# Texas Prisons Ban Hardback Books

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/el-paso-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7476707/texas-prisons-ban-hardback-books
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/el-paso-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7476707/texas-prisons-ban-hardback-books.md
Podcast: [El Paso News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!](https://stenobird.com/podcast/el-paso-news-today-2-min-news-the-daily-news-now-7476707)
Published: 2026-05-28T22:23:03+00:00
Episode link: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/33f02ac8-b186-4c5a-8352-d25848db7e0a.mp3
Audio file: https://api.fastcast.ai/audio/33f02ac8-b186-4c5a-8352-d25848db7e0a.mp3
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Duration seconds: 92

## Resource

Texas prisons are cracking down on book access, banning hardback and used books to curb drug smuggling—fentanyl and meth often hidden in pages—after hundreds of books tested positive last year. Now, all donations must go through the Windham School District for approval, sparking backlash from advocates who call it a disguised book ban that unfairly punishes all inmates for the actions of a few. Critics argue existing non-profit checks are sufficient and warn that contraband can enter via staff, not just mail. TDCJ defends the move, citing the difficulty of scanning hardbacks and potential false positives from stains, while opponents like the Texas Freedom to Read Project fear this harms rehabilitation and mental health. Support the show: Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN: advertise@thednn.ai This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting. Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai. View sources & latest updates: https://sources.thednn.ai/969b51ed875e26b8

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