The leader of Essex County Council, Peter Harris, has asserted that some library displays celebrating Pride Month included "inappropriate" books, potentially causing distress to parents. Mr Harris, who leads the Reform UK administration, acknowledged "concerns about certain elements" within these displays, although he did not specify which particular items he found objectionable when questioned by the BBC.
This development follows earlier instructions issued to library staff in June, at the beginning of Pride Month, advising them not to promote events unrelated to their day-to-day activities. Despite this directive, numerous libraries, including branches in Chelmsford, Writtle, and Harlow, proceeded to host dedicated Pride displays. The council subsequently appeared to soften its stance, informing the BBC that promotions in libraries could continue, after an initial move by leading cabinet member Chris Hossack had suggested a broader halt to event promotions.
The administration's response to the Pride displays has drawn sharp criticism from opposition councillors. Liberal Democrat councillor David King described the council's reaction as "chilling," particularly for those who view Pride as integral to their sense of belonging and inclusion. Similarly, opposition leader Lee Scott of the Conservative group stated that no complaints had ever been received regarding library promotions during his party's tenure running the council. However, Mr Harris maintains that his decision is supported by "countless emails and countless calls from residents."
The controversy is set to be a key topic at the next full council meeting on Tuesday, 16 July 2026. A protest against what organisers have termed a "diversity ban" is scheduled to take place outside County Hall before the meeting, organised by Save Our Libraries Essex. Conservative, Liberal Democrat, and Labour councillors are expected to join the demonstration, where petitions bearing thousands of signatures are also due to be handed in.
Mr Harris emphasised that the council's policy for libraries remains under review, stating, "Our libraries should represent and display things for all residents and not just for something that might be deemed as ideological and something that is potentially upsetting for parents of children." He added that instructions for libraries "need to be clarified" to ensure all displays are "age appropriate," while confirming that promotions for events like International Women's Day, Black History Month, and Windrush Day could continue.