Prison book Program
Supporting the freedom to read since 1972
Prison Book Program is an approved book vendor at over 1,000 prisons
and jails in all 50 states, Guam and Puerto Rico. Our books have always been and always will be completely free to recipients.
Our Impact in 2025
Volunteers
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Service Groups
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Hours
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People served
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Books mailed
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From our readers
Can a book bring peace? Yes! A bunch of men sitting around all day brings about tons of arguments, such as: richest person, 1975 Super Bowl, bestselling album, etc. At least once a day, my World Almanac stops arguments.
Ralph in Florida
Thank you for the books you've sent. I don't feel so alone and feel less, just thrown away. I think I'm still human, but sometimes I don't feel it. Having books keeps me grounded.
Walter in Wisconsin
Books enable me to escape the mundane and educate and entertain myself. A good story reminds me what it means to interact with others. It allows the reader to feel.
Tracy in Massachusetts
The books you sent me are so great. You guys hit it on the head, like you looked in my head. My birthday is in 10 days so I call the books an early birthday gift. You made an old man happy.
Steven in Oregon
Getting anything from someone, anyone, makes them feel that people out there still care. That in itself is so great.
Shannon in Arizona
With your help I've improved my literacy & language skills. This helped me obtain a GED & trade. I've found inspiration & redemption, discovering ways to use my time productively.
Israel in Florida
Books have been the key to helping me get through the last 37 years. Books have transported my mind to places beyond these bars, have given me comfort, have taught me and helped change my life. I have witnessed the power of books to change men's lives. People like you, who make books available, have helped change many men for the better.
Eugene in Connecticut
I've been incarcerated for nearly 12 consecutive years. Throughout the years I've written to you for books and information. You've always helped me and many others through some of our darkest hours. Organizations like yours have been a beacon of hope.
Dwight in Pennsylvania
I can say that starting to read books has been a joy for me. On the outside, sitting down to read a book was something I NEVER did. But I will start reading books outside when I am released. Reading is something I don't think I can live without for the rest of my life.
Doug in Ohio
The Merriam Webster dictionary was the first book I received and requested from you. I love it and I use it a lot. Once I get done with a book, I pass it on. However I'm going to keep the dictionary because I need it and I use it.
Ronnie in Arkansas
Life behind bars is about time. A good book is a way to escape the confines of prison and loosen time. One should exercise the body, mind and spirit daily, and reading hits on two out of three.
David in Tennessee
To live vicariously through books, I can study and use my mind so that I can grow rather than being dehumanized. Because I read, I've seen ancient civilizations, traveled through time, explored great mysteries, and loved a lifetime's worth, over and over again.
Daniel in Colorado
Like many others, I don't have anyone on the outside to send me stuff. To be locked in a cell with just your thoughts is truly hell. The freedom you have provided by giving out books to distract and help provide a learning opportunity is a great blessing.
Bryan in Illinois
Books to me are a world I can explore and be free, a world where even the smallest guy has a gift or talent. A world where my imagination can run wild. I love to read and not a day goes by that am not thinking of something else to read.
Jesus in Florida
Book Drop off and Volunteer Hours
Hours:
Tuesday: 6:00-9:00 pm
Wednesday: 1:00-4:00 pm
Thursday: 1:00-4:00 pm
Thursday: 6:00-9:00 pm
Saturday: 1:00-4:00 pm
Volunteers
Must sign up in advance.
Book Drop Offs
Books can be dropped off during volunteer hours. You do not need to sign up in advance, but check the sign up page to make sure we are open.
