Importance of the Libraries in Kosovo Prisons.

Abstract

This study aims to present the importance and current situation of the libraries in Kosovo Correctional Service; their function and effect on prisoners’ daily lives, rehabilitation, well-being and informal education. To reach this purpose three questions were raised: Do libraries help with prisoners’ informal learning, rehabilitation and reintegration in KCS? Are the prisoners willing to loan books from prison libraries? Do prison libraries in Kosovo offer enough books in different languages for prisoners who come from different ethnic and religious backgrounds? This research is presented through qualitative data, a literature review and interviews as instruments of the research dedicated to prison libraries within KCS and their effect on prisoners’ wellbeing and education. The study results showed that prison libraries impact positively the lives of the incarcerated population while they are paying their debts to society in Kosovo prisons for the crimes committed. Prisoners are eager to borrow medium number of books present in different languages and genres offered to them within Correctional and Detention centers all around Kosovo