'ABC' and the Italian prison libraries

Costanzo, Emanuela

IFLA Council and General Conference / .
(ReLIS:jul:juljin:6641)

Abstract:

“ABC” – the Italian Association of Prison Libraries – was formed in the year 2000. The author describes the research and collaboration of many librarians that led to the establishment of ABC. Since the Italian legal system does not provide for the management and financial support of prison libraries, a small group of librarians and dedicated volunteers decided to form a mutual support network and to work as advocates for the improvement and expansion of library services to prisoners. Some of their most significant accomplishments are described, and the author also discusses the problems and prejudices encountered by the ABC pioneers. While ABC is an official unit within the AIB (Italian Library Association), it is also striving to achive a higher profile at the international level and is interested in working with IFLA to promote professionalism in prison library service.

Creation: 2003
Keywords: Bibliotecas de prisiones ; Italia

 (go top)