Prison libraries in Turkey: The results of a national survey


Dilek-Kayaoglu H., Demir G.

JOURNAL OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND INFORMATION SCIENCE, vol.46, pp.130-138, 2014 (SSCI) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 46
  • Publication Date: 2014
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/0961000614523635
  • Journal Name: JOURNAL OF LIBRARIANSHIP AND INFORMATION SCIENCE
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.130-138
  • Keywords: Correctional facility, prison, prison libraries, Turkey
  • Istanbul University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The purpose of this study is two-fold: first, to examine the historical development of prison libraries in Turkey in the context of relevant legislation; and second, to determine the current state of prison library services in Turkey on the basis of the results of a survey which was conducted throughout the country between January and April 2011. There are regulations, without the force of law, which provide for the establishment, management, and control of libraries in correctional facilities and there is a uniform organizational structure countrywide. However, the 2011 survey showed that, in practice, prison libraries are unsuccessful in providing a professional service.