Libraries say no to "Fifty Shades of Grey"

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L James has stormed the nation. It’s one of the most popular books out there but you won't find it at libraries in Mobile.

The novel is described as steamy by some and raunchy by others.

Wednesday "Fifty Shades of Grey," an erotic romance novel, was at the top of the New York Best Sellers List but not on the shelves of any of the Mobile County Public Libraries.

Amber Guy with the Mobile Public Library said they will not be ordering the book.

" Fifty Shades of Grey doesn't fit our selection criteria because it’s classified as erotica," said Guy.

There is no denying the book pushes the envelope, but that’s not the only reason Guy said the library made the choice. They said it’s also due to the quality.

"We always make sure it has positive reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and Library Journal and F ifty Shades of Grey does not,” said Guy.

You can still find the books on the shelves of local books stores and electronically but what if you can't afford it?

Daphanie White says the library is choosing what they can and can’t read.

"It should be left up to the public. I hope they change their decision," said White.

Guy says they might.

"This may be a sign that peoples standard of what they consider acceptable is changing so if that's the case and 50 shades of grey spawns other series of books that are similar we may reevaluate our selection criteria," said Guy.

Regardless, the people have spoken and "Fifty Shades of Grey" has sold more than 3 million copies and spiced up the lives of women everywhere.

Three other counties have either decided not to carry the book, or taken it off the shelves.