BARRIERS AND STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES AMONG INMATES IN DELTA CORRECTIONAL INSTITUTIONS

The study probed the challenges and possible solutions facing the effective utilization of information resources by inmates of Delta correctional institutions. The five correctional centers in Delta State were used for the study namely: Agbor, Kwale, Ogwashi-Ukwu, Sapele and Warri correctional centers. The study employed a descriptive structure using the multi sampling technique. The population was made up of 2,821 respondents and a sample size of 341 chosen. The researcher developed instrument for data collection was validated by experts. A test result reliability was conducted with a reliability index of 92 and 87 which were above 70. Data collected were analyzed using mean and percentages and the study revealed the absence of educative programmes, no enough reading materials, noise from within and outside the library and the library uncomfortable for reading. The study therefore recommended among other things, the introduction of educative programs, reaching to the government to provide funds to acquire more reading materials and if possible relocating the library to where there will be no noise.