Mission College Partnership Expands Access to Education at Elmwood Correctional Complex

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

SANTA CLARA, CA -- The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office will officially open a newly revitalized men’s library at the Elmwood Correctional Complex during a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, May 7, marking the completion of a yearlong effort to expand educational access inside the facility.

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The project began in mid‑2025 through a partnership between the Sheriff’s Office and Mission College’s Rising Scholars Program. An underused space once filled with outdated materials has been transformed into a modern library that now serves as a daily hub for learning and personal growth.

“Access to education should never be defined by circumstance, including incarceration,” Mission College President Dr. Seher Awan said. “Expanding access to books and learning inside our correctional facilities is essential to creating real pathways for transformation, second chances and stronger communities.”

The overhaul included removing old materials, gathering feedback from patrons and building a refreshed, organized collection. Funding from Rising Scholars supported new books across self‑help, recovery, legal resources, literature and Spanish‑language titles. Additional donations from community partners and Friends of the Library groups helped grow the library to about 3,500 books.

The redesigned space has quickly become one of the most popular areas in the Men’s Minimum Camp, drawing up to 50 visitors a day and offering expanded hours, comfortable new furniture and regular creative programming. More than 200 library cards have already been issued.

“Education, literacy and personal development are central to our restorative model,” Sheriff Robert Jonsen said. “By investing in spaces like this library, we’re providing meaningful opportunities for growth that support safer facilities and safer communities when individuals return home.”

Next steps include expanding access to individuals in dorms and higher‑security areas through mobile book deliveries and request‑form services.

The Sheriff’s Office is appreciative of the many partners who supported the project, including Rising Scholars staff, Mission College library personnel, Elmwood Rehabilitation Officers, custody staff, chaplains, SJSU library students and partner colleges.

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Media Advisory

Ribbon cutting for revitalized men’s library at Elmwood Correctional Complex

WHAT:
The Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office will host a ribbon‑cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the newly revitalized men’s library at the Elmwood Correctional Complex. The yearlong project expands educational access and enhances rehabilitative programming for individuals housed at the facility.

WHEN:
Thursday, May 7
Event begins at 9:30 a.m.
Media check‑in and setup at 9 a.m. (required for security screening)

WHERE:
Elmwood Correctional Complex
701 South Abel Street, Milpitas, CA

DETAILS:
The redesigned library, developed in partnership with Mission College’s Rising Scholars Program, features an updated collection of more than 3,500 books, expanded access hours, new furnishings, and creative programming. Sheriff Robert Jonsen, Supervisor Susan Ellenberg, Mission College leadership, and program partners will be available for interviews.

MEDIA RSVP:
Media outlets are encouraged to RSVP in advance to assist with security processing and onsite coordination.
Email: [email protected]

ON‑SITE REQUIREMENTS:
• Valid press credentials or ID required
• Early arrival at 9 a.m. recommended for security screening and equipment setup
• Parking and escort instructions will be provided upon RSVP

Benjamin Demers
Director of Marketing and Public Relations
[email protected]