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There has been a long, though often little explored, relationship between prisons and libraries. In the 19th century, in-prison libraries were introduced for evangelical purpose. Now they are seen as a key element in raising literacy levels and supporting prisoner education programmes which are ultimately aimed at rehabilitation and reintegration. Many public libraries have strong links with prison libraries and provide support. However, in Whanganui, New Zealand, the district library has entered an unusual partnership with the local prison where prisoners from the self-care unit regularly visit the library. This case study explores perceptions of both prisoners and district librarians about the project. It reports on prisoners' perceptions of and use of the library. Librarians give their views on how the system works and what could make it even better.

Contributes to scholarship on broadcast deregulation and news-source diversity, tracing sourcing patterns on prime-time news across a 12-year period encompassing the deregulation of broadcasting in New Zealand. Finds that increasing commercialism resulted in shorter sound bites; reduced use of official cited sources; and a greater use of nonelite or enterprise sources. (SR)

States that New Zealand's public hospitals, converted into Crown Health Enterprises (CHEs) and required to operate within commercial restraints, were the target of attacks from politicians, medical organizations, community groups, and media. Examines press coverage of two similar CHEs over three months. Shows proactive media relations paid off in terms of positive press coverage and in representation of the CHEs' views. (PA)

Peace, Power & Politics: How New Zealand Became Nuclear Free, by Maire Leadbeater. Dunedin: Otago University Press, 2013, 344pp., ISBN 9781877578588 JOURNALISM'S focus on major political figures and high level [...]

Twenty Palmerston North, New Zealand Pacific Island women were surveyed in 1997 regarding their attitudes on communicating about cervical. The study found a high level of awareness regarding cervical screening programs. Participants thought the most useful way of receiving information was through face to face interaction by general practitioners, the doctor's nurse and the local university health service. Many felt it was inappropriate to have a Pacific Islander as a smear-taker due to concerns of confidentiality.