Library services for incarcerated persons: A survey of recent trends and challenges in prison libraries in Croatia

Abstract

The article contributes to the professional discussion of prison librarianship in the context of intellectual freedom and social justice paradigm. It presents results from a nationwide survey of the prison libraries in Croatia. Survey was conducted in 2013 through a mailed questionnaire that received a 91.3% response rate. The study set off to answer the following research questions: How are Croatian prison libraries organised and managed? and What kind of library collections and services are offered to incarcerated persons in Croatia? The results show that almost all correctional institutions in Croatia provide some kind of minimal library services to their inmates. However, prison libraries in Croatia are not professionally managed nor are they regularly funded. Further, their collections are developed mainly through gifts and there is almost no evidence of any systematic programming which would lead to constructive and creative use of prisoners’ free time. Although there are some shining examples, it is evident that prison libraries in Croatia are underdeveloped and in need of a new organisational and financial model. Authors conclude with concrete recommendations for improved library services to this marginalised population in Croatia.