Podcast Summary: People I (Mostly) Admire – "Reading Dostoevsky Behind Bars (Update)"

Introduction and Background

In this poignant episode of People I (Mostly) Admire, hosted by Steve Levitt of Freakonomics Radio and Stitcher, listeners are introduced to Reginald Dwayne Betts, a remarkable individual who has transformed his life after serving over eight years in prison from the ages of 16 to 24. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of his release, Reginald shares his journey from incarceration to becoming a MacArthur Genius Award winner, Yale Law School graduate, poet, and founder of the nonprofit organization Freedom Reads.

Founding of Freedom Reads

At [01:41], Reginald delves into the inception of Freedom Reads, an organization dedicated to building libraries within prisons. His mission is to create spaces where inmates can commune over books, thereby disrupting the bleak and isolating environment of prisons. Reginald explains:

“Freedom Reads is an organization I started to build libraries in prisons. We make bookcases that are handmade out of walnut, cherry, and maple... We want to bring nature into the space to give you something to look at and remind yourself that you still live in the world.” [02:10]

So far, Freedom Reads has established 172 libraries across 34 prisons in 10 states, providing inmates with access to a diverse collection of literature.

Designing and Implementing Freedom Libraries

Reginald emphasizes the thoughtful design behind the libraries, aiming to foster community and reduce the sense of hopelessness commonly associated with incarceration. At [07:26], he describes the bookcases:

“We wanted people to not look at books in isolation. We partnered with architects to create modular, curved bookcases that encourage multiple people to browse together, fostering conversation and community.” [07:26]

These libraries are not merely collections of books but are architectural statements intended to transform the prison environment into a more humane and engaging space.

Challenges in Scaling and Funding

Scaling Freedom Reads presents significant challenges, primarily due to financial constraints. Reginald discusses the ambitious goals and the resources required to expand the initiative:

“Each of our Freedom Libraries costs about $25,000, which includes building the library and purchasing books. To reach our goal of 2,000 libraries, we need to raise $30 million.” [15:01]

Despite securing initial support, scaling up requires substantial funding. Reginald shares his strategic plans to increase the number of libraries annually, aiming for 300 to 350 libraries per year over the next three years.

Measuring Impact and Feedback

One of the critical aspects Reginald tackles is the difficulty in quantifying the impact of Freedom Reads. He candidly admits:

“It's difficult to know how many lives you change with the books if you're changing the way inmates are perceiving themselves. It’s just hard to quantify.” [21:13]

To address this, Freedom Reads employs feedback loops, such as direct letters from inmates and organizing events where writers perform and engage with prisoners. These interactions help gauge the program's effectiveness beyond traditional metrics.

Personal Experiences of Reginald in Prison

Reginald opens up about his tumultuous time in prison, highlighting the challenges and the moments that shaped his resolve to create Freedom Reads. He recounts instances of being sent to solitary confinement and the pivotal moment when a book changed his life:

“I decided to be a writer. But what birthed the Freedom Library was realizing how much books could transform a person's spirit even in the darkest moments.” [30:58]

His narrative underscores the profound role that literature and human connection play in rehabilitation and personal transformation.

Reflections on the Prison System and Redemption

Throughout the conversation, Reginald reflects on the broader implications of the prison system and society's reluctance to grant second chances. He shares his frustrations with institutions that deny him opportunities despite his accomplishments:

“It seems to me that in a just society, once you've served your time, the slate should be wiped clean. But that's so clearly not true.” [36:33]

Reginald advocates for a society that embraces redemption, mercy, and the potential for individuals to rebuild their lives post-incarceration.

Current Projects and Future Plans

Marking the 20th anniversary of his release, Reginald celebrates personal and professional milestones, including his solo show "Felon: An American Washy Tail" and the publication of his fifth poetry collection, Dog Rule. He proudly announces:

“With every book that's purchased, I'm donating 54 cents to Freedom Reads because I believe that this represents freedom beginning with a book.” [48:29]

Conclusion

Reginald Dwayne Betts' story is a testament to resilience, transformation, and the enduring power of literature. Through Freedom Reads, he is not only changing his life but also offering a pathway for countless others within the prison system to find solace, education, and hope. This episode serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact that one individual can have in fostering systemic change.

Notable Quotes

• “Freedom Reads is an organization I started to build libraries in prisons... We want to bring nature into the space to give you something to look at and remind yourself that you still live in the world.” — Reginald Dwayne Betts [02:10]

• “We wanted people to not look at books in isolation... fostering conversation and community.” — Reginald Dwayne Betts [07:26]

• “It's difficult to know how many lives you change with the books... It’s just hard to quantify.” — Reginald Dwayne Betts [21:13]

• “It seems to me that in a just society, once you've served your time, the slate should be wiped clean. But that's so clearly not true.” — Reginald Dwayne Betts [36:33]

• “With every book that's purchased, I'm donating 54 cents to Freedom Reads... freedom beginning with a book.” — Reginald Dwayne Betts [48:29]

Final Thoughts

Reginald Dwayne Betts embodies the spirit of redemption and the profound impact of education and literature in transforming lives. His work with Freedom Reads not only provides inmates with valuable resources but also challenges societal perceptions of incarceration and rehabilitation. This episode offers a deeply engaging and insightful look into the life of someone who has turned adversity into an opportunity to inspire and enact meaningful change.