How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Bibb County Jail.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Bibb County Jail is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Bibb County Jail.

Frequently asked questions about Bibb County Jail

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Bibb County Jail.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Bibb County Jail?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Bibb County Jail?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Bibb County Jail. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Bibb County Jail. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Bibb County Jail?

   Mailing address:

   Bibb County Jail
   668 Oglethorpe St
   Macon, GA 31201
   Phone: (478) 621-5555

   Business hours:

   • Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   • Saturday: Closed
   • Sunday: Closed

5. What are the visiting hours at Bibb County Jail?

   Visiting hours at Bibb County Jail vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (478) 621-5555 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Bibb County Jail?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Bibb County Jail for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Bibb County Jail?

   You can send money to an inmate at Bibb County Jail through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Bibb County Jail?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Bibb County Jail, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Bibb County Jail?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Bibb County Jail for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Bibb County Jail, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

The Bibb County Sheriff's Office Corrections Unit operates with a comprehensive approach to inmate supervision and support, providing essential services that address both immediate needs and long-term preparation for reintegration. The facility's operational framework includes GED educational opportunities, religious services, library access, and recreational activities, all designed to maintain a structured environment while supporting inmates' personal development during their incarceration.

Medical and mental health care services are delivered through the facility's fully operational infirmary, which is staffed by multiple full-time and part-time nurses along with a part-time physician. This in-house medical capability allows the facility to address many health concerns without external transportation, ensuring continuity of care for the inmate population. Beyond healthcare, the facility may offer substance abuse counseling programs, life skills training, and anger management classes to help address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior.

The corrections unit also emphasizes practical skill development through supervised work programs where inmates participate in food preparation, building maintenance, laundry operations, and facility cleaning. These programs may provide valuable vocational experience while contributing to the facility's daily operations. Additional support services typically include legal assistance coordination, family visitation programs, and pre-release planning to help inmates transition back into the community. The facility's approach to programming reflects a balance between maintaining security and providing opportunities for personal growth and rehabilitation during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

The Bibb County Main Jail operates with structured daily routines designed to maintain safety and security for its population of over 900 inmates. Inmates typically begin their day early with scheduled meal times in the facility's fully operational kitchen, where meals are prepared by supervised inmates under staff oversight. Throughout the day, many inmates participate in various work assignments including building maintenance, laundry services, and cleaning duties, which helps maintain facility operations while providing structure to daily life. The jail's medical staff, including three full-time nurses, two part-time nurses, and a part-time physician, conducts regular health checks and medical appointments as needed.

The facility provides access to several programs and services that break up the daily routine. Inmates may attend GED classes, participate in religious services, and have scheduled library time. Recreational activities, including outdoor recreation when weather permits, are incorporated into the weekly schedule. Court appearances and attorney visits are coordinated throughout the week for those with pending legal matters. The jail accommodates both male and female inmates aged 17 and older, housing individuals charged with or convicted of misdemeanors and felonies with sentences up to one year.

Visitation schedules typically allow families and friends to maintain contact with inmates, though specific visiting hours and procedures may vary based on housing assignments and security classifications. The facility staff works to balance security requirements with inmates' basic needs for food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. Mental health services are also available as part of the comprehensive care approach. Daily life revolves around maintaining order and safety while ensuring inmates have access to essential services and programs during their stay at the facility.