I stumbled across an article several months ago about a book club for prisoners. The article title and abstract caught my attention, but I didn’t have time to actually sit and read it. I bookmarked it and told myself that I’d return to it in a day or so. Turns out I forgot about it for quite some time until I rediscovered it a few days ago. Lucky for me, I had some time to sit and read through the article. I was intrigued by this concept of a book club for inmates— a chance for them to experience something that usually isn’t associated with life behind bars.
The book club has been running for 15 semesters. They read a book a week, and books are chosen based on the theme that has been picked for the semester. Inmates read the books on their own, then come together to discuss what they read.
The club facilitator is a volunteer, and the program is run through a local university. The university also facilities other programs for inmates, bringing higher education inside the walls of the prison. Their goal is to give inmates a chance to get ahead while they are incarcerated, with the hope that they will then use their education for good and turn their lives around once they are released. Research has shown that inmates who participate in some kind of educational program or class while incarcerated are much less likely to fall back into a life of crime one they are done with their sentence.
Prison education programs go further than a book club, however. Most prisons offer opportunities for inmates to experience a wide range of educational pursuits. Programs might include basic literacy and GED programs, vocational training programs, and often college-level courses. Some prisons may also offer rehabilitation programs, which focus on behavioral interventions, life skills, and planning for life after prison. Arts and crafts programs are also often offered, giving inmates a chance to explore creative outlets.
These educational programs provide inmates with an opportunity to choose— So much of an inmate’s life behind bars is controlled or mandated by things out of their control. They must adhere to schedules and other requirements, leaving little room for personal choice.
One of the consequences associated with jail or prison time is losing the privilege to make individual choices— inmates don’t get to choose what they wear, where they sleep, who is in the cell next to them, and so on. In a world of so little choice, I can imagine that the ability to choose to be able to participate in educational programs is very welcomed. Sure, people end up behind bars because of choices they have made, but they are still people, and they still deserve a chance to reclaim their lives.
Beyond reduced recidivism, prison education programs have other benefits. Upon release, inmates who have taken advantage of education opportunities may be more competitive in the job market, leading to increased chances of employment. Education programs can also lead to more positive and productive prisons, which could lead to safer environments for inmates. One of the biggest benefits of education behind bars is the boost to mental health that comes from these programs. Inmates who are actively enrolled in and benefiting from education programs are more likely to have better mental health— they feel a sense of empowerment and pride in their learning. New knowledge and skills lead to more productivity and can motivate people to continue learning.
Imagine the positive impact on incarcerated persons who intentionally participate in the educational opportunities that are offered to them! Not only are they going to come out of prison with new skills and opportunities, but their time in prison can turn into something productive and meaningful. I love the idea of these opportunities for imprisoned individuals to better themselves, make progress, and eventually use their knowledge for good upon release.
Many prison programs are run by volunteers and by monetary donations. If you’re able, check if your local jail or prison has educational programs available to its inmates and if they are in need of donations. It’s a good cause, and is one that benefits many!
You can read the article about the prison book club here.