The most serious problem confronting correctional institutions is recidivism, the proneness of many criminals to continue a life of crime. A recent study estimated that 30 to 75 percent of the offenders leaving prison would return within 5 years. Data were collected by a literature review, correspondence with administrators of prerelease programs, and questionnaires distributed to state and federal correctional institutions. Information on a variety of experimental programs was collected. One was the work-release concept which allows the inmate to be employed in a nearby community and return to the institution at night. Furloughs permit prisoners to visit a designated place or places for a period not to exceed 30 days and return to the institution at the end of that period, and half-way houses provide a place to live and other types of assistance to ex-inmates immediately after their release from prison. Other types of experimental programs are open institutions, reception center parole, and intensive community treatment. A bibliography, sample questionnaire, and list of institutions with prerelease programs are appended. (BC)