Corrections provides furniture for presidential library and museum 

[NOV. 3, 2004]  The Illinois Department of Corrections announced last week that its Illinois Correctional Industries is one of the furniture providers for the new Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Springfield. The presidential library and museum brings together the world's largest collection of documentary material related to the life of the 16th president.

"The Illinois Department of Corrections is pleased to be an integral part of portraying one of America's most renowned presidents by providing quality products designed and manufactured by inmates for the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum," IDOC Director Roger E. Walker Jr. said. "The endeavor of the department's inmates to provide the quality of product that fits into the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is a proud moment for Illinois. It is also a proud moment for the Illinois Department of Corrections. What better way to demonstrate the rehabilitation of inmates on their return journey to society as useful members of the community."

Inmates participating in ICI's program built a combination of desks, executive chairs, modular furniture, filing cabinets and tables for the library and museum. These ICI products will be prominently used in the Lincoln collection reception room and the curator's office. The custom cherry workstations as well as trestle tables and chairs will be featured throughout the library.

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"The Illinois Department of Corrections is committed to taking prison-based treatment and re-entry management to the next level of performance," Walker said. "As part of that focus on successful re-entry management is the developing and operating of programs that will improve an inmate's ability to find meaningful employment upon release. ICI programs offer inmates the opportunity to develop usable skills and positive work habits. Ultimately, these benefits contribute to both rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. Through ICI programs, inmates are able to build their self-esteem and become positive members of society upon release."

State, county and municipal agencies and other public institutions qualify as ICI customers. Not-for-profit corporations chartered in Illinois may also purchase ICI-produced goods and services. For more information, please refer to www.idoc.state.il.us or contact ICI at [phone], ext. 7017.

[News release from the Illinois Department of Corrections]