ABSTRACT
This chapter is a case study that examines the Blount County Recovery Court Life Skills Program, which was developed by the Blount County Public Library (BCPL) for nonviolent felons struggling with substance abuse disorder and implemented in partnership with the Blount County Recovery Court (BCRC). Both the BCPL and BCRC are departments of the Blount County government and are located in Maryville, Tennessee. The BCRC is a program for nonviolent felons with substance abuse issues who apply and are accepted as participants in lieu of jail time. This program provides ongoing individual and group counseling, as well as weekly drug testing for all participants along with mandated requirements, including employment. Completion of this recovery program typically takes between two and three years. In an effort to support BCRC participants in their recovery, the BCPL developed a life-skills curriculum comprising eight 4- to 6-week modules on communication, finances, social interaction, physical health, nutrition, personal appearance, interviewing, and resume building. All modules are delivered by professional library staff using an instructional style that facilitates group learning, builds on the knowledge and life experiences of participants, and fosters relationships between participants and library staff. This case study narrative will review the curriculum design process, instructional methodology, and challenges presented by the participants in response to their life experiences. An evaluation of the success of the program and next steps will also be discussed.
