Sending Books and Magazines to People at Big Muddy River: What Changed in 2025

Starting September 30, 2025, Big Muddy River will only accept publications - books, magazines, newspapers - that arrive by mail directly from the publisher. Want to send a book or set up a magazine subscription for someone inside? You'll need to order through a seller that qualifies as a

IDOC defines

• ✓ Traditional publishers and bookstores (for example, Random House Books or Barnes & Noble)
• ✓ Online retailers that sell and ship publications (for example, Amazon.com or Walmart.com)

A few exceptions exist. The publisher-only rule doesn't apply to materials for the Office of Adult Education and Vocational Services, other approved programs, the facility library, or religious programs. These exceptions cover institutional and program-related materials - not personal gifts or subscriptions. If you're sending something as a gift, stick with the publisher-direct route.

1. Start with the effective date - The publisher-only rule applies beginning September 30, 2025.
2. Choose a qualifying “publisher” - IDOC’s definition is broad and can include publishers, book clubs, bookstores, other distributors, religious organizations or ministries, educational institutions, and units of government that deliver publications to readers.
3. Order from a source that will ship directly - Use a seller that sends the book or magazine straight from the publisher/seller to the facility (IDOC’s examples include traditional publishers/bookstores and online retailers like Amazon.com and Walmart.com).
4. Skip any in-person handoff plans - Don’t buy a book and bring it on a visit expecting to leave it there; after the effective date, that’s not allowed.