In Kent, England, a local politician from Reform UK called Linden Kemkaran said transgender books were taken out from children’s library sections.
She called it a “victory for common sense.” But the council said they only moved one adult book related to transgender issues to a spot where kids usually don’t go.
What Happened
Linden Kemkaran posted on social media that all transgender‑related books were removed from children’s sections of Kent County Council libraries.
She said it was done right away. But the council clarified that just one book, meant for adults, was relocated. No books meant specifically for children were removed.
Which Book Was Moved
The book was The Autistic Trans Guide to Life by Yenn Purkis and Wenn Lawson. The council explained that it was originally on a display near the main entrance—where children could easily pick it up. Because it was aimed at adults, they moved it to a part of the library children rarely visit.
Reactions from Others
Labour MP Tristian Osbourne said saying books were removed was an example of “gender baiting” and unfair to LGBT people.
Steven Pullen from Swale Pride said the move made trans and LGBT people feel unwelcome and unsafe. He described it as “deeply upsetting.”
Erin Strawbridge from Folkestone Bookshop, which sells LGBT books, noticed this trend. On BBC Radio Kent she said censoring sends a message that LGBT kids aren’t safe in Kent: “It just pushes kids into the closet.”
Council’s Response
A council spokesperson stated that they always make sure adult‑targeted books are in areas away from children, based on library rules and feedback from a visitor. They moved the book because a resident pointed out it was in the wrong section.
Kent County Council manages 99 libraries and 5 mobile library vans, all using systems to decide if a book is for children or adults.
Reform UK’s Position
Paul Webb, another Reform UK leader, said the book was moved after a concerned person spoke up. He agreed that children should be kept away from content that might confuse them, just like how kids are protected from alcohol or cigarettes.
Webb said the council might need to make an “impact assessment” before displaying such books for children in the first place. Kemkaran also said teaching children that they are “in the wrong body” is “wrong and simply unacceptable.”
Analysis
It’s clear there was a misunderstanding. The public statement made it seem like many books had been removed. But the council confirms that only one adult book was moved, and no children’s books were affected.
The disagreement comes from how much was said and how fast on social media, rather than an official council statement.
