NCJ Number
75396
Journal
Library Trends Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: (Summer 1977) Pages: 27-38
Date Published
1977
Length
12 pages
Annotation
A discussion of the library needs of prison inmates indicates that they desire informational over recreational reading and suggests how to improve collections and services.
Abstract
The reading interests of inmates reflect great variety, travel, history, poetry, and the arts to health, the law, and sports. Inmates show a strong preference for deep rather then recreational reading and a greater than normal desire for information. Their reading tastes are attributed to a desire for self-improvement, a great need for information due to their isolation, and prison group affiliations. Improving or augmenting prison libraries increases inmate interest in books. Inmates report interest in book discussion groups and other library activities which improve motivation and self-respect. Prison libraries can also provide much information, although they should first of all teach basic research and bibliographic skills. Inmates should become involved in prison library book selection, and their below-average literacy should be considered when books are selected. A complete library program for a prison, would include discussion groups, structured library use courses, interlibrary loan, readers' interest profiles, and bibliographies for both staff and residents. Also recommended are tutor librarians for individualized assistance and referral booklets with information about food, legal help, housing, and other matters relevant to life upon release. Forty-seven references are included.