History and Overview
In a Changing Lives through Literature (CLTL) program, individuals on probation meet with a judge, a probation officer, and a facilitator (typically a literature professor) in a college seminar-type setting, to discuss reading (and sometimes writing) assignments. CLTL is premised on a belief in the transformative power of literature, and the value of sharing ideas in a group setting.
Probation officers, facilitators, and/or judges may initiate CLTL programs, and programs may take a variety of forms, depending on the needs of the particular community. Some CLTL programs are limited to men or women probationers; some are open to all genders; and some are designed specifically for juvenile offenders or for incarcerated individuals. A unique program also exists for families through the Berkshire Probate and Family Court.
Judicial involvement and participation are critical components of a successful CLTL program. The judge completes all assignments, attends each meeting, and participates actively in the discussion. The judge also sponsors and orchestrates the graduation ceremony at the end of the program, which typically takes place in the judge’s courtroom, and includes the presentation of a diploma and a book to each graduate, as well as remarks by the judge, the probation officer, the facilitator, and those graduates who wish to speak.
Judges who participate in the CLTL program and are required to leave their court before 4:30 p.m. to attend a class may use judicial education leave to account for their time.
In addition, judges and MPS employees who must travel a distance to get to a CLTL class may be reimbursed for their travel expenses at the current trial court mileage rate.
A CLTL program will succeed when the judge, probation officer and facilitator all believe in the power of words, characters, and finely spun tales to capture the reader’s attention, introduce fresh thoughts, and plant seeds of ambition. Participants in the program will ideally develop a sense of personal growth, a sense of hope, and a continuing curiosity to learn more about themselves and others.
Additional program information can be found at:
Changing Lives Through Literature - Philosophy and Testimonials