Guide to Ordering Books from Amazon for Inmates in Prisons

Overview of the Process

In most prisons, inmates cannot directly order books or other items from Amazon or other online vendors. However, there is a solution: individuals on the outside can order books and mail them to the inmate, who will receive and read them in their cell.

The process of getting books into prison involves a few key steps. First, someone outside of prison must purchase the books from Amazon or another approved vendor. Then, the books must be shipped directly to the inmate's address within the prison. Generally, these packages are subject to search and inspection before they are delivered to the inmate.

Types of Approved Books

To ensure that books are approved for inclusion in a prisoner's library, it’s important to be familiar with prison policies and prohibited items. At minimum, the following types of books are typically approved:

Magazines and non-violent, non-violin instructional books about self-help, learning, and other personal growth topics Publishings that do not contain explicit material, such as pornography or any form of alcohol-related content Instructional materials that are not related to weapons or self-defense measures

For a comprehensive list of acceptable items, it is wise to carefully review the specific guidelines provided by the prison in which the inmate is incarcerated.

Steps to Obtain Books for Inmates

Can someone on the outside order books for an inmate and have them shipped straight to the prison? The answer is yes, but the process involves several steps:

Choose the Books: First, select the books that you believe will be most beneficial for the inmate. Consider works in areas such as self-help, personal development, and educational content. Buy from an Approved Vendor: It is essential to purchase books from an approved vendor. In some prisons, such as the one at Walkinghorst, there may be specific approved vendors for sending packages. Research and confirm the correct vendor before proceeding. Ship Directly to the Prison: Mail the books to the prison using the inmate’s name and the approved vendor’s address. Make sure to include all necessary information, such as the inmate’s name, address, and any relevant identification numbers. Monitor and Track Packages: Keep track of the shipment to ensure that it is on its way and follows the proper procedure. You can usually track packages online through the prison or the postal service. Review Prison Policies: Some prisons may have restrictions on the number of books an inmate can receive per quarter or year, and may only allow certain types of books. Stay Informed: Stay up to date on any changes in prison policies that may affect the books or other materials that can be sent to the inmate.

Benefits of Ordering Books for Inmates

Ordering books for inmates offers several benefits. These benefits include:

Enriching Lives: Books can provide a sense of normalcy and help inmates pass the time more productively. Improving Education: Reading materials can offer valuable educational content that may lead to improved literacy and other skills. Social and Economic Advantages: Some self-help books can prepare inmates for life after release, aiding in reintegration and reducing recidivism rates.

Examples of Books for Inmates

There are numerous examples of books that have been successfully ordered for inmates, including:

An Insider's Guide to Doing Time by Charles Higgins: This book provides valuable insights into prison life and can serve as a guide for inmates. An Insider's Guide to Resources: Another book by Charles Higgins offers a comprehensive list of resources for those incarcerated, including legal aid, health services, and vocational training.

These books are just a sample of the many resources available to inmates through the mail.

Concluding Thoughts

In conclusion, ordering books for inmates is a vital and beneficial practice. By providing inmates with educational and enriching reading materials, you can contribute to their well-being and help them navigate the challenges of prison life. Always ensure that you are complying with prison policies and guidelines to ensure that the books are accepted.