Task list

There is lots to do with the JLG, and most volunteers start by taking on one task as their own. If a job interests you, please contact the JLG coordinator.

Outside the jails

• Shopping

  Take the JLG "most wanted list" to library book sales and used bookstores, and buy books the inmates want to read.

• Donation bin maintenance

  Pick up materials from donation bins around Madison and bring them to the SLIS library in Helen C. White Hall. Learn more about donation bin maintenance.

• Processing materials

  Attend periodic "processing parties" to prepare books and magazines for the jail libraries. Learn more about processing materials.

• Delivering donations

  Have a car? Help JLG move boxes of materials from the SLIS library to the Public Safety Building, 115 W. Doty St. in downtown Madison. Learn more about delivering donations.

• Fundraising

  Opportunities vary: UW-ASM student association grants, contributions from individuals, and weekly coffee and bagel sales are the JLG’s main funding sources.

Inside the jails

Please note: Jail access is necessary for these jobs.

• Kids’ Connection

  Help inmates record themselves reading books to their children. Learn more about Kids’ Connection.

• City-County Building

  Fill crates with materials and requests that deputies take directly to jail inmates. Learn more about working at the City County Building.

• Public Safety Building

  Take book carts to inmates in the jail housing units and find books to match their requests. Learn more about working at the Public Safety Building.