Australian prison libraries: minimum standard guidelines

6. Physical facilities

6.1 Each library shall be separately accommodated in an area set aside for this purpose.

6.2 The library shall where possible be sited centrally in relation to the cellblocks and in such a way as to minimise the need for escort and supervision.

6.3 The library should also be sited in the vicinity of the education centre, for library resources are a natural adjunct to education. However as far as possible the link with education facilities should be attained in such a way as not to inhibit regular use by all inmates and use at times when the education centre is closed.

6.4 The library shall be designed in such a way as to make resources available to prisoners in an environment which will encourage use without prejudice to security.

6.5 The library shall be of sufficient size to allow inmates to read there, search for specific information, and undertake continuous study. Provision shall also be made, either in the library or nearby, for small group meetings, discussion and other resource-based or related activities.

Other major requirements are:

• service area, for loans and inquiries
• staff workspace, which in larger establishments shall include a librarian's office
• shelving for books, journals and audio-visuals.

Space allocation will also be determined by requirements for equipment, which may include: a computer terminal and printer, photocopier, microfiche reader, videocassette recorder, etc.

6.6 Minimum standards for space allocation are as set out in Prison libraries: Library Association guidelines, Appendix V, Schedule of accommodation. This schedule is given as Appendix II of the present document.

6.7 A photocopier shall be situated in the library or nearby, for the use of inmates as well as library staff.

6.8 For other requirements of library accommodation, the British standards as set out in Prison libraries: Library Association guidelines, pp34-39, are adopted. These are given in Appendix III.