My research focuses on the information behaviours of prisoners, particularly those serving long-term sentences in maximum-security prisons. My current research explores the sensitive context of information need; highlighting social, affective and practical barriers to information access in prisons, which contribute to prisoners living in information impoverished circumstances. I am also interested in exploring the potential for cultural activity to support recognition and articulation of information needs, particularly those of a sensitive nature, and the potential support role of the prison library in relation to this.