Queens Defenders and Queens Public Library team up for reentry program

A new program from the Queens Public Library and Queens Defenders will help with the reentry of formerly incarcerated individuals into a technology-reliant world. Photo courtesy of QPL

By Rachel Vick

The Queens Defenders and The Queens Public Library are teaming up for a new reentry program that will support people released from jails and prisons during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The “Immediate Access: Technology Re-entry Program,” will connect participants with a smartphone and data plan to facilitate access to resources to help “them connect with their communities and realize their full potential,” said QPL President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has made the transition from life inside a correctional facility to life on the outside especially challenging,” Walcott said.  “Our joint program with Queens Defenders will provide formerly incarcerated individuals with tools allowing them to take advantage of learning opportunities available at the Library and beyond.”

Participants will also receive job training and technology assistance tailored to the individual by specially-trained library staff.

Available resources include the QPL Re-entry Resource Guide as well as assistance from the Library’s Job and Business Academy and the Queensbridge Tech Lab at the Queensbridge housing complex. 

The program, funded by a $330,000 Federal CARES Act Grant for museums and libraries, will help 75 formerly incarcerated individuals over two years.

“This technology-focused initiative will help individuals re-establish themselves in the community as they aspire to lead productive lives free of further justice-system involvement,” said Queens Defenders Executive Director Lori Zeno. “We look forward to sharing lessons learned so more individuals re-entering society from incarceration can benefit from the supports and access to technology offered through this program.”