To select or not to select : an investigation into the factors that impact on selection in New Zealand prison libraries

Abstract

This research investigated factors that impact on selection and the extent to which these factors have influenced selection in prison libraries in New Zealand. There has been very little information available on this subject, particularly on research conducted in New Zealand. Ten prison libraries/resources centres were studied and interviews were conducted with the librarians in each prison. The researcher visited eight prison libraries, conducted a telephone interview with one prison librarian and obtained written clarification of the research questions from another prison librarian. The major findings of this study are that the use of selection statements in prison libraries in NewZealand is not common, and that funding, censorship, prison environment and literacy levels have a significant impact on selection. Inmate needs and interests are also taken into account by librarians when selecting materials for inmate libraries.