

Episode 2: Jennie Pu - Public Library Director and Freedom to Read Advocate
Aug 1, 2025
Jennie Pu, Director of the Hoboken Public Library, is an advocate for intellectual freedom and a trailblazer in the library field. She discusses her journey transforming the library into a sanctuary for creativity while leading statewide efforts for the Freedom to Read legislation. Jennie emphasizes the importance of advocating against book censorship and creating inclusive spaces. With innovative initiatives like the abolition of fines and community-driven projects, she showcases how libraries can evolve into vibrant community hubs that cater to diverse needs.
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Chutes And Ladders Career Path
- Jennie Pu describes her nonlinear 'chutes and ladders' career from museums and tech into libraries.
- She cites a childhood love of reading and library access to technology as drivers for the shift.
Local Antidote To National Censorship
- Book challenges reached Hoboken from outside the community and politicized library work.
- Jennie framed a public, local response to assert libraries' role in protecting access to reading.
Becoming A Book Sanctuary
- Hoboken passed a unanimous city council resolution to become a book sanctuary after the library's readathon drew attacks.
- Other libraries and cities adapted the idea to their communities' needs.