Sydney Library Removes Controversial Gaza Book Amid Community Complaint

Waverley Council’s library at Bondi Junction withdrew the newly released title *How to Sell a Genocide* after a complaint from a survivor of the December antisemitic attack on Bondi Beach, in which 15 people were killed. The book, published by Pluto Press, critiques what its author describes as U.S. media complicity in the Gaza conflict.

The Guardian

The complainant reported seeing the volume on the “new release / hot item” shelf and posted on Facebook that the display was distressing for survivors and bereaved families. The author, Adam Johnson, argues that labeling Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide reflects a mainstream view among human-rights scholars, not a fringe position.

The Guardian

A council spokesperson confirmed the removal for review, stating: “The book has been removed from library shelves for review, and council will further consider processes to ensure closer oversight of book selection.” — Waverley council spokesperson The council noted that book selection is outsourced to external curators rather than council officers, and it will consider tighter oversight of the acquisition process.

The Guardian

Johnson reacted that the objection centers on the title’s use of the word “genocide,” saying: “They seem to be objecting largely based on the title using the word ‘genocide’,” — Adam Johnson Critics argue the removal threatens the library’s role as a venue for diverse viewpoints. Nasser Mashni, president of the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network, emphasized the humanitarian scale of the conflict, stating: “Gaza’s population is facing engineered famine, and all of its hospitals and universities have been destroyed. The word genocide is not being used to offend anyone. It is being used because it describes the scale and intent of what is happening.” — Nasser Mashni He warned that banning books risks repeating historical patterns of censorship.

The Guardian

Earlier this year, the New South Wales government amended the state Library Act to shield libraries from campaigns to ban books. Opponents of the removal, including the senior commissioning editor at Pluto Press, contend that the work should remain widely accessible in public libraries, which are essential to a democratic society. The mayor, Will Nemesh, and special minister of state, John Graham, have been asked to explain how a permanent removal would align with the new legislation.

The Guardian