Sending Books to Dawson County Detention Center: Publisher-Only Rule Explained

Dawson County Detention Center only accepts books delivered directly from the publisher. Books sent by individuals - whether you're a friend, family member, or anyone other than the publisher - won't make it through.

There's one exception: each inmate can receive one softcover Bible or other softcover religious text. This doesn't have to come from a publisher - it's the only book type with that flexibility.

Why the strict rule? It's about verifying the source. When books come straight from a publisher, staff can confirm where they originated and what's inside. Packages from individuals or unclear sellers raise red flags - and get rejected.

• ✓ Don’t mail books yourself or drop them off - books have to be delivered directly from the publisher.
• ✓ Avoid used copies or marketplace-style listings where the “seller” and shipper may be a third party.
• ✓ Before you place the order, confirm the shipment will clearly originate from the publisher.
• ✓ If the shipping label or return address doesn’t reflect the publisher, expect the package to be rejected.

1. Choose a true publisher source - Start with the publisher itself or a purchasing option that clearly ships directly from the publisher.
2. Confirm who will actually ship the book - Before checkout, look for language that indicates the publisher is the shipper (not a third-party seller).
3. Place the order with publisher shipping - The goal is for the package to arrive as a publisher shipment, not as a personal gift.
4. Keep your order confirmation and tracking - Save the receipt and tracking number so you can reference the shipment if there’s a question about delivery.

Not sure if your order qualifies as "directly from the publisher"? Call the jail before you buy. The sheriff's website lists detention staff contacts - including the Chief Jailer and Inmate Services Coordinator - so you can verify what's accepted under current policy.