In response to financial challenges expressed by inmates before incarceration, TPL created a financial literacy program designed to teach basic financial skills including budgeting and managing money responsibly. "Prison Book Clubs" provide opportunities for intellectual stimulation and social interaction through discussions in a safe and respectful environment. Lastly, maintaining connections with their children can be challenging for inmates. The "Storybook Parents" program allows participants to bond with their children by reading to them from afar.

This innovation provides an opportunity to meet the programming needs identified by participants and prison administration and an opportunity to reach out to a marginalized community that is under-served. It provides an exciting opportunity to deliver tailored services outside the library branch, in keeping with the changing role of the librarian. Lastly, it provides an opportunity to make connections and share stories more broadly with the public, creating a compelling narrative about modern library service.

TPL’s programs have had a tremendous impact on participants and their families. "Storybook Parents" program participants have reported a closer bond with their children, despite the physical separation. Participants in the book clubs and financial literacy programs have actively engaged with fellow inmates, helping to reduce social isolation and providing opportunities for growth and self-reflection. It is anticipated that these programs will provide opportunities to support the rehabilitation and reintegration process for participants over time.