National Library of Scotland Reverses Ban on Gender-Critical Book

The National Library of Scotland initially excluded the gender-critical book 'The Women Who Wouldn’t Wheesht' from its Dear Library exhibition, despite it receiving twice the number of public nominations required for inclusion. The decision followed concerns raised by the library's LGBT+ staff network about potential harm to staff and relationships with marginalized communities, as well as fears that the book promoted hate speech. The exclusion sparked accusations of censorship and unlawful discrimination from human-rights groups, alongside public backlash from contributors such as JK Rowling. After a series of meetings involving the National Librarian Amina Shah, the Chair of the Board Sir Drummond Bone, and the book’s editors Susan Dalgety and Lucy Hunter Blackburn, the library reversed its decision and agreed to include the book in the exhibition. The editors welcomed the reversal and apology, expressing hope that it marks a turning point in public discourse on sex and gender identity in Scotland, emphasizing the importance of pluralism and constructive debate. The National Library highlighted its commitment to inclusivity and fostering respectful conversation through its collections.