Content Guidance

We want our library catalogue to be as inclusive as it can be. To do this, the language we use must be fair and representative.  

Language changes much faster than controlled vocabularies. These are the systems we use to store and surface library resources. It means that our item listings can contain outdated and potentially harmful phrases. This language could cause people harm and dissuade them from searching our collections, which is why we want to address it.   

We can change the wording used in our own descriptions, but we also provide access to many third-party resources. We cannot change the descriptions for these items. However, we will work with third-parties to inform them of improvements they should make.   

There may also be times where there is offensive language within a resource itself. However, we will not exclude, withdraw from availability, or restrict access to any material because it is controversial or might be judged offensive by some. Library Services are committed to promoting intellectual freedom. This means that potentially harmful language may be part of a wider critical debate or form the key elements of some areas of study. We will flag that these items may be offensive, but we cannot change them. This is in line with our Collections Policy. 

If you have found a resource that contains offensive or potentially harmful content, please fill in our Harmful Content reporting form.