The Bannock County Sheriff’s Office is holding a book drive for the inmates in their custody.
On Saturday, June 24 people are invited to drop off paperback and softbound books of all genres at the Sheriff’s Office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“We are exploring a variety of ways to improve the environment here and help return the people in our custody to the community in a better condition than they arrived in, and literacy programs are a great way to do that,” said Lyle Thurgood, captain of the detention division.
Books must be paperback or softbound for the inmates’ safety. Donations will be collected in the front lobby of the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, located at 5800 S 5th Avenue in Pocatello.
Studies have long shown the importance of reading for incarcerated people and how it can positively impact their futures outside of jail.
Since taking over operations at the Bannock County Detention Center, Captain Thurgood has implemented programs to improve the environment for inmates and staff, including a program to help inmates work towards achieving their GEDs.
