Prison and Reformatory Periodicals

Penal Publications at the Library of Michigan

One of the distinctive collections at the Library of Michigan includes penal publications—periodicals produced by and for incarcerated persons in jails, prisons, and reformatories. In some instances, these items were also created specifically for distribution outside the institutions.

These periodicals often feature a blend of content, including contributions from the institutional administration as well as local news, sports updates, comics, legislative changes, institutional procedures, and self-help articles. Those incarcerated frequently provided creative contributions such as poems, stories, and personal articles. Notably, many Michigan institutions have produced these publications, including Jackson State Prison, the Industrial School for Boys in Lansing, the Branch Prison in Marquette, and the Girl’s Training School. While some institutions only experimented with this form of publication and released only a few issues, others contributed more extensively. The oldest penal publication currently housed in the Library’s collection is an 1893 issue of the Bi-Monthly Bulletin from the Industrial School for Boys in Lansing. The bulk of the collection, however, dates from 1930 to 1990.

These publications provided incarcerated persons opportunities to develop their skills in writing, publishing, and printing, while also serving as a creative outlet. At some institutions penal publications were encouraged for its therapeutic benefits.

For researchers and families, penal publications offer an invaluable window into incarcerated life, reflecting the voices and experiences of those within these institutions.

Contributing to this Collection

If you own or have access to publications from Michigan state government penal, residential, or caretaking institutions, we would love to talk to you about opportunities to contribute to this collection.  The Library of Michigan is the primary repository for Michigan state government information where these materials reside and is dedicated to preserving a comprehensive historical legacy of this rare and unique information.  Contact us if you have any questions or comments. 

Penal Publications by Institution and Title

For the sake of organization this list is ordered by location first, then institution, then title. Nearly all of these collections are incomplete.