Prison Library Support Network

Controlling and restricting information access is a powerful form of violence used by the prison industrial complex. In response, PLSN created a structure for volunteers to remotely answer questions mailed to us by people in facilities around the country with care and expertise. Since the launch of our fully volunteer-powered service in October 2021 we have responded to over 900 questions from incarcerated people. 

Stamps, envelopes, and printing are the biggest expenses for the reference project with costs being covered by volunteers and one-off stamp drives. Recognizing that this model would not be sustainable for the growing number of letters received, PLSN has partnered with the Open Collective Foundation (OCF) to create a space where people can donate on a one-time or reoccurring basis. Your contributions will go directly to buying the supplies we need to respond to the over 200 letters we get every month from incarcerated folks.

Want to learn more about the Reference Project? Reach out to us for more info by emailing plsn_nyc@protonmail.com and visit our in-progress Reference Project site for more info.