How to Send Books to Someone at Sutter County Jail (publisher-only, paperback rule)

Sutter County Jail only accepts reading materials sent the "official" way. Newspapers, magazines, periodicals, and soft-bound books must arrive through U.S. Mail - shipped directly from the publisher, a bookseller, or another vendor that sells publications. Here's where people get tripped up: all books must be paperback. Hardcovers aren't allowed, even when shipped from a legitimate publisher.

There's a limited exception for educational or religious materials - but don't assume it applies automatically. A supervisor must approve these items, and they're only accepted during normal visitation hours.

1. Choose a publisher or recognized seller - Use a publisher, bookseller, or other vendor that sells publications; the jail only allows reading materials that are mailed directly from them through U.S. Mail.
2. Pick a paperback edition - Make sure the book is soft-bound/paperback. Hardbound books won’t be accepted.
3. Place the order for direct shipping - The vendor needs to ship straight to the jail, not to you first.
4. Don’t try to “hand deliver” it - Bringing books or magazines on visiting days won’t work; the jail doesn’t accept them from visitors.

Even when you follow the mailing rules, the jail can still reject certain publications based on facility security concerns. And if a book or magazine wasn't shipped directly from the publisher, bookseller, or vendor? That alone is enough to get it turned away.