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.
Contact Information
School of Library & Information StudiesUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison
Room 4217 Helen C. White Hall
600 N. Park Street, Madison, WI 53706
JailLibraryGroup@gmail.com
This page last updated October 30, 2007.