Volunteering at the Prison Book Program

Prison Book Program is a very unique literacy initiative in North Quincy, Massachusetts. It is organized by a grassroots organization that exists for one purpose—to send free books to prisoners. This program has been running since 1972 and has served many prisoners in 46 states in the US. Every year, the organization can send up to 3.000 books.

The way they work is pretty simple, yet so meaningful. The organization receives book donations and mails them to prisons. The books they send to prisoners span various genres and subjects. Through outreach activities and word-of-mouth, this program has been very popular among the prisoners.

On Thursday (11/3) I had a chance to volunteer in the program together with other 15 volunteers. My tasks were simple - reading the letters from the prisoners and looking for their book requests, which can be fiction or non-fiction. Some of the letters were just so emotional and helped me to understand how important books and this program are for them.

There was one letter that struck me deeply. I forget the name of the sender, yet in his letter, he showed his gratitude that he could get free books from the program. He wrote that the Prison Book Program puts smiles on everyone’s face who participates, and he was smiling as he wrote the letter because he knows that someone cares about him and the other prisoners.

I believe the prisoners are having a difficult time and feel lonely there. But I hope the books that we sent them could cheer them up and keep them company while they wait to have a new life.