokesman for Staffordshire County Council said:
"The current review is regarding the use of library display space.
"Advice to councillors regarding using library space to meet residents is clear. They can hold surgeries for their communities on library premises, but any material on site should not be branded or promoted politically."
More than 5,100 people signed an online petition calling for the authority "to reverse any policy that prevents libraries and other council services from displaying materials that recognise and celebrate LGBTQ+ communities and other protected groups during awareness and heritage months".
The petition added:
"Displays marking occasions such as LGBTQ+ History Month, Pride Month, Black History Month, Disability History Month, and other awareness events are not political statements; they are expressions of visibility, education, community engagement and equality."
Cllr Sandiford said:
"Libraries have always been places of learning, inclusion and community. Pride displays are not political party campaigns; they are about recognising members of our communities and ensuring people feel represented and welcome.
"If the administration genuinely believes themed displays should be removed in the name of neutrality, then residents deserve to know whether Carers Week displays, Armed Forces Week displays, Remembrance displays and poppy collections will also disappear.
"You cannot selectively decide that one particular group should no longer be recognised while continuing to support others."
Cllr Hayley Coles, deputy leader and cabinet member for communities and culture, said:
"Staffordshire’s libraries are for everyone. They give local people access to books, digital resources, advice, activities and council services, and they are increasingly becoming community hubs where people can learn, connect and get practical support.
"As part of that approach, we are applying a consistent approach across our libraries on how public display space is used. Displays will focus on the core library offer, local services, reading and learning.
"Our priority is to keep libraries welcoming, useful and accessible to everyone."
