Sweden is poised to act as an international hub for research on banned literature – a place where researchers can expect reliable information about bans and censorship around the world. This is a statement issued by the National Library of Sweden (Kungliga biblioteket, KB) in a new report to the government proposing augmented resources for a number of already successful initiatives.
The report presents the findings of a government-commissioned assignment concerning access to banned and censored literature for research purposes. It analyses the field from historical, legal, and contemporary perspectives and maps relevant research and initiatives in Sweden and internationally. The report concludes that researchers primarily require access to quality-assured metadata on censorship practices, rather than to the works themselves. The Dawit Isaak Database of Censorship (Didoc) is highlighted as a key research infrastructure, and the report proposes government investment in metadata development, collaborative frameworks, and a national resource library.