There are reasons for removing items from libraries. Most of which involve the item in question no longer being of utility to the community served by the library.
“New discoveries have outmoded the understanding of the universe contained in this astronomy textbook.” is a valid reason to discard an older volume (or move it to special collections in the case of books that have historical significance).
“This book is worn out beyond our ability to repair” is another. Ideally, it would involve replacing the book.
Hell, even “We thought this book would be popular but no one checked it out. Oops. Let’s free up space for something the patrons are interested in reading.” Is a perfectly valid reason.
“Some bigot doesn’t want anyone to read this book” will never be a valid reason.
Isn’t removing a book for a library half of its business plan?
Depends on the library. Besides, that is purposeful removal.
There are reasons for removing items from libraries. Most of which involve the item in question no longer being of utility to the community served by the library.
“New discoveries have outmoded the understanding of the universe contained in this astronomy textbook.” is a valid reason to discard an older volume (or move it to special collections in the case of books that have historical significance).
“This book is worn out beyond our ability to repair” is another. Ideally, it would involve replacing the book.
Hell, even “We thought this book would be popular but no one checked it out. Oops. Let’s free up space for something the patrons are interested in reading.” Is a perfectly valid reason.
“Some bigot doesn’t want anyone to read this book” will never be a valid reason.
Well libraries lens then have the book returned.