(2018-0359-F) Jon Larimore Letter

The materials in FOIA 2018-0359-F are a selective body of documents responsive to the topic of the FOIA. Researchers should consult the archivist about related material. Jon Larimore operated the Gay and Lesbian Information Bureau (GLIB) for a period of ten years. A bulletin board system within its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, GLIB, under the leadership of Larimore, consistently ranked among the nation’s best web sites by providing top-notch customer service. The organization geared itself toward addressing local issues and aiding users with routine technical questions and providing IBM and MAC shareware. In an age that existed before the advent of the internet and Facebook, Larimore ran GLIB as a nonprofit communications system with several thousand members extending to Washington and beyond. His group acted as the computer social network for the LGBT community prior to the online explosion that occurred in the 21st century. The responsive document in in this FOIA case comes from the White House Office of Records Management (WHORM)-Subject File-General. There is correspondence, drafts, and notes within the one folder of material. Clinton’s letter to Larimore undergoes several revisions. The President begins by saying, “I want to extend my appreciation to the many members of the Gay and Lesbian Information Bureau who are selflessly giving their time to support my Administration.” Larimore and other volunteers from GLIB apparently helped the White House data entry office by supplying a considerable amount of computer expertise at critical points. The concluding paragraph of the letter once more emphasizes the positive contribution put forward by GLIB. Clinton writes, “Again, my great thanks to everyone who has offered their help. You exemplify the spirit of volunteerism, and I appreciate your commitment.”