How to send books that will actually reach an inmate at Monroe Detention Center

Monroe allows softbound books, but only when they ship directly from the publisher or an online retailer. That "direct from the source" rule is strict. A softbound book sent from a retail bookstore or a private individual will not be accepted. Think of it this way: you're not mailing a book to the jail yourself. You're placing an order and having the publisher or online seller ship it straight to the facility.

• ✓ Include the sender’s name and a return address on all incoming mail, or it will be returned.
• ✓ Put the return name and return address on the front of the envelope (not just elsewhere on the packaging), or it will be returned.

Hardback books are not accepted at Monroe unless the Jail Commander approves them. Order a hardcover without that approval and it will be rejected.

Even if your shipment clears screening, inmates can only keep three books in their cell at a time. If your person already has three, the new book may not stay with them right away.

Monroe also follows State Fire Marshal restrictions that cap the total volume of paperwork an inmate can possess. In practice, this means space and volume limits can affect what they're allowed to keep, even when the mail itself would otherwise be accepted.

1. Choose softbound books - Monroe accepts softbound books, but only when they are sent directly from the publisher or an Internet website.
2. Have the seller ship it directly - place the order so it ships straight from the publisher or online vendor to the facility.
3. Avoid retail bookstores and private senders - softbound books that come from retail bookstores or private individuals are not accepted.

• ✓ Make sure the sender’s name and a return address are included, or the mail will be returned.
• ✓ Make sure the return name and return address are written on the front of the envelope/package, or it will be returned.