Realising Rehabilitation and Social Inclusion through Correctional Service Libraries in South Africa

Abstract

A need to correct the behaviour and deeds of people who have been incarcerated has been part of the plans of the South African government for a number of years now. Shifting from being punishment to rehabilitation centres, the correctional centres aim to rehabilitate and prepare inmates to be included and accepted by society beyond their incarceration period. Correctional library and information services provide a critical structure and support point by facilitating the attainment and improvement of education and providing rehabilitation and occupational skills to inmates during their time in these centres. This paper seeks to illustrate that correctional service libraries can be a critical support structure for rehabilitation and social inclusion of inmates in South African correctional centres. The paper also suggests how the correctional service libraries could be mainstreamed for correctional and developmental goals of inmates in South African correctional centres. This conceptual paper also adds to the body of knowledge that advocates for the important role of correctional service libraries in the rehabilitation of inmates. Finally, the paper aims to provide insights to policymakers on the role of correctional service libraries in shaping the lives of the inmates and people development.