Floating libraries and Bible rolling papers: accessing books and information while incarcerated

Abstract

Introduction. Prisons are environments of restriction, including what and how inmates access books and information. As federal prisons in Canada do not allow internet access, physical books and prison libraries are of particular importance. This research, part of a larger project looking at inmate reading, explores how inmates access books and information.

Method. Interviews were conducted with 9 current inmates who were incarcerated in a men’s minimum-security institution. A researcher and a research assistant conducted the interviews; the research assistant was a former inmate of that facility. Participants had been incarcerated from a few months to over 20 years and had come from a range of higher-security prisons.

Analysis. Preliminary analysis of the interviews was conducted using qualitative content analysis and categories and themes were developed through iterative discussions between authors.

Results. Throughout the interviews, participants discussed the variability of experiences accessing books and information between prisons, highlighting the importance of understanding the context. Two themes were developed. The first covered the creative ways inmates access physical-only materials and the numerous barriers that exist. The second covered the need for inmates to navigate official prison policies and unofficial prison culture in order to access materials.

Conclusion. While some of the barriers to access were anticipated, participants also discussed the unique ways that inmates develop to increase their access to materials. Individuals (prison staff and inmates) can make a significant difference to access, and dedicated resources are required. Learning the specific institutional culture is key.