University Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The items in the Digital Collections of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Library contain materials which represent or depict sensitive topics or were written from perspectives using outdated or biased language. The Library condemns discrimination and hatred on any grounds. As a research library that supports the mission and values of this land grant institution, it is incumbent upon the University Library to preserve, describe, and provide access to materials to accurately document our past, support learning about it, and effect change in the present. In accordance with the American Library Association’s Freedom to Read statement, we do not censor our materials or prevent patrons from accessing them.

If you have questions regarding this statement or any content in the Library’s digital collections, please contact digitalcollections@lists.illinois.edu

American Library Association’s Freedom to Read Statement

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility at the University Library

Eldon Ray James Oral History (Born Digital)

Oral History of Eldon Ray James (September 2023), retired librarian, ALA member, and formerly incarcerated person, recorded on September 12, 19, and 23, 2023, containing video and audio recordings, and transcripts. Recordings include information on James' childhood, military service, universities attended, employment, incarceration, becoming a librarian, work with Dr. Loriene Roy and ALA, the "Prisoners Right to Read," the Freedom to Read Honor Roll, reflections on his life, the library profession, and library services to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people. Interview conducted by Deb Sica, Alameda County Library, questions developed by Deb Sica and Erin Berman, Alameda County Library.

This collection is managed by the American Library Association Archives and does not feature precise descriptive information for each item. Discover its contents by browsing the folders and files. For more information, contact an archivist at ala-archives@library.illinois.edu.