The isolated atmosphere of a prison also forces librarians to work hard to grow professionally and poses a dilemma to those hiring a correctional librarian, choosing between professional qualifications and personal characteristics. In general, correctional librarians are older and more experienced but less formally educated than their civilian counterparts. Although the salary is relatively high, the stress level and long hours account for a fairly short length of service. A sense of humor and ability to deal with violence, obscenities, and potentially dangerous behavior are essential. The correctional librarian, like other prison employees, must be fair, firm, and consistent in dealing with inmates. Although materials that threaten the institution's security may have to be censored, in general, reading and library use must be encouraged. However, the librarian must avoid giving legal advice to inmates; trained inmates or civilian paralegals can help them prepare documents. The librarian must also be ready to act as counselor, social worker, and ombudsman.