Jessamyn West Quotes
Jessamyn West (1902-1984) was an American author and librarian best known for her novels and short stories about life in rural Indiana. Her most famous works include The Friendly Persuasion (1945), a novel about a Quaker family during the Civil War, and The Witch Diggers (1951), a collection of shor…Read More
Jessamyn West (1902-1984) was an American author and librarian best known for her novels and short stories about life in rural Indiana. Her most famous works include The Friendly Persuasion (1945), a novel about a Quaker family during the Civil War, and The Witch Diggers (1951), a collection of short stories about life in rural Indiana. West was also a passionate advocate for libraries and literacy, and served as a librarian in California for many years. Her works are known for their vivid descriptions of rural life and their exploration of themes such as faith, family, and community.Read Less
Jessamyn West (1902-1984) was an American author and librarian best known for her novels and short stories about life in rural Indiana. Her most famous works include The Friendly Persuasion (1945), a novel about a Quaker family during the Civil War, and The Witch Diggers (1951), a collection of short stories about life in rural Indiana. West was also a passionate advocate for libraries and literacy, and served as a librarian in California for many years. Her works are known for their vivid descriptions of rural life and their exploration of themes such as faith, family, and community.
23 Inspiring Jessamyn West Quotes
Jessamyn West Career Highlights
- West’s writing career began in the 1920s when she started publishing short stories in various magazines. Her first novel, “The Friendly Persuasion,” was published in 1945 and became a bestseller, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal readership.
- In addition to her successful career as a writer, West also worked as a librarian for over 30 years. She started as a library assistant in California and eventually became the head librarian at the Benicia Public Library in 1936.
- West’s passion for librarianship led her to become an active member of the American Library Association (ALA). She served on various committees and was elected as the president of the California Library Association in 1951.
- In 1953, West was appointed as a consultant for the Library of Congress, where she worked on developing library services for rural areas. She also served as a consultant for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and traveled to various countries to promote library services.
- West’s contributions to the field of librarianship were recognized when she was awarded the Melvil Dewey Medal in 1959, the highest honor given by the ALA for outstanding contributions to the profession.
Key Contributions by Jessamyn West
- West’s most significant contribution to the field of librarianship was her advocacy for rural library services. She believed that access to information and education should not be limited to urban areas and worked tirelessly to establish libraries in rural communities.
- As a writer, West’s works often focused on the lives of rural Americans and the importance of community and family. Her writing reflected her belief in the power of literature to bring people together and promote understanding and empathy.
- West also played a crucial role in promoting intellectual freedom and fighting against censorship. She was a vocal supporter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and served on the board of directors for the National Council Against Censorship.
What Sets Jessamyn West Apart
- West’s unique perspective as both a writer and a librarian set her apart from her peers. Her understanding of the importance of access to information and the power of literature to shape society informed her work in both fields.
- Despite facing criticism and backlash for her progressive views, West remained steadfast in her beliefs and continued to advocate for social justice and intellectual freedom.
- West’s writing style, characterized by its simplicity and honesty, resonated with readers and critics alike. Her works were praised for their authenticity and ability to capture the essence of rural life.
Takeaways
- Jessamyn West’s career highlights and key contributions demonstrate her unwavering dedication to promoting education, intellectual freedom, and social justice.
- Her work as a writer and librarian serves as a reminder of the importance of access to information and the power of literature to bring people together.
- West’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of writers and librarians to use their voices and platforms to create positive change in society.
Other People
Writer/Author
Author
1882 - 1956
Author
· Canada
1843 - 1919
Author
1933
