Books Through Bars
We send quality reading material to prisoners and encourage creative dialogue on the criminal justice system, thereby educating those living inside and outside of prison walls.

News Archive

Newsletter Available Online

Thursday, December 6th, 2007

You can now download the PDF version of our recently published newsletter, which includes a report of the obstacles prisoners face when trying to access educational materials. If you’d like to recieve a print copy of the newsletter, email info@booksthroughbars.org.

Tree-Planting in Honor of Barbara Hirshkowitz

Sunday, October 21st, 2007

Barbara Hirshkowitz, a long-time leader of Books Through Bars, passed away in March. We are planting a tree in front of our office to honor her lifelong commitment to peace and social justice. Join us on Sunday, November 11th at noon for the planting and to view a selection of artwork from the Contexts Collection by Artists in Prison.

Support BTB at the Dash for Democracy!

Sunday, October 21st, 2007

Supporters of Books Through Bars are forming a team for the Dash for Democracy 5K run/walk on November 3, 2007. The team with the most participants will win $2000 for their organization, so join us! Email info@booksthroughbars.org to get instructions for registering. To learn more about the dash for democracy, visit www.dashfordemocracy.org

Thanks for supporting the Pack-a-Thon!

Saturday, June 2nd, 2007

We’d like to acknowledge all the volunteers, donors, and local businesses that supported the Pack-a-Thon on May 12. Special thanks go out to Abbraccio Restaurant, the White Dog Cafe, Vientiane Cafe, and Incredibly Edible Delites for their donations of delicious food and prizes.

In Loving Memory of Barbara

Wednesday, March 14th, 2007

Barbara Hirshkowitz, a leader of Books Through Bars for many years, passed away on March 2nd. Among her many contributions to BTB, Barbara was the curator of the Contexts Collection of art by prisoners and a top fundraiser.
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Contexts Collection at Kaffa Crossing

Saturday, March 10th, 2007

A selection from Books Through Bars’ Contexts Collection of Art by Prisoners will be on display throughout March at Kaffa Crossing Cafe, 4423 Chestnut St., Philadelphia.
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Find a prison book program near you

Sunday, February 11th, 2007

Books Through Bars has created an interactive map showing prison book programs in the US and Canada, including contact information. Check it out, and get involved with a prison book program near you!