The Network has created an extensive directory of suppliers for public and prison libraries, with brief details of each. You can browse the list at this link.
Foreign language stock
A common challenge for prison library staff is ordering stock in foreign languages. Below are some suppliers library staff have used to order foreign language stock. We will continue to update this page. If you have suggestions of how to source foreign language material please get in touch to let us know.
Star Books is a leading supplier of foreign language books. Note that they order stock in from abroad so it can take a while for stock to arrive.
Grant & Cutler at Foyles has a large selection of foreign language books, but can be expensive.
Borderline Books collects surplus books from publishers and the public, redistributing them to prisons and other organisations supporting those in need. It is possible to request foreign language books. Books are free but you will have to pay for shipping.
Haven Books supplies educational books to people in prison. They provide dictionaries in English and other languages for those whose first language is not English. You can contact them at havendistribution@yahoo.co.uk
Another option is to find second hand books in foreign languages. In this case, it is important to be certain of the content of the book. For example, you could buy a translation of an English title to be sure about the content.