This morning I went to an assignment in the Park and Ride near Durham. Anyone would have thought I was selling dodgy passports or something. In fact I was meeting the librarians from one of the Durham prisons. This arrangement was less complicated than arranging for me to come to the prison itself and - since the rain stayed away until we were finished - it worked very well. They were really delighted to receive approximately 300 books in 12 different languages. There is quite a percentage of people in prison for whom English is not their first language, so being able to offer a good range of languages is good for all concerned.
We also brought a few books specifically for the women's prison and next time will bring more self-help psychology books as they are trying to encourage people to understand their problems rather than just drugging them up to keep them passive.
In Amsterdam we recently met a group who do yoga with prisoners, so perhaps I should see if they are able to come here as well.
Newcastle Women's Aid, to whom we have given books in the past are enthusiastic about receiving more regular donations.
The West End Refugee Service was pleased to be offered (new) childrens books for their 'festive week' packages. So we will deliver those next week. They work hard to support destitute families, giving them food packages and 'pocket money' to the best of their abilities. Of course young women with babies have extra expenses which older mothers don't have to contend with - a supply of nappies and sanitary napkins. These items are rarely donated - being less obvious requirements and perhaps less romantic than clothes and other items.
So I am seeing which of the local supermarkets or other businesses might be prepared to donate some of these things, or at least give a generous discount for a bulk purchase.
Whoever comes up trumps will be loudly praised in a forthcoming blog!
Tomorrow is another day.... oh no it's not - tomorrow is today already!
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