PEN Denver, in collaboration with The Denver Press Club, presents Salon: On Censorship.
Join us for a group discussion with James LaRue, the former Executive Director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and the Freedom to Read Foundation, for “On Censorship: A Public Librarian Examines Cancel Culture in the US.” His recently published book of the same title (published by Fulcrum in September 2023) looks at the underlying causes of censorship and what citizens ought to do about it.
Please register in advance, as attendance will be limited.
About the Host
James LaRue has appeared on National Public Radio, been quoted and highlighted in newspapers (the Denver Post, New York Times, the Washington Post, Wall Street Journal), magazines (Forbes, Governing), and has hosted an author interview cable TV program. A newspaper columnist for over two decades, he also wrote The New Inquisition: Understanding and Managing Intellectual Freedom Challenges (Libraries Unlimited, 2007), and On Censorship: A Public Librarian Examines Cancel Culture in the US (Fulcrum Publishing, 2023). A frequent presenter for library associations, regional workshops, and library staff days, Jamie has also served as a facilitator, panelist, moderator, and master of ceremonies for everything from debates to awards dinners.
From 1990 to 2014, he was director of the Douglas County (Colorado) Libraries, widely known as one of the nation’s most successful and innovative public libraries. Awards include:
- Colorado Librarian of the Year (1998)
- Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce’s Business Person of the Year (2003)
- Julie J. Boucher (boo-SHAY) Award for Intellectual Freedom (2007)
- Colorado Association of Libraries’ Career Achievement Award (2013).
- Renaming of the Highlands Ranch Library (Douglas County, CO) to the James H. LaRue Library (2013)
In 2014, he embarked on a career of writing, speaking, teaching, and consulting. From January 2016 to November 2018, LaRue was Executive Director of both the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom and the Freedom to Read Foundation. In 2019, he returned to independent consulting. As of May 2022, he has been the Executive Director of the Garfield County (Colorado) Public Library District.