NCJ Number
74786
Date Published
1977
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The evaluation of a library program instituted in a Pennsylvania treatment facility for juvenile offenders showed that it was received enthusiatically by staff members and residents and probably improved reading scores.
Abstract
George Junior Republic is a private residential facility for over 180 boys, ages 10 to 18, most of whom have been referred by the juvenile court. Many inmates display emotional disturbances and learning disabilities, and all distrust adults and authority, particularly in regard to education. This project was designed to motivate reading and encourage interest in human relations by placing library materials in the eight residential cottages. Special projects conducted by the librarians to stimulate interest include discussions on the occult and supernatural, cooking classes, drama, and cross country skiing. Programs on legal rights, careers, and consumer education were also offered. These activities occurred 4 times a week for 1 hour per night. In the summer when school was not in session, a daytime lecture series was initiated. By fall, changes in staff forced a reduction in evening programs, but a special resource room was established next to the school library for the program's materials. Library hours were expanded to include evenings and weekends. Records show that an average of 120 books were signed out per month from evening cottage visits, with an additional 180 books circulating monthly from the resource room. An average of 6 boys attended the evening sessions, and 15 used the resource room daily. For the most part, the boys handled library materials with great care and respected the staff. Because of constant turnover in student population and lack of followup opportunities, a totally objective evaluation of the program could not be obtained. However, comments from staff and students, coupled with improved reading scores for a sample of 30 participants, indicated that the project was a success.