Shock after adult device found at family event

Two councilllors complain

Shock has been expressed that models of genitalia and a condom-fitting device were among the items on display in a Devon library as a scheduled family-friendly library event took place.

Two local politicians who attended the event have raised formal safeguarding concerns over displayed items they have dubbed “wholly inappropriate” for an event where young children were due to be present.

Councillors Ed Hill and Angi Nash, who are both former members of Reform UK but are now independents, have complained about aspects of the Young Person’s Day event at Exeter Library, which was part of the Out There Queer Fest, and was officially supported by Libraries Unlimited, Queer Diary and The Intercom Trust.

“Children as young as 3 were present,” said Cllr Hill. “On one stall there were anatomical models of male and female genitalia, a condom-fitting device, condoms, and a penis-girth measuring card displayed openly.

“A performer on stage shouted an obscenity in front of the audience, and music exceeded 80 decibels (dB), far above the 70 dB safe limit for children.

“Young children were sat just feet away from the speakers colouring in.”

The councillors also noted that several LGBTQ+ outreach stalls were promoting services for ages 5 to 25, and one described their support as for “any age really,” raising further questions about age-appropriate safeguarding oversight.

The pair have written to Devon County Council, Libraries Unlimited, and Children & Family Health Devon (NHS) requesting a formal safeguarding review and an explanation of how the event was risk-assessed.

“This isn’t about inclusion or diversity — it’s about safeguarding,” said Cllr Nash.

“Any event held in a public library must ensure the environment and materials are suitable for the ages attending, and meet the legal duty to protect children from harm.”

Alex Kittow, chief executive of Libraries Unlimited said the Young Person’s Day 2025 event was “designed to foster creativity, connection, and wellbeing”, while creating a “safe space for young people”.

“Several senior staff were present throughout the day due to prior threats of protest and disruption from anti-LGBTQIA+ groups,” Mr Kittow said.

“Despite this, the event was vibrant, friendly, and well-attended, with attendees expressing appreciation for the inclusive atmosphere.

“Among the many stalls was one focused on sexual health, located in the entrance foyer, far away from the children’s library.

“This stall provided information and support around safe sex, with the aim of reducing stigma and promoting public health.

“It was not designed to promote sexual activity, but to offer a safe space for those with questions or concerns. The anatomical models referenced were standard educational tools, not graphic or explicit in nature.”

Mr Kittow acknowledged that at the open mic part of the event, library staff did “witness a nervous young person who was anxious about going on stage inadvertently swear”.

“But they apologised straight away,” he said.

“Also, sound levels were monitored throughout the day, and we are reviewing the concerns raised. As with all events we will review, reflect and learn.”

Mr Kittow added the event had followed a successful format from last year, and was delivered with Intercom Trust, as part of Exeter’s wider programme of inclusive community events.

“We remain committed to libraries remaining welcoming spaces for all,” he added.