Sending books to incarcerated loved ones can be a meaningful way to provide education, comfort, and a connection to the outside world. However, navigating the prison mail system can be challenging, especially with the varying rules and restrictions that prisons enforce. This blog post offers practical tips for successfully sending books to someone in prison, including understanding the rules, choosing the right books, and avoiding common pitfalls.

1. Understand the Rules and Restrictions

Every prison system has its own set of rules regarding what can be sent to inmates, and this includes books. Some facilities have strict guidelines about the content, format, and source of books, making it essential to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations of the prison where your loved one is housed.

Key Points to Consider:

• Approved Vendors: Many prisons require that books be sent directly from approved vendors, such as Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or other established bookstores. This is to prevent contraband from being smuggled into the facility.
• Content Restrictions: Certain topics or materials may be banned. For example, books that contain explicit content, violence, or material that could be considered a threat to security may be prohibited. It’s crucial to review the prison’s banned books list, which may include surprising titles. In fact, a report by The Marshall Project highlights the widespread practice of banning books in prisons, with many titles being blacklisted for seemingly arbitrary reasons【14†source】 .
• Book Format: Some prisons only allow paperback books to be sent due to safety concerns. Hardcover books may be seen as a potential weapon, and thus, are often banned.

2. Choose the Right Books

When selecting books to send, it’s important to consider both the interests of your loved one and the prison’s restrictions. Books that provide educational content, self-help guidance, or simply offer a mental escape can be particularly beneficial.

Suggestions for Book Topics:

• Education and Skill-Building: Books on subjects like math, history, business, or trades can help inmates gain knowledge and skills that could be useful upon their release.
• Personal Development: Self-help books that focus on mental health, resilience, and personal growth can offer valuable support during difficult times.
• Fiction and Literature: Novels and literary works can provide an escape from the harsh realities of prison life, offering comfort and inspiration.

Before purchasing, make sure to cross-check the book with the prison’s banned books list to avoid it being rejected. According to The Marshall Project, many prisons have extensive lists of banned books, which can vary significantly from state to state [The Marshall Project] .

3. Follow Proper Mailing Procedures

Once you’ve selected the books, it’s essential to follow the prison’s specific mailing procedures to ensure they are received without issues.

Steps to Follow:

• Include Necessary Information: Always include the inmate’s full name, ID number, and the complete address of the facility on both the package and the shipping label. Double-check this information to avoid delivery issues.
• Use an Approved Vendor: Ensure that the books are shipped directly from an approved vendor. Many prisons will reject packages that are sent from individuals or non-approved sources.
• Check for Size and Quantity Limits: Some prisons have limits on the number of books that can be sent at one time or restrictions on the total number of books an inmate can possess. Verify these details before sending multiple books.

4. Be Prepared for Potential Rejections

Despite your best efforts, there is always a chance that the books you send could be rejected by the prison. This could happen if the books are on a banned list, if they violate content restrictions, or if they don’t follow proper mailing protocols.

What to Do if Books Are Rejected:

• Appeal the Decision: Some prisons allow you to appeal the rejection, especially if you believe the rejection was made in error. Contact the prison for information on how to file an appeal.
• Consider Alternative Options: If a book is rejected, consider finding an alternative title that meets the prison’s guidelines. There may be similar books that are allowed and can still provide value to your loved one.

5. Stay Informed and Advocate for Change

The rules surrounding book deliveries in prisons can be frustrating and often seem arbitrary. It’s important to stay informed about these regulations and advocate for fair access to literature. The Marshall Project reports that book bans in prisons are part of a broader issue of censorship that impacts inmates’ access to education and information [The Marshall Project] .

Supporting organizations that fight against censorship in prisons, spreading awareness, and advocating for policy changes can help improve access to books and education for incarcerated individuals.

Conclusion

Sending books to a loved one in prison can be a deeply impactful way to support their emotional and intellectual well-being. By understanding the rules, choosing the right books, and following proper procedures, you can navigate the prison mail system more effectively. While the process may seem daunting, the reward of providing comfort and knowledge to someone behind bars makes it worth the effort. Stay informed, be patient, and continue to advocate for better access to literature within the prison system.

Resources

• The Marshall Project: For ongoing coverage and reports on prison book bans and censorship issues.
• Books Behind Bars: A non-profit organization that provides books to incarcerated individuals.
• Prison Book Program: An organization dedicated to sending free books to people in prison, with guidelines for donors.

By staying informed and proactive, you can help ensure that your loved one has access to the valuable resources that books provide.