Julius C. Jefferson Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Julius C. Jefferson Jr.
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| President of the American Library Association | |
| In office 2020–2021 |
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| Preceded by | Wanda Kay Brown |
| Succeeded by | Patty Wong |
| President of the Freedom to Read Foundation | |
| In office 2013–2016 |
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| Preceded by | Candace D. Morgan |
| Succeeded by | Martin Garnar |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 22, 1968 United States |
| Education | |
| Occupation | Librarian |
Julius C. Jefferson Jr. (born July 22, 1968) is an American librarian. He served as the president of the American Library Association (ALA) from 2020 to 2021. In 2022, President Joe Biden appointed him to an important board. This board is called the National Museum and Library Services Board. It helps guide the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The IMLS supports museums and libraries across the United States.
Jefferson also works as a section head at the Congressional Research Service. This is part of the famous Library of Congress. From 2013 to 2016, he was the president of the Freedom to Read Foundation.
Jefferson was born in Washington, D.C.. His family had been involved with libraries for generations. His father worked at the National Archives and Records Administration. His mother was a specialist at the ALA. Julius first wanted to be a drummer for the band Earth, Wind & Fire. But he later found his passion for libraries. He was inspired by Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a famous historian and librarian. Jefferson became a true book lover, also known as a bibliophile.
He earned his history degree from Howard University. Later, he got his master's degree in library science from the University of Maryland. He has also been a member of the Executive Board of the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. He led the District of Columbia Library Association as president.
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Leading the American Library Association
Julius Jefferson Jr. made history as the first ALA president to have a virtual presidency. This happened because of the Covid-19 pandemic. During his time as president, he worked to connect libraries and communities. He started a program called "Holding Space: A national conversation series with libraries." This was a virtual tour across the country. It showed how libraries are creative and important. It also encouraged people to support libraries.
Before becoming president, Jefferson held many roles at the ALA. He served on the Executive Board and the Council. He also led the Intellectual Freedom Committee. In this role, he started the Intellectual Freedom Summer School. This program helped people learn about the importance of free access to information.
Working with Libraries Worldwide
Jefferson is also the Chair of the North America Regional Division for the International Federation of Library Associations (IFLA). IFLA is a global organization for libraries. In this role, he speaks up for libraries in North America. He helps decide what is most important for libraries in Canada and the United States. He also creates plans to help them.
Recognized for His Work
Julius Jefferson Jr. has received several awards for his dedication.
Joseph W. Lippincott Award
In 2023, he received the Joseph W. Lippincott Award. This award recognized his work in helping other librarians. It also honored his commitment to fairness, variety, and inclusion (EDI). He was praised for his leadership, especially during the pandemic.
Distinguished Terrapin Award
The University of Maryland iSchool honored him in 2021. He received the Distinguished Terrapin Award. This award is given to people who do excellent work in their field. It also recognizes those who help their communities.
Ainsworth Rand Spofford President's Award
In 2019, the District of Columbia Library Association gave him the Ainsworth Rand Spofford President's Award.
American Library Association Equality Award
Also in 2019, Jefferson received the American Library Association Equality Award. This award recognized his strong focus on diversity and inclusion. He especially worked to support the rights of library workers who are often underrepresented.
He has also received awards from the Black Caucus of the American Library Association. These include the Outstanding Contribution to Publishing Award in 2013 and the Appreciation Award in 2010.
