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A book by ����ר�� assistant professor Ryan Williams, Ph.D., has recently been named as one of the most noteworthy reference titles published in 2024 by the American Library Association (ALA). 

The book, “The U.S. Criminal Justice System: A Reference Handbook,” has been . The list, selected annually by experts from the Collection Development and Evaluation Section of the Reference and User Services Association (RUSA), a division of the ALA, highlights valuable reference resources highly recommended for inclusion in public and academic library collections. 

Williams’ book, coauthored with Sarah Koon-Magnin, Ph.D., and published by Bloomsbury, provides an authoritative overview of the American criminal justice system. The comprehensive resource covers the system’s historical, legal, and philosophical foundations and explores dimensions of racial and economic inequality. The book, one of 10 titles selected nationally for this year’s list, also offers insights into daily life within the nation’s complex court and correctional systems.

“I’m honored that we were recognized by the ALA,” said Williams, assistant professor of criminology and sociology in ����ר��’s School of Social and Behavioral Sciences. “This recognition is not just about our book but about elevating crucial conversations about justice, equity, and systemic change.”

The reference handbook includes profiles of leading figures in criminal justice and social activism, related primary documents, suggestions for further reading, and a detailed chronology. It aims to explore the origins and evolution of America’s criminal justice system, examining the moral values and legal doctrines that have shaped the nation’s laws and prisons, as well as current problems, controversies, and reforms.

Michael Burman, Ph.D., director of the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, said the award not only demonstrates the book’s significant contributions to the national discourse surrounding criminal justice, but also how impressive it is for Williams to gain this type of recognition so early in his career.

“We are so pleased, but not surprised, by this recognition of Dr. Williams’ work,” Burman said. “His deep insights into the U.S. criminal justice system and his ability to share this with our students is exactly why we were so excited for him to join the criminology faculty this year. Ryan’s work is a leading example of the caliber and relevance of the social science scholarship conducted here at ����ר��.”

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