Books Behind Bars

If you’ve ever thought prison would be a good place to catch up on your reading, then think again. While all prisons in New Zealand are required to have libraries for use by their prisoners, the quality and the range of books can vary greatly. Sometimes it comes down to the energy of the people, mostly volunteers, who run them. On Spectrum this week, Justin Gregory goes behind bars to meet a former bookstore owner who has spent years of her life helping prisoners improve their reading skills and change their lives.

Wellington prison maximum security block. (Courtesy Corrections Department)

Anyone wishing to send books or requiring information should contact Patricia.morrison@corrections.govt.nz