A Sydney library has returned a controversial book to its shelves after the State Library of New South Wales intervened in the decision to remove it.
The book, titled How to Sell a Genocide, was temporarily withdrawn from a branch of the City of Sydney library network. The removal prompted an intervention from the state body, which said the decision had been made without proper process.
State library intervention
The State Library of New South Wales stepped in after the local library removed the title. The state body said the book should be restored while the matter was reviewed.
A spokesperson for the City of Sydney said the library had received the state library's advice and had returned the book to the shelves. The spokesperson said the council would review its internal processes to ensure future decisions followed the correct procedures.
Book's content and context
How to Sell a Genocide is a book that has drawn criticism and debate over its content. The title refers to the marketing of genocide, and the book has been described as a controversial work examining the role of public relations in conflicts.
The book's removal had sparked discussion about censorship and the role of libraries in providing access to a wide range of materials. The state library's intervention was seen as a move to uphold the principle of intellectual freedom.
Outcome and next steps
The book is now back on the library's shelves, and the City of Sydney has said it will conduct a review of its processes. The council has not indicated whether any further action will be taken regarding the book or the staff involved in the initial decision.
