NEW YORK — Sarah Jessica Parker is set to receive this year’s PEN America “Literary Service Award.” The acclaimed star of “Sex and the City” has long championed the importance of reading and literacy and will be recognized at the organization’s annual spring gala on May 15.

Jon Yaged, the CEO of Macmillan Publishers, has been named the recipient of the “Business Visionary Award.”

Parker has been active in various literary initiatives, including founding her own publishing imprint. She recently served as the executive producer for the documentary “The Librarians,” which addresses the issue of book banning and premiered at the Sundance Film Festival last month.

Historically, the PEN/Audible Literary Service Award has been awarded to influential writers who resonate with a wide audience and contribute to a deeper understanding of the human experience. Previous recipients include renowned figures like Stephen Sondheim and Toni Morrison. The current criteria now emphasize recognizing “a writer or advocate who has served the literary community through their words or work.”

PEN co-CEO Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf highlighted the pressing issue many underrepresented authors face today, as their works are increasingly removed from school libraries and classrooms. She noted that Parker is dedicated to combating these restrictions and plays a crucial role in championing the freedom to read while promoting fresh American voices through her imprint SJP Lit.

Under Yaged’s leadership, Macmillan has published a diverse array of authors including Sally Rooney, Kristin Hannah, S.A. Cosby, and Michael Wolff. The Business Visionary Award celebrates exceptional leadership that acknowledges the integral role literature plays in fostering democratic and humane values.

PEN co-CEO Summer Lopez commended Yaged’s powerful stance against book bans and his unwavering commitment to promoting varied voices in publishing. “For decades, Jon has been a steadfast defender of the right to read and a leader in ensuring that the publishing industry reflects diverse perspectives, understanding their essential part in a democratic society,” Lopez stated. “We are privileged to honor him as a ‘visionary’ for his compassionate and principled approach to literary publishing.”

Notably, prior recipients of the Business Visionary Award include former Macmillan CEO John Sargent, and prominent publishing executives like Markus Dohle from Penguin Random House, Michael Pietsch from Hachette Book Group, and Caroline Reidy from Simon & Schuster.