Every year, around 650,000 Americans return to their communities from prison, and an additional nine million are released from county jails. These individuals often struggle to reintegrate, facing overwhelming barriers, including legal barriers. Law libraries are a key partner in transforming lives post-incarceration. By offering critical legal resources, educational programs, clinics, and referrals, law libraries provide a lifeline to those seeking a fresh start. But what does a successful reentry program look like in practice? What are the most pressing legal needs of those reentering society? And how can we, as law librarians and community partners, break down the barriers to deliver these essential services? Join us for an insightful panel featuring experts from the Lewis & Clark Criminal Justice Reform Clinic, Ithaka S+R Justice Initiatives, and a county law library, as we share powerful stories, innovative strategies, and actionable recommendations on how we can better serve the decarcerated. Discover how you can be part of a movement that makes a real difference—helping individuals rebuild their lives and creating stronger communities for all.

TARGET AUDIENCE:

All legal information professionals who have an interest in serving decarcerated patrons with legal information and services. This program will appeal to academic and public librarians who work with the public, as well as law firm librarians who work with pro bono activities. It will also appeal to anyone who is interested in getting involved in the reentry community and collaborating with legal services, law school clinics, public libraries, social services, parole offices, and local government to improve social responsibility work.

This program is sponsored by the Social Responsibilities SIS (SR-SIS).

TAKEAWAYS:

1. Participants will identify the challenges faced by patrons as they are released from incarceration.
2. Participants will assess the legal needs of decarcerated patrons and how access to legal information resources and services can improve their lives.
3. Participants will identify potential partnerships and strategies to collaborate with the reentry community in their local area.

SPEAKERS:

• Karen Westwood, Anne W. Grande Law Library
• Aliza B. Kaplan, Lewis & Clark Law School
• Enrique Rivera, Multnomah County Local Public Safety Coordinating Council
• Tammy Ortiz, Ithaka S+R

COORDINATOR:

• Diane M. Rodriguez, San Francisco Law Library

AALL BODY OF KNOWLEDGE DOMAINS: Research + Analysis, Marketing + Outreach

CANCELLATION AND OTHER POLICIES:

No refunds will be given for any purchased AALL conference recording. This applies to non-AALL members only as the recordings are free for AALL members.

The opinions shared during this program represent the views of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the American Association of Law Libraries (AALL). Recording, capturing, or using AI tools to duplicate, transcribe, or otherwise reproduce an AALL program in any form is strictly prohibited without prior written consent from AALL. This includes, but is not limited to audio, video, or any other content shared. By accessing an AALL recording, you agree to adhere to this policy.