Prison Library Programs Loyola University

 At Jessup Correctional Institution, Dr. Drew Leder, M.D. Ph.D, Philosophy Dept., Loyola U.,  and some of his student,  conducted  an eight- week course using a book he authored-  "Sparks of the Divine". 20-30 inmates participated.   Dr. Leder:  "We focussed on how to find meaning, beauty and spiritual lessons in the things and activities of everyday life-including those still available within  a prison.... For the Loyola students it was a very exciting and enlightening experience-- They were extremely impressed by the quality of the inmates' commitment, knowledge, and reflective comments.  Any simple-minded stereotypes they had of "criminals" and "prisoners" were quickly overturned by this experience. I think it also helped them appreciate their own education and make them feel they have something to share with those less fortunate"....From the inmates, we have received many comments about how much the class and our presence was appreciated, and how the materials studied was bothe inspiring and practically applicable in their daily lives".

Ms Schroeder,JCI  Librarian, Dr. Leder, Loyola U. students Rosie, Kim, Chloe, Tom