Wigan Council has insisted its libraries are "open spaces" after an Independent borough councillor raised objections to an upcoming one-day exhibition at Wigan Library which the service describes as an opportunity to "explore Islam" and "celebrate Islamic culture and traditions".
What is planned and why it prompted complaint
The free event is scheduled for Saturday 15 August, between 10am and 2pm. Promotional material from the library service describes a family-oriented programme including henna painting, interactive activities such as word hunts, and a "Try Your Hijab" station, along with information stands on beliefs and contributions to science.
Independent councillor Maureen O’Bern, who represents Ince, published an enquiry to the council after reporting what she said were "numerous complaints" about the event. In her statements she questioned whether public libraries should be seen to be "promoting any religions or political parties" and asked if equivalent events would be organised for other faiths.
“I personally do not think public libraries should be promoting any religions or political parties.”
Council response and clarifications
Wigan Council said that its libraries are used by a wide range of community and faith groups and that it is "proud to host groups, events and sessions by lots of different community and faith groups". The authority also made clear that no council funding has been put towards the event.
The library's Instagram publicity invites residents to "drop in" and describes the day as intended to foster "meaningful conversations" and to "build bridges of understanding and unity."
- Date: Saturday 15 August
- Time: 10am–2pm
- Location: Wigan Library
- Cost: Free (no council funding reported)
Context and local implications
Libraries in Wigan operate as civic spaces for community activity. Events which explore faith, culture and heritage are commonly presented by public libraries across the UK as part of their outreach and learning remit. The exchange here highlights tensions that can arise when elected representatives, residents and council services disagree about the role of public institutions in hosting faith-related activities.
For residents wondering how to raise concerns or enquire further, the council's usual channels for queries about library events remain the first point of contact. The published publicity suggests the organisers expect the event to be family-friendly and informational rather than a faith service.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Explore Islam exhibition |
| Date & time | Saturday 15 August, 10am–2pm |
| Venue | Wigan Library |
| Funding | No council funding reported |
The conversation is likely to continue locally as the event approaches. For now the council has reiterated its position that libraries are inclusive community spaces and welcomed a range of groups to use them.
