Juvenile Justice Center Book Club Outreach
Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library
Innovation Synopsis
The Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library’s Juvenile Justice Center Book Club Outreach is a monthly engagement program that brings books, activities, and meaningful conversation to youth in detention. By partnering with the Juvenile Justice Center, Library staff connect with young people, many from marginalized communities, through literature, creative expression, and personal encouragement. This initiative fosters literacy, builds trust, and positions the Library as a safe and welcoming space for all, especially those reentering society.
Challenge/Opportunity
This initiative was designed to address several systemic challenges:
- Limited access to literacy resources for youth in detention.
- Lack of inclusive programming for youth in the justice system.
- Underrepresentation of marginalized voices in traditional outreach efforts.
- The need to build trust and awareness of the Library as a safe, welcoming space post-release.
- The opportunity to support youth development through reading, creativity, and workforce-related resources.
Key Elements of Innovation
The Juvenile Justice Center Book Club Outreach began in September 2024 following planning sessions with Hamilton County Juvenile Judge Kari Bloom and Magistrate Sarah Henry. Judge Bloom and Ms. Henry were focused on updating the content and selection of books available to young people at the Juvenile Justice Center in order to appeal to today’s teenagers and young adults. On the first Tuesday of each month, Library Outreach staff deliver books to the English teacher at the Juvenile Justice Center. On the third Tuesday, staff visit one boy's pod and one girl’s pod to discuss books, share Library resources, and lead activities such as drawing, puzzles, and snacks. Youth express interest in a wide range of materials, including graphic novels, biographies of Cincinnati figures, financial literacy, legal guides, and employment resources. Staff encourage youth to visit the Library after release, reinforcing its role as a safe and inclusive space.
Achieved Outcomes
The program has created a consistent and trusted presence at the Juvenile Justice Center, with monthly visits and book deliveries. Staff have built relationships with youth and have responded to their diverse interests with tailored book selections. The initiative has helped staff overcome personal biases and deepen their understanding of the challenges these youth face. Feedback from staff and youth has been overwhelmingly positive, with youth expressing appreciation for the books and activities, and staff reporting a renewed sense of purpose and connection. The Library has strengthened its partnership with the Juvenile Justice Center and positioned itself as a vital resource for youth literacy and equity.
