5James Thomas, known as Tom Thomas (1922 – April 7, 1986), was an American publisher and publisher of Morris Library Publishers, a small press publishing company based in New York City. He published a number of adult and children's titles, including works by Terry Southern, E.L. Doctorow, and David Copperfield (a children's book). He was also an advocate for freedom of expression and challenged censorship, often defending his publications against accusations of indecency.

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5James Thomas: The Defiant Publisher Who Fought for Freedom and Championed Bold Literature (1922–1986) In the mid-20th century, when censorship loomed large over the American publishing world, one figure stood firm in defending free expression—James Thomas, better known as Tom Thomas (1922–1986). As the visionary publisher of Morris Library Publishers, a small but impactful press based in New York City, Thomas carved a unique legacy by championing bold, unconventional, and often controversial works across both adult and children’s literature. ### A Publisher with Principle Tom Thomas’ tenure at Morris Library Publishers was defined by a rare combination of literary ambition and fierce independence. Operating outside the glare of major publishing houses, Morris Library became a haven for writers willing to challenge societal norms. Under Thomas’ leadership, the company published a diverse slate of titles that included works by iconic authors and culturally significant books—while simultaneously standing as a bulwark against censorship.