How to Easily Send Approved Books to Loved Ones in CA Correctional Facilities
Sending books to inmates in California prisons is one of the most thoughtful and impactful ways to support your loved one during incarceration. Books not only provide education and entertainment but also play a crucial role in rehabilitation and mental well-being. However, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has strict rules for what inmates can and cannot receive, especially when it comes to books.
That’s where CA Corrections Bookstore comes in. We specialize in delivering facility-approved books directly to inmates across California correctional facilities. This step-by-step guide will walk you through exactly how to place an order and make sure your shipment is accepted and delivered smoothly.
Why Books Matter in California Prisons
Books are a lifeline for many inmates, providing:
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Educational advancement (GED, college prep, vocational training)
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Mental and emotional well-being
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Spiritual and personal development
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Positive use of time
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A stronger sense of connection to the outside world
According to studies, inmates who engage with books regularly are less likely to reoffend and more likely to succeed upon release. That’s why selecting the right books, and sending them through an approved process, is so important.
Step 1: Know the Rules for California Prisons
The California Department of Corrections has specific book policies:
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Books must be shipped directly from a vendor/publisher (no personal shipments)
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Hardcover books are usually prohibited
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Books with explicit, violent, or gang-related content are banned
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Books must not contain glued inserts, metal bindings, or spiral spines
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No handwritten notes, photos, or letters can be included in the shipment
Facilities reserve the right to reject any book that violates institutional policies, even if unintentionally. That’s why it's best to work with an approved bookstore like CA Corrections Bookstore that knows what’s accepted.
Step 2: Visit CA Corrections Bookstore
We make ordering easy and safe with a catalog curated specifically for California inmates. All books are selected with compliance and rehabilitation in mind. On our website, you can explore:
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Self-help & Motivational Books – Empower inmates to work on mindset and personal growth
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Educational & Skill-Building Titles – Help with reentry skills like money management, literacy, and trades
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Religious & Spiritual Books – Faith-based reading that uplifts and guides
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Fiction & Biographies – Encourage reflection, escapism, and inspiration
Use the navigation menu or search bar to find the perfect title for your loved one. You can shop by category, author, or theme.
Step 3: Gather Accurate Inmate Information
To ensure successful delivery, you’ll need the inmate’s:
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Full Legal Name
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CDCR Inmate ID Number
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Correctional Facility Name
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Facility Mailing Address
Step 4: Add Books to Cart and Checkout
Once you’ve selected the books:
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Add to Cart
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Proceed to Checkout
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Enter the full inmate mailing information exactly as described
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Select your shipping method (Media Mail or Priority Mail via USPS)
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Complete payment via credit/debit card
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Receive your confirmation email with tracking info
We take care of the rest, including packaging and labeling according to facility requirements.
Step 5: We Handle Shipping & Delivery
All books are shipped via USPS (United States Postal Service), the only mail carrier approved by correctional institutions. You can choose:
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Media Mail – Affordable, 5–12 business days
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Priority Mail – Faster, 3–10 business days
We include tracking with every order so you can monitor the delivery process. Once the package arrives at the facility, it's processed by the prison mailroom and delivered to the inmate according to their internal schedule.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small mistakes can cause a package to be rejected. Here’s what NOT to do:
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Don’t send books from Amazon or personal sellers
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Don’t include handwritten notes, bookmarks, or receipts
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Don’t use gift wrapping or decorative packaging
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Don’t send more books than the facility allows (typically 2–3 per shipment)
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Don’t order books with banned content (e.g., sexual content, excessive violence)
At CA Corrections Bookstore, we’re experienced in navigating these rules. We handle the details, so you don’t have to worry about rejections or delays.
Why Choose CA Corrections Bookstore?
We’re not just a bookstore, we’re your trusted partner in keeping inmates supported and inspired.
What Sets Us Apart:
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100% Facility-Approved Books
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Decades of Experience with Prison Orders
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Quick Processing & Reliable Shipping
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No Hidden Fees or Third-Party Vendors
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Friendly Customer Support Team
When you order through us, you know your books will arrive securely, follow the rules, and make a difference in someone’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I send a magazine or newspaper with the book?
A: Not in the same package. Those must be ordered separately through approved vendors.
Q: What happens if the facility rejects the book?
A: If the package is returned to us, we’ll contact you to offer store credit or help with a replacement.
Q: Can I track the order after it’s shipped?
A: Yes. You’ll receive USPS tracking details in your email after your order is processed.
Q: Can I include a personal message with the book?
A: No. Any personal letters or photos must be sent separately via standard prison mail or platforms like JPay.
Final Thoughts: Books Make a Lasting Impact
Whether your loved one is serving time in a state prison, county jail, or private facility in California, books are a powerful gift. They provide purpose, education, and hope, essentials for navigating incarceration and building a better future.
At CA Corrections Bookstore, we simplify the process of sending books so you can focus on what matters: supporting, encouraging, and connecting with your loved one.
Ready to Send a Book?
Visit https://cacorrectionsbookstore.com to get started.
Choose the titles, enter inmate info, and we’ll handle the rest.
Facility-approved. Delivered with care.
Because every page you send makes a difference.