A new report finds using computer tablets in prisons in Connecticut and nationwide isn’t filling the void of books.
The Prison Policy Initiative report notes more states provide access to tablets for prisoners. In 2019, only 12 states allowed them – now, 48 do.
But tablet use is increasing at a time when accessing physical books is a challenge due to bans.
Connecticut has close to 2,500 titles on its banned list, though some deemed explicit include medical books.
Wanda Bertram, communications strategist with the Prison Policy Initiative, said these devices make blanket book bans easier to impose.
“Someone who is eager to learn and to read books to escape the world that they’re living in, is not going to find a ton on tablets that’s going to be that stimulating for them,” said Bertram. “The books that are offered on tablets don’t seem to be filling the void that’s left when prisons choose to restrict access to physical reading.”
A PEN America survey finds 84% of prisons have implemented ‘content neutral’ book bans.
This means instead of being able to directly send an incarcerated person a book, friends and family members have to choose a title from a prison-approved vendor.
Experts say limiting literature can be counterintuitive for prisons. Studies show increased literacy rates, reading, and education programs in prison are key to reducing recidivism and reincarceration.
Pandemic-induced staff shortages are lingering in prisons, which also has led to library services being restricted or cut entirely.
Bertram said she thinks books are critical for people behind bars, noting they can aid with mental health or allow people to plan for life after incarceration.
She said prisons can ensure incarcerated people’s access to books.
“Not only are libraries a valuable resource when it comes to just allowing people to read, they’re also valuable as a place where people can meet and talk to each other,” said Bertram. “Some of the most impactful peer-to-peer or incarcerated people-led programs that have come up in prisons originated in libraries.”
While she said she wants to be more optimistic, the growth of computer tablet use is coming at the cost of accessing physical books.
A 2023 Marshall Project review finds state prisons explicitly banned over 50,000 books.
At the same time, 23 states, Washington, D.C., and the Federal Bureau of Prisons say they evaluate books on a case-by-case basis – but use vague rules and have little oversight.
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