My Heart Gets Heavier….

This past weekend an icon within our profession, Judith Krug, passed away from a battle with cancer. Judith’s name was synonymous with intellectual freedom. As one mutual friend who is also champion of intellectual freedom wrote:

“I feel like a part of me is gone never to return. She was my inspiration, my dear friend, and impetus to do much of what I did in the area of intellectual freedom. She was always there when I needed prodding and had questions……..She pushed me when I would become discouraged, always with a smile…….I will forever be thankful for her helping me to build my philosophy of professionalism and First Amendment rights. She was indeed a godsend to the library world and to me personally. I sincerely mourn with her family in the loss of a fantastic lady.”

As the director of ALA’s Office of Intellectual Freedom, Judith had many protégés. She commanded the respect of friends and foes alike when it came to fighting for our First Amendment rights.

I remember the day that I called Judith while I was library dean at Colorado State University. This was before the passing of the Patriot Act; and a law enforcement officer was demanding some ILL records without the appropriate search warrant. I called her after our university counsel advise me that we give the officer what he requested. Judith was not only patient and understanding, but she was also very supportive and walked me through the process to consider. Which I did!

I think there are probably hundreds of stories like mine. She will be sorely missed. However, I have all the faith in the ALA Intellectual Freedom staff to continue Judith’s fight for First Amendment rights.

Goodbye, great colleague….

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Tags: First Amendment rights, intellectual freedom, Judith Krug

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