Hong Kong's public libraries do not censor items to maintain free flow of information, the Leisure & Cultural Services Department says. It made the clarification today in response to media enquiries.

It said if the Obscene Articles Tribunal has classified any library item as Class II (Indecent), staff will remove it from the open library stock and place it in closed stacks.

In processing the loan of such an item, staff may request proof of age. If the reader is under 18 the loan will be refused.