Prisoners’ Information Dissemination by National Central Library in Tanzania: Challenges and the Way Forward

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study discussed challenges facing the Tanzania National Central Library (TNCL) in providing information services to prisoners. Data were collected using a structured interview and standardized questionnaire that were administered to 41 librarians. Face to Face interview was conducted with the Library Director and two Heads of Departments who were purposefully selected. Each interview lasted between 30 and 40 minutes. All 41 TNCL employees were included in the sample of the study. The quantitative data outputs were presented in the form of descriptive statistics, mainly in tabular form while qualitative data, which were subjected to content analysis were presented mainly in a narrative form. The findings indicated that TNCL uses various sources to disseminate information to prisoners. Moreover, they also indicated that TNCL faces several challenges including inadequate funds, poor infrasture systems, restrictive prison policies and lack of library buildings which is deterring provision of information services to prisoners. The study recommended that all of the raised challenges should be solved to facilitate information provision services to prisoners.