This bill directs the Attorney General to establish a grant program within one year of its enactment, designed to fund library services for incarcerated individuals. The primary goals of this program are to advance reintegration efforts, reduce recidivism, and increase educational opportunities for those in correctional facilities. Eligible applicants include States and territories that submit a comprehensive plan, demonstrate the existence or intent to create a physical library, and provide demographic data proving a compelling need for funding. Grant funds are specifically allocated for a broad range of library services, encompassing education and job training , the acquisition of modern materials and equipment , and the expansion of library infrastructure to be more welcoming. Permitted uses also include hiring qualified librarians and staff , offering digital literacy and career readiness programming, and providing computer and internet access. However, funds cannot be used for personal items like food or clothing, general prison operations, or facility maintenance unrelated to the libraries. The Attorney General will prioritize applicants that adhere to established library management standards , integrate post-secondary education curriculum into their programming, and present clear plans for measurable positive impacts, such as increased literacy rates and expanded post-release employment opportunities. Grants are awarded for a one-year term, renewable annually for up to six years, and require grantees to submit annual performance and expenditure reports. The bill authorizes $10,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031 to support this initiative.
This bill directs the Attorney General to establish a grant program within one year of its enactment, designed to fund library services for incarcerated individuals. The primary goals of this program are to advance reintegration efforts, reduce recidivism, and increase educational opportunities for those in correctional facilities. Eligible applicants include States and territories that submit a comprehensive plan, demonstrate the existence or intent to create a physical library, and provide demographic data proving a compelling need for funding. Grant funds are specifically allocated for a broad range of library services, encompassing education and job training , the acquisition of modern materials and equipment , and the expansion of library infrastructure to be more welcoming. Permitted uses also include hiring qualified librarians and staff , offering digital literacy and career readiness programming, and providing computer and internet access. However, funds cannot be used for personal items like food or clothing, general prison operations, or facility maintenance unrelated to the libraries. The Attorney General will prioritize applicants that adhere to established library management standards , integrate post-secondary education curriculum into their programming, and present clear plans for measurable positive impacts, such as increased literacy rates and expanded post-release employment opportunities. Grants are awarded for a one-year term, renewable annually for up to six years, and require grantees to submit annual performance and expenditure reports. The bill authorizes $10,000,000 for each fiscal year from 2026 through 2031 to support this initiative.