A Comparative Analysis of Prison Library Services in Central Jails of Uttar Pradesh: An Inmate’s Perspective
Keywords:
Prison library, Library services, Central jail, Inmate perspective, India, Agra, VaranasiAbstract
India's vast penitentiary system, housing over half a million inmates across numerous facilities, underscores the critical need for effective prison rehabilitation programs. This study examines the library services offered specifically by Varanasi and Agra central jail in Uttar Pradesh. Study focused to find role of library in education and access to diverse reading material by the inmates. A comprehensive survey and comparative analysis have been performed to evaluate inmate’s perceptions, library objectives, service satisfaction levels, and the availability of reading materials. Key findings highlight significant variations between Varanasi and Agra Central Jails in terms of inmate perceptions and utilization patterns of library services. While Varanasi inmates emphasize the educational aspect, Agra inmates exhibit higher satisfaction with library services. Disparities also exist in perceptions regarding the availability of updated materials and inmate preferences for reading materials. These findings underscore the importance of tailored strategies to enhance library services and inmate experiences in correctional facilities. By addressing inmates' unique needs and preferences, prison authorities can optimize the role of library to promote education, recreation, and skill development among inmates for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
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