Training and Research in Correctional Librarianship

• NCJ Number: 75397
• Journal: Library Trends Volume: 26 Issue: 1 Dated: (Summer 1977) Pages: 39-52
• Author(s): H C McClaskey
• Date Published: 1977
• Length: 14 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This article on the qualities and training of prison librarians suggest personality and education standards and professional education programs, and reviews research into the library needs of prisons.

Abstract

In addition to possessing the qualities of all good librarians, correctional librarians must have broad sympathies, be unpredjudiced, flexible, and future-oriented, gain the respect of both inmates and prison personnel, and reflect the growing social awareness and increased concern for the needs of inmates. Opinion is also growing that correctional libraries need special programs in addition to general library education. New correctional standards oriented toward individualized treatment and rehabilitation rather than security and custody urge that correctional librarians be involved in institutional planning and rehabilitation, be trained in legal reference work, be paid as other librarians and prison professionals, and be compensated for continuing education. Standards require a degree in library science, 3 to 5 years prior experience in institutional libraries, and sensitivity to current social problems in prisons. Standards are also suggested for paraprofessional library personnel and prisons are urged to compete for the best librarians. Correctional library education should emphasize service to the disadvantaged. Although studies show that library education pays little attention to the needs of offenders, instructional methods which produce sensitivity and workshops or projects on special groups are valuable to correctional library training. Research also indicates that correctional institutions critically lack adequate funding for libraries, although prison libraries have been improved considerably due to legislation passed in the 1960's. Major research has also been done on bibliotherapy, or using book discussions for rehabilitation, and a few other topics. Twenty-two references are included.