Volunteer Orientation for the Prison Library Support Network's Reference Project

Join us for the first-ever volunteer orientation for Prison Library Support Network's new Reference Project. After attending this orientation you will be able to remotely answer reference questions from people incarcerated in NYC correctional facilities.

While public libraries offer services to correctional facilities in NYC, they are not able to circulate their general collections in correctional facilities. Instead, librarians circulate books from a much smaller, more limited collection used exclusively inside jails and prisons. This results in library staff receiving requests and reference questions in person that relate to topics not covered by the library collection. In partnership with local public librarians who serve people incarcerated in NYC jails, PLSN has created a structure for volunteers (that's you!) to remotely answer these kinds of reference requests with care and expertise.

Transportation/access: 3 blocks from F/G/R trains at 4th Ave./9th St or B63 bus. The space is wheelchair accessible, and has an ADA/gender-inclusive bathroom. Interference asks that visitors refrain from using perfumes or other heavily scented items in order to minimize risks to people with chemical sensitivities. Please email plsn_nyc@protonmail.com with any questions!