Library services in Scotland are keeping David Walliams' children's books on their shelves despite allegations of sexual assault and harassment made against the author. OnFife, which runs library services in the area, and Midlothian Council have both said they have no plans to remove his titles.
OnFife monitoring situation
OnFife stated it does not intend to remove the books yet and is currently "monitoring the situation." A spokesperson for OnFife said: "We recognise that allegations of sexual misconduct are serious and that some readers and families may have concerns about works by David Walliams being available through libraries. Libraries exist to provide access to a broad range of published works and decisions about stock are taken in line with professional standards, relevant legislation and our stock management policies."
The spokesperson added: "We are monitoring the situation and are in contact with the relevant sector body the Scottish Library and Information Council, publishers and suppliers should any guidance emerge that would require us to review our position." Midlothian Council did not disclose further information, but when asked if it would remove Walliams' books from schools and libraries, a spokesperson said: "No."
Allegations and school removals
Walliams, 55, is alleged to have targeted multiple women over a 20-year period, including two when they were aged 15. The allegations were published by the Guardian and ITV News on Tuesday after Walliams tried to obtain an injunction to prevent their reporting. One woman said she met Walliams at a fan event when she was 15 and alleged that by the time she was 17, the pair were having sex. She claimed Walliams offered her work experience, which later fell through. Another woman claims she met him on MySpace when she was 15, and alleges he lifted up her top at his home in London, pulled down her bra and sucked her breasts.
Dozens of schools across the UK have already removed his novels following the publication of the allegations. Dawn Brennan, chief executive of gender-based violence charity Wise Women, called both organisations to reconsider their moves. She told the Record: "David Walliams has not been convicted of a crime, but while there are questions around his suitability to be in the public eye, anyone providing services within local council or for local authorities has the duty to ensure they are promoting the right ethics. If questions are emerging about Walliams having access to children while he wrote children's books, they should at least suspend his books until the allegations are resolved."
Author's career and denial
Walliams is one of the UK's best-selling children's authors, with novels inspired by Roald Dahl that blend comedy with themes of family, friendship and celebrating outsiders. Eight of his novels have been adapted into TV films, primarily airing as one-off BBC One festive specials. In December last year, he was dropped from the Waterstones Children's Book Festival in Dundee and was also dropped by his publisher, HarperCollins. Walliams has strongly denied the allegations.
