Liz Gunn and Tracy McKechnie, KCC prison library assistants at HMP Swaleside, were presented with a certificate at the High Sheriff of Kent’s annual awards evening. The award celebrates the vital, often unseen, role prison libraries play in supporting positive rehabilitation outcomes and helping prisoners through some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
The recognition followed a personal letter written by a Swaleside prisoner to the High Sheriff, highlighting the compassion, reliability and kindness shown by the prison library staff, which he described as “the prisoners’ emergency service”.
Liz Gunn and Tracy McKechnie, KCC prison library assistants at HMP Swaleside, were presented with a certificate at the High Sheriff of Kent’s annual awards evening.
The letter explained how Liz and Tracy supported him during an extremely distressing time after learning that his mother had been diagnosed with dementia. Worried about her wellbeing, and whether she might one day fail to recognise him, the prisoner turned to the library team for help. Liz and Tracy provided books and trusted information about dementia, as well as signposting him to relevant organisations for further support, helping him to better understand the condition and cope with the situation.
Following the letter, the High Sheriff visited HMP Swaleside to see the library in action and meet staff and prisoners. As a result, Liz and Tracy were invited to the prestigious awards evening, where they were recognised in front of an audience of dignitaries from across Kent.
The High Sheriff praised the Swaleside library team for their dedication and the tangible impact of their work, noting the powerful testimony provided by the prisoner’s letter.
Speaking about the recognition, the team said the award reflects the importance of libraries as trusted, non‑judgemental spaces where prisoners can seek help during moments of crisis.
“Liz and Tracy’s work at HMP Swaleside shows the profound difference KCC’s library services make.”
Georgia Foster, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “Liz and Tracy’s work at HMP Swaleside shows the profound difference KCC’s library services make. Prison libraries are far more than places to borrow books; they are trusted spaces where people can find information, reassurance and support at critical moments.
“This well‑deserved recognition from the High Sheriff of Kent highlights how compassion, professionalism and access to knowledge can play a vital role in rehabilitation and reducing re‑offending. I’m incredibly proud of the Swaleside library team and the positive impact they have on people’s lives every day.”
This award shines a spotlight on the often unseen but deeply meaningful work carried out by KCC’s prison library service staff, work that changes lives, supports rehabilitation and helps build safer communities.
Find out more about libraries in Kent by visiting: Libraries - Kent County Council
