WESTFIELD DETENTION CENTER

Mount Holyoke students go once a week to read with the inmates (boys 13-20 years old). Those who are "detained" while awaiting trial are there from one day to six months. Students usually read songs or poems because there is not enough time to read longer books.  Though the intention is for the Mount Holyoke students to read with the boys, it often ends up reading to the boys as many of them struggle with poor reading skills.  The average boy in the Center reads at a fourth grade level. A Mount Holyoke student recently started a library at the center. So far the she has collected 1200 books, mostly donated. Many of the books collected so far are geared to help the boys prepare for the GED or SAT exams and many of the books are in Spanish. Cataloging the books began this summer.  The boys will be trained to finish cataloguing and assist in library work. 

The Detention Center has as a goal to rehabilitate the boys.  It doesn't help if they fall further behind while they are detained.  Be a mentor and help improve the boys' reading skills or donate some books!

Contact: Alyssa Nelson, nelso23a