A secondary school in Greater Manchester has ignited a debate regarding the role of artificial intelligence in education after staff used an AI chatbot to audit the school library's collection. The technology flagged approximately 200 books for removal, citing suitability concerns that allegedly encompassed classic literature and modern non-fiction alike.
According to reports from the freedom of expression charity Index on Censorship, the AI-generated analysis targeted titles ranging from George Orwell’s 1984 to Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight. The chatbot reportedly justified these recommendations by identifying themes such as "torture," "sexual coercion," and "mature romantic themes." Other works earmarked for removal included Michelle Obama’s autobiography and Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook.
Librarian Faces Safeguarding Investigation
The situation escalated when the school librarian objected to the mass removal. Following her refusal to ban the titles, she was subjected to an internal safeguarding investigation. Index reports that the librarian was accused of introducing inappropriate material and failing to adhere to safeguarding protocols.
The dispute reportedly began in November 2025 when the school’s headteacher ordered the removal of Men Who Hate Women by Laura Bates, a non-fiction title exploring incel culture. Despite the book being shelved in a section for older pupils, it was deemed a risk due to its exposure of misogynistic beliefs.
Professional Fallout and Industry Response
Faced with the investigation, the librarian resigned due to stress. However, the local council upheld the safeguarding complaint against her, a ruling that effectively bars her from future employment in schools.
Industry bodies have criticized the school's approach. Caroline Roche, chair of the School Libraries Group (SLG), stated that the intensity of the safeguarding process was "over the top" and had unjustly ruined the librarian's career. The SLG is currently supporting the former staff member as the broader implications of using AI for content moderation in educational settings continue to unfold.
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