Deborah Caldwell-Stone, J.D.
Executive Director
Professional Overview
Deborah Caldwell-Stone is a seasoned executive with extensive expertise in intellectual freedom and library advocacy. As the Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation, she leverages her legal background and deep industry knowledge to protect the rights of libraries and librarians, and to champion the freedom of expression.
Experience Summary
Current Role
Deborah Caldwell-Stone has served as the Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation since October 2019. In this role, she is responsible for leading the organization's efforts to defend the First Amendment rights of libraries, librarians, and the broader literary and artistic community. She works closely with the board of trustees to set the strategic direction of the foundation and oversee its various initiatives and legal interventions.
Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Deborah Caldwell-Stone held several leadership positions within the American Library Association (ALA), including Interim and Deputy Director of the Office for Intellectual Freedom and Freedom to Read Foundation. In these roles, she played a pivotal role in advocating for intellectual freedom, defending against censorship attempts, and educating librarians and the public on their rights and responsibilities.
Academic Background
Deborah Caldwell-Stone holds a Doctor of Jurisprudence (J.D.) degree from the Illinois Institute of Technology, which has provided her with a strong legal foundation to navigate the complex issues surrounding intellectual freedom and First Amendment rights.
Areas of Expertise
- Intellectual freedom and First Amendment advocacy
- Library law and policy
- Censorship and book challenges
- Ethical leadership and decision-making
- Collaborative stakeholder engagement
Professional Impact
Throughout her career, Deborah Caldwell-Stone has been a tireless advocate for intellectual freedom and the rights of libraries and librarians. She has spearheaded numerous legal interventions, authored influential publications, and delivered impactful presentations to educate and empower the library community. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the national discourse on critical issues such as patron privacy, content challenges, and the role of libraries in upholding democratic values.
Conclusion
Deborah Caldwell-Stone's extensive experience, legal acumen, and commitment to intellectual freedom make her a respected and influential leader in the library and information science field. In her current role as Executive Director of the Freedom to Read Foundation, she continues to drive meaningful change and safeguard the fundamental rights that are essential to the success of libraries and the communities they serve.
