We hoped to bring books into the Justice Center to offer inmates books with high appeal, matching the reading interests of each. Instead, we initiated an opportunity to share and discuss news articles with those in the Exit Pod. The inmates are enthusiastic about reading and discussing each article in depth. In fact, we must budget our time to share resources and discussions to one hour! The inmates regularly express eagerness for library staff to return so that ideas can be shared, and information can be provided.

Aside from sharing news articles in order to spark conversation, we made a system of “reference transactions” where inmates write their requests on cards. Staff return, provide answers and additional customized resources. These elements support critical thinking skills and recreational needs to promote well-being. Library staff created opportunities for inmates to write poetry, stories and to draw. This allowed them to discuss their perspectives in ways that promote a humanizing sense of pride, equity and inclusion.

Our library is now an Organizational Partner of the HCOR, of which we are proud. Our goal is to customize and individualize our support of each person, and promote a consistent sense of equity and inclusion. Another terrific outcome stems from being a part of quarterly HCOR networking meetings with its organizational partners. At those meetings, we discuss the resources we each bring to the Exit Pod with partner organizations.