Inmates’ access to the library varies by institutions, with some libraries operating day and
evening hours, seven days a week, to any inmate who is on recreation, while others have limited
hours and more controlled access. Librarians must also deliver services to inmates who are
segregated from the general population eitherfor protection or because of institutional
infractions. Inmates on segregated status receive library services by writing requests using the in
house institution mail, or if the institution allows inmate clerks in the cell blocks, they collect and
deliver services at scheduled times. Services to segregated units are challenging for librarians
because the correctional staff are often lackadaisical or whimsical in their manner or support of
the service provider.