NCJ Number
166499
Journal
Journal of Correctional Education Volume: 47 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1996) Pages: 127-132
Date Published
1996
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article describes a network of support centers for foreign languages that is the basis of a library service for multicultural groups in Dutch prisons.
Abstract
In the Netherlands many prison inmates are unable to understand Dutch, which isolates them. The authorities can ease the time in prison for these multicultural prisoners by providing them books in their own language. To avoid the expense of creating a diverse collection of foreign language books in every prison, the Netherlands has created a network of centers of support for foreign languages. The article describes Dutch multicultural society, migrant movements, the multicultural aspects of the Dutch jail population, and the Dutch prison library service. The article provides details on the network of support centers for foreign languages (currently holding materials in 39 languages) and on some libraries that are support centers. Suggested improvements to the network include establishing procedures to exchange information and guidelines about popular books and new literature, and arranging for foreign libraries to buy books in their own languages at the request of Dutch libraries for shipment to them. Dutch libraries would provide the same service for the foreign libraries.