Role of prison libraries in rehabilitation of the prisoners in central prisons of Kerala

Abstract

The present study, “Role of Prison Libraries in Rehabilitation of Prisoners in Central Prisons of Kerala,” investigates the contribution of library services to the rehabilitation of prisoners within Kerala’s correctional system. Guided by reformative and humanistic penal philosophies and drawing upon the theoretical perspectives of Bentham, Foucault, and Goffman, the study situates the prison library as an instrument of educational, psychological, and social transformation rather than a peripheral welfare facility. The objectives of the research were to assess the current status and infrastructure of prison libraries in Kerala’s central prisons; to examine prison officials’ perceptions of their role in rehabilitation; to analyse the extent of institutional support and constraints; and to develop strategies for strengthening the rehabilitative potential of prison libraries. A mixed-method design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches within a pragmatic research paradigm. Data were collected from 381 prison officials, 11 prisoners assigned duty in libraries across the Central Prisons and Correctional Homes of Poojappura (Thiruvananthapuram), Viyyur (Thrissur), and Kannur and 6 higher officials from prison headquarters, through structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and correlation tests, while qualitative responses were thematically interpreted to validate and enrich the statistical results. Findings reveal that prison libraries in Kerala function with minimal infrastructure and resources but maintain a positive presence in the rehabilitation process. Although professional librarians are absent and digital facilities are lacking, the majority of prison officials acknowledge the constructive influence of libraries in promoting literacy, emotional stability, discipline, and self-confidence among inmates. Library reading habits were found to enhance moral reasoning, reduce stress, and foster pro-social behaviour, confirming their therapeutic and educational value. The study identified financial constraints, inadequate policy enforcement, and limited administrative support as major barriers to effective functioning. Despite these limitations, both officials and inmates perceived libraries as safe, intellectually stimulating spaces conducive to reflection and behavioural change. The research concludes that the prison library is a vital yet underutilized component of correctional education and rehabilitation in Kerala. To maximize its impact, the study recommends the formulation of a Kerala Prison Library Policy aligned with IFLA (2023) standards; appointment of qualified librarians; introduction of bibliotherapy and reading-circle programmes; multilingual and inclusive collections; digital modernization; and collaborative partnerships with universities, NGOs, and public libraries. The study contributes to the fields of Library and Information Science, correctional education, and social rehabilitation. It reaffirms that the right to read and learn is fundamental to human dignity and that prison libraries, when adequately supported, can serve as bridges between confinement and reintegration transforming prisons into learning communities and reaffirming society’s commitment to reform rather than retribution.