Status of Prison Library and Information Resources and Facilities in Nigeria: A Focus at the East

Abstract

AbstractConsidering the need for sound library and information services to be provided to all in the society of today, this research examined the status of prison library and information resources and facilities in Nigeria with a focus on the southeast geopolitical zone. Seven prison libraries in five States in the zone were used for the study. An observation checklist/ guide was used to collect the required data about the availability, adequacy and functionality of the human and material resources and facilities in these prison libraries. Data generated from the survey was quantitatively analyzed and interpreted in relation to the population of prisoners using the American Library Association’s ASCLA Standards for Adult Correctional Institution and Prison Libraries as a “bench mark”. Findings showed that although the different prisons had apartments for library and had some resources and facilities in place, these resources and facilities were grossly inadequate considering the population of prisoners being served. Facilities like library buildings in these prisons were not to standard, and reading tables and chairs, shelves and library collections (books, periodicals) were all very inadequate. Further findings showed gross inadequacy in number and qualifications of their human resources - librarians and other library workers. Recommendations were made towards enhancing the prison library resources and facilities.