Dear Colleagues, 

I would like to invite library professionals working in public libraries in Michigan to participate in the IMLS-funded Second Chance at the Library research study (RE-254892-OLS-23). This study aims to investigate how services and programs offered by public library professionals may support the information needs and practices of formerly incarcerated individuals. We are also examining the training needs of public library staff who would like to better serve formerly incarcerated individuals in their communities. 

I am seeking volunteers who would like to share their experiences assisting patrons in connecting with social services and/or obtaining literacy and digital health literacy skills. Volunteers with experience developing and providing programming and/or services for formerly incarcerated individuals are preferred but not required. Participation involves a one-on-one interview (virtual or in-person) estimated to take 45-90 minutes. Each volunteer who completes an interview will receive a $30 visa gift card. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

• Be aged 18 or older

• Currently employed as a library professional at a public library in the state of Michigan

*Note: Volunteers do not need to hold a master's degree in library science or a related field to be eligible for this study

If you or someone you know may be interested in participating, please complete the eligibility screener available at this link: https://bit.ly/2ndchancelibrary (3-minutes to complete)

If you have any questions about the study, please contact a project team member by emailing misecondchance@umich.edu. To learn more about the study, please visit www.michigansecondchance.com 

Kind regards,

Megan Threats, PhD, MSLIS (Principal Investigator)

Assistant Professor, University of Michigan School of Information