Prison Libraries

Policy B.8.2 states, "The American Library Association encourages public libraries and systems to extend their services to residents of jails and other detention facilities within their taxing areas."

An Interpretation of the Library Bill of Rights states "The American Library Association asserts a compelling public interest in the preservation of intellectual freedom for individuals of any age held in jails, prisons, detention facilities, juvenile facilities, immigration facilities, prison work camps and segregated units within any facility."

Offered through the ALA Public Programs Office, the Great Stories Club is a library-led book club model that gives underserved youth facing significant challenges the opportunity to read, reflect, and share ideas on topics that resonate with them. There will be grant opportunities for prison librarians over the next 30 months, and though the program is for YA readers, proposals from prison librarians who work with younger reading groups (usually about 18-24 yrs old) will be considered.