Reading in prison: libraries in a penal setting

The Ministries of Culture and of Justice have signed conventions for promoting the setting up of libraries in a penal setting. In the regions, this aim has been made a reality by the Drac (Regional Department of Cultural Affairs) and the DRSP (Regional Departments of Penal Services) and put into action by the regional centres of the book or agencies, which cooperate in recruiting representatives. Prison libraries are becoming a reality, but their resources and development differ according to the willingness and the pugnacity of the Spip (Penal Services of Integration and Probation) that control them. However, much remains to be done, in practical operation as well as in the qualifications of the personnel, so that these libraries can find a place that is real and deserved.
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