Top five most popular fiction and non-fiction titles in South Australian prison libraries in 2020

Fantasy, adventure and crime novels were most popular among South Australian prisoners in 2020, while there was a surprising favourite non-fiction title.

Fantasy, adventure and crime novels were the most popular among South Australian prisoners in 2020, while the humble dictionary was the most popular non-fiction title.

The Department for Correctional Services (DCS) has revealed the five most frequently borrowed fiction and non-fiction books from libraries at the state’s nine prisons last year.

The most popular fiction title was The Enemy, one a series of books by Lee Child that focus on the investigations of military policeman Jack Reacher.

The next most popular were City of Ashes, followed by the global bestseller Game of Thrones, The Kings Buccaneer and Conqueror - Wolf of the Plains.

The most popular non-fiction titles were the Collins English Dictionary, Psychology by Wayne Weiten, I can Draw, Atomic Habits and Rich Dad’s Conspiracy of the Rich.

All prisons have libraries, and prisoners are able to borrow books in the same way they would at a community library.

The most popular books among prisoners have been revealed, including those at Yatala Labour Prison.

A DCS spokesman said it was important prisoners only have access to reading material that is appropriate for their rehabilitation and developments.

“Prior to books being placed in the library, all books are assessed to ensure they are considered appropriate and consistent with the standards that should be applied in a prison environment,” he said.

“DCS restricts and prohibits certain books, magazines, images and publications from distribution to prisoners which are considered to pose a risk to prison security.”

Such banned content includes true crime, books with graphic depictions of sex or violence, and books that teach readers how to manufacture contraband such are drugs, alcohol or explosives.

Prison libraries are run by the prison’s education coordinator. Some have volunteers who assist in their operation, and others employ prisoners to work as librarians.