SDPL and Local Incarcerated Populations
San Diego Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
SDPL’s Community Engagement Committee (CEC) identified resources needed by both those incarcerated and those preparing to re-enter into their communities. In response, the CEC visited facilities to provide mock job interviews, presentations on library resources, created a trifold brochure, assisted institutions with cataloging their existing collections, donated paperback books, and created a website to highlight re-entry resources.
Challenge/Opportunity
Incarcerated individuals have limited access to books. The CEC worked with the Friends of the Library to donate paperback books. A librarian provided cataloging services to improve access to the existing collection and suggested additional purchases. Access to legal materials, health care, alternative formats (Large Print, Audiobooks), and world languages continue to be a challenge. The CEC created a trifold brochure highlighting library resources due to low Internet access. Included is how to access hot spots, Chromebooks and library card applications. Social Service partners are available at several library locations for re-entry support.
Key Elements of Innovation
The CEC collaborated with the Friends of the Library to donate paperbacks that meet facilities guidelines. A cataloging library simplified facility library’s material review process to improve in-house library space. CEC members visited MCC San Diego to provide mock job interviews for soon-to-be released inmates. Continued partnerships between the library and detention facilities provide incarcerated patrons improved access to resources. Those re-entering their communities are supported by library and social service partners through free access to resources. A website featuring re-entry services was created by CEC members.
Achieved Outcomes
7,000 books have been donated to local incarceration facilities via Friends of the Library groups coordinated donations. Seven inmates wrote book reviews in appreciation of a book they read as part of the donation. A cataloging librarian provided 3 hours of collection development analysis at MCC San Diego. A group of six, soon to be released inmates at MCC San Diego went through mock interviews with an opportunity to receive feedback and ask questions. A website compiling library and social services resources for recently released individuals is available on the library’s re-entry resources page.
