International Journal of Academic Library and Information Science
 

International Journal of Academic Library and Information Science

Vol. 4(10), pp. 299–306, December, 2016. 

ISSN: 2360-7858

DOI: 10.14662/IJALIS2016.069

Full Length Research

This study investigated information needs and resource utilization by inmates in medium security prison Makurdi Benue State. Information needs is an important concept that can affect every individuals life. The area of study was the prison located in Makurdi the Benue state capital. The study covered both the inmates in male and female wings of the prison. The population of the study constitutes four hundred and seventy five (475) inmates. Using the simple random sampling techniques, a sample of 50 inmates and 10 from the prison officials was decided. The questionnaire was the major tool of data collection. The descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage and mean) was used to summarise the data collected with the view to gaining better understanding of the data set. The options of the respondents were scored based on their responses using the 4-point Likert type rating scale. A cut-off mean or decision point of 2.50 and above was regarded as a favourable decision and decision point below 2.50 as unfavourable. From the result of the data analysis, the following findings as regard the subject was deduced; the research shows that the prison inmates get their information needs from the legal services, educational and recreation sources. The study revealed that the information services provided and used on a daily basis to prison inmates includes information literacy services, referral services, literature services and reference services. The study revealed that the level of satisfaction derived from the utilization of library books, workshop/seminars and literacy class’s resources and services were satisfied. The study revealed that prison inmates’ purpose for using information resources includes educational purpose, recreational purpose and to be aware of current issues. The study also revealed that the level of satisfaction derived from library books, workshop/seminars and literacy classes ‘utilization of resources and services was satisfied. The study revealed that problems encountered in the provision of services to prison inmates in Makurdi Medium Security Prison includes lack of infrastructures, lack of modern information technology, lack of funds, inadequate qualified staff and inadequate library books. The most worrisome problem identified was the issue of funding; this has posed a great challenge to the prison authorities. This is because, the resources and services which could have been provided was not possible as funds were grossly inadequate. The study further revealed that the strategies to overcome the problems in the provision of services to prison inmates includes; provision of separate library building, recruitment of qualified library staff, funds should be made available, prison libraries should diverse other ways of building their collection and modern information technology should be installed (satellite and internet).

Key words: Information needs, Resources, Utilization and Prison

 

Cite This Article As: Gbashima, NC, Akpe PD, Iorfa T (2016). Information Needs and Resources Utilization by Inmates in Medium Security Prison, Makurdi, Benue State. Inter. J. Acad. Lib. Info. Sci. 4(10): 299-306.

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