Good Prison Libraries Provide a Way Out

Re “Building Minds Behind Bars,” editorial, March 24: I applaud The Times’ support for AB 1914, which would give a new impetus to education efforts in the state’s prisons. But more needs to be done. It would be impossible to have a truly effective literacy and education system without upgrading and increased oversight of the prison libraries, most of which are underfunded and thinly staffed. Libraries lie at the core of successful literacy programs; they are the natural site for tutoring and materials, in prison and outside the walls. Further, use of prison libraries’ resources begins a positive process that after release is easily continued in community public libraries, whose resources and services are already paid for and waiting.

Michael McGrorty

Altadena