This article focuses on the evolution of prison library services in the United States and the changes in the roles and purposes of prison libraries over the last two centuries. The development of standards and guidelines for prison libraries under the leadership of the American Library Association and the American Correctional Association is discussed. The characteristics of the offender population are described as well as how prison libraries have responded to the specific needs of this special user group. The challenges of the unique prison environment are highlighted, especially as they relate to the delivery of library services. Examples of successful library services and programs are included, with descriptions of technology projects, resources for prison library staff, collection development policies, law library services, literacy programs, and resources to assist inmates with the transition back to society.

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This article has been adapted from a paper presented by the author in Cienfuegos, Cuba, November 1999 at the invitation ofUNEAC (U nion Nacional de Escritores y Aristas Cubano) and the provincial public library in Cienfuegos.In cooperation with other prison programs the prison library plays a critical part in the education and rehabilitation of incarcerated persons. The background, roles, services, and ways in which the modern prison library can meet the needs of both inmates and prison staff are examined in depth.International and national standards exist as tools that cover all aspects of prison library operations.The most vital link in the operation of such libraries is having competent, well-trained, enthusiastic, and patient library staff equipped with the special human skills needed to deal with difficult prison patrons.

ton. He is Chair of IFLA's Asia and Oceania Section. His interests include collection management, curriculum development and distance education, including Web-enabled distance learning for developing countries, and all aspects of information work in the developing world. He is Director of the joint New Zealand-Viet Nam project, Information Networks for the Future and special adviser to the National Economics University in Viet Nam for its curriculum development project in information management. He may be

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