In the Media

Highlights of Freedom Reads and its work in the media.

From behind bars, to passing the bar
ABA Journal by Danielle Braff October 29, 2024

ABA Journal writes about Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts' journey from prison to Yale Law School.

Dwayne Betts Brings One-Man Show, ‘Felon: An American Washi Tale,’ to NU Chicago
Chicago Defender by Tacuma Roeback October 24, 2024

Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts brings his solo show, FELON: An American Washi Tale, to Northwestern University’s Abbott Hall this week.

Dwayne Betts Is Proof That A Book Can Change Your Life
The Book Case from ABC News by Kate & Charlie Gibson October 24, 2024

Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts shares how Freedom Libraries disrupt the austerity of prison and bring dignity to the space.

I Am Free When I Read
Country Roads Magazine by Jacqueline DeRobertis-Braun October 23, 2024

An in-depth feature on Freedom Reads, this Country Roads Magazine piece centers on Freedom Reads' work and impact in Louisiana.

Artist Titus Kaphar is leaving his mark on Philadelphia
The Philadelphia Inquirer by Bedatri D. Choudhury October 18, 2024

Artist Titus Kaphar's film, Exhibiting Forgiveness, is out in theaters. Freedom Reads partnered with Kaphar to screen the film at the California Institution for Men before it was released in theaters.

3 CT prisons will get new libraries
WSHU by Sara Anastasi September 30, 2024

Freedom Reads, with support from the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) and Senators Murphy and Blumenthal, opened 42 Freedom Libraries in Connecticut prisons this month.

Virginia authors shine at Library of Virginia literary gala
Richmond Free Press by Paula Phounsavath September 26, 2024

Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts was awarded the Library of Virginia's honorary Patron of Letters degree at this year's 27th Annual Virginia Literary Awards.

National nonprofit opens 42 small libraries in three CT prisons
Stamford Advocate by Eric Bedner September 25, 2024

With support from the Connecticut Health and Educational Facilities Authority (CHEFA) and Connecticut Senators Murphy and Blumenthal, Freedom Reads is opening 42 Freedom Libraries across three Connecticut prisons this month.

Shelf Life: Rachel Kushner
Elle by Riza Cruz September 4, 2024

Author Rachel Kushner spoke with Elle about her book picks for every occasion, and her support of Freedom Reads.

Books Saved Reginald Dwayne Betts In Prison – Now, He’s Behind The Literature Prize Voted On By Incarcerated Readers
Service95 by Seun Matiluko August 21, 2024

Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwyane Betts on the impact of books in prison, founding Freedom Reads, and launching the inaugural Inside Literary Prize.

Author’s Princeton ties bring N.J. its first Freedom Libraries
Princeton University by Jamie Saxon August 14, 2024

With support from the Princeton University Library, Freedom Reads opened its first Freedom Libraries in New Jersey earlier this year at Garden State Correctional Facility.

Inside Literary Prize: And the Winner Is....
New Thinking, from the Center for Justice Innovation by Matt Watkins August 14, 2024

Freedom Reads Founder & CEO Reginald Dwayne Betts and inaugural Inside Literary Prize winner Imani Perry speak at the Inside Literary Prize award ceremony.