Incarcerated Services
As a learning organization, Johnson County Library is committed to ensuring everyone has access to information, resources, and opportunities—regardless of their circumstances. Our outreach efforts reflect our mission, vision, and values by working to connect all members of the community with the power of knowledge.
Through our Incarcerated Services Support programs, we provide access to ideas, information, and experiences that enrich the lives of justice-involved individuals. These services are made possible through Johnson County Library, the Johnson County Library Foundation, in partnership with granting agencies.
Our outreach extends to the Johnson County Department of Corrections campuses including the Adult Residential Center and the Juvenile Detention Center.
Programs That Make a Difference
- Read to Me
An early literacy program that helps incarcerated parents build bonds with their children. Participants learn read-aloud techniques and record themselves reading a book, which is then shared with their child. - Library Office Hours
Regular visits to the Adult Residential Center, where individuals can connect directly with Library staff to access resources, ask questions, and find support for reentry and lifelong learning. - Courtroom Assisted Reading Encouragement (CARE)
Any child who finds themselves visiting the Johnson County Courthouse can receive a free book. The collection is maintained by Johnson County Library.
These efforts are part of our broader commitment to create inclusive spaces for learning, exploration, creativity, and connection—ensuring that even the most vulnerable members of our community have the tools and opportunities to grow.
From Residents at The ARC
JoCoLibrary Uncovered - Incarcerated
In Their Own Words
JoCoLibrary Podcast - Incarcerated
In 2023, JoCoLibrary Uncovered hit the road to record at the Adult Residential Center (ARC) in New Century, KS. Incarcerated Services Librarian Melody introduced us to two individuals faced with temporary detention. Phil and Dia shared how they relied on access to Johnson County Library materials on their road to recovery. Phil shared how exploring books and using the on-site Library has helped him:
“We are pretty much forced to be here. That, or go to prison. But, I tell you what, it’s really great! It helps you transition back into the community. It’s really intensive therapy. You have small group four days a week, different classes from Co-occurring Disorders, to Socialization, CAT—which is Criminal Addictive Thinking, Relapse Prevention. But, there’s really great counselors, and they have a pretty high success rate! Also, they help find us mentors. Also, the Library that we have here is just amazing!”
Also in the episode, Youth Services Librarian Jayma shared her experience with the Read to Me program—incarcerated parents are recorded reading aloud and the Library provides a copy of the recording and the book to their child.