Incarcerated Readers in Minnesota Cast Votes for Nation’s First Literary Prize Judged Exclusively by Incarcerated People
Freedom Reads brings the Inside Literary Prize and new Freedom Libraries to Minnesota correctional facilities
Freedom Reads, the national nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to literature in prisons, visited Minnesota this week as part of a six-state tour for the 2026 Inside Literary Prize — the first literary prize in the United States awarded exclusively by currently incarcerated people. Events took place at Minnesota Correctional Facility – Rush City on Tuesday, May 26, and Minnesota Correctional Facility – Shakopee on Wednesday, May 27.
At each facility, incarcerated judges gathered to discuss five shortlisted books drawn from the 2024 National Book Awards Finalists in Fiction and Translated Fiction, then cast their votes for the prize winner. The sessions concluded with literary readings by acclaimed authors: Roger Reeves at Rush City and Hannah Morrissey at Shakopee.
At MCF–Shakopee, Freedom Reads also opened eight new Freedom Libraries — carefully curated book collections placed directly in cellblocks — ensuring that literature is within reach for every reader. Built by formerly incarcerated men, the libraries feature titles spanning poetry, fiction, history, memoir, and more.
“These days, we’re returning to prisons we’ve been to before, remembering the work we started there and witnessing how those on the inside have kept it going. Returning to Minnesota has been a pleasure and a wonder,” says Freedom Reads Founder & CEO, Reginald Dwayne Betts.
“We are honored to continue our relationship with Freedom Reads and proud that MCF-Rush City and MCF-Shakopee judges are contributing to this year’s Inside Literary Prize. This award recognizes the humanity, insight and perspectives of people who are incarcerated while reinforcing the power of literature to inspire reflection, growth, and connection.
The installation of Freedom Reads libraries in each living unit at MCF-Shakopee further reinforces our commitment to providing meaningful access to books and learning opportunities for the people in our care. We are grateful to Freedom Reads for installing a library for MCF-Shakopee staff as well, recognizing the important role of correctional staff in this work. This partnership reflects the Minnesota Department of Corrections’ mission of transforming lives for a safer Minnesota by creating environments centered in rehabilitation and hope.”
— Crystal Brakke, Deputy Commissioner, Client Services and Supports, Minnesota Department of Corrections
The Inside Literary Prize is organized by Freedom Reads in partnership with the National Book Foundation, the Center for Justice Innovation, and Interbang Books co-owner, Lori Feathers. Across the six-state tour, hundreds of incarcerated readers at 12 prisons will participate in discussions and voting. The winner will be announced in August 2026.
About the Inside Literary Prize
The Inside Literary Prize is the first US-based literary prize awarded exclusively by currently incarcerated people. The 2026 Prize is organized by Freedom Reads, the National Book Foundation, the Center for Justice Innovation, and Interbang Books co-owner, Lori Feathers. The winner will be announced in August 2026.