I worked at TDC for two years as a CO. I have not worked there in almost two decades but I remain close with people who do. I can tell you that the budgets for things like the Windham School System http://www.windhamschooldistrict.org have been cut in recent years. Libraries have been closed. And, that it is a smaller number of inmates that are actually enrolled and taking courses than what's been posted at the Wiki.

Yes, there is no "forced labor" but there definitely is "coerced labor", as there are some benefits that will be withheld from inmates who do not work. OTOH, many inmates are willing to work for the mere reason that it helps stave off the boredom.

There are few units with air conditioning, usually only medical units, and the units get dangerously hot during the summer. Your friend is lucky to have the commissary job, as it is one of few air conditioned places in most prison units.

AMAA, I'll check back here in a few.