A controversial book is back on the library shelves in Brevard County.
Earlier this month, we first told you about the library's decision to pull copies of the erotic novel, "Fifty Shades of Grey."
Library directors said the book was too obscene, but the American Civil Liberties Union cried censorship and asked county commissioners to reconsider.
A library spokesman says the books were brought back because people kept asking for copies. An estimated 200 plus people were on the waiting list to check out a copy.
Below is the full statement from the county:
"The Brevard County Library System will return “Fifty Shades of Grey” to its library shelves.
The decision is in response to public demand, but also comes after considerable review and consideration by the library system. In all, 19 books from the “Fifty Shades of Grey” trilogy that were previously available will once again be available through the library system, according to Library Services Director Cathy Schweinsberg.
Earlier this month, a decision was made to pull “Fifty Shades of Grey” from our libraries as a result of published reviews and our own initial analysis of the book and its controversial content. Since then, we have begun a review of our selection criteria and that review continues even as the decision has been made to supply the book in response to requests by county residents."
“We have always stood against censorship,” Schweinsberg said. “We have a long history of standing against censorship and that continues to be a priority for this library system.”
The books are available effective immediately.
Library users said making the book available again was the right call.
"We have a choice as part of being free. Yes, freedom of speech," said library patron Cathy Bryne.
Another man said the issue put a black eye on the county.
Brevard library officials said they stand against censorship and it continues to be a priority.