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Reviewed on: April 15,2026
General Prison Questions-Terminology

How many books can I send an inmate from Amazon?

Is there a limit on how many books I send my inmate from Amazon? I wanted to send him a 5-book series and a dictionary.

In most facilities, there is no strict limit on how many books you can send, but there are a few important rules to follow.
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Answered by a former federal inmate · 14+ years advising families
✓ Verified answer March 08,2015 · General Prison Questions-Terminology
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In most facilities, there is no strict limit on how many books you can send, but there are a few important rules to follow.

Sending multiple books:

  • A 5 book series plus a dictionary is usually fine
  • Some facilities may limit how many items an inmate can possess at one time, not how many you can send
  • If they exceed that limit, the inmate may have to store, donate, or send items home

Where the books come from matters:

  • Books must be sent directly from Amazon or another approved publisher/retailer
  • Do not buy from third party sellers or used book resellers on Amazon
  • Stick to new books sold and shipped by Amazon

Book type requirements:

  • Paperback is almost always accepted
  • Hardcover books are often rejected
  • Content must follow facility rules

Best approach:

  • Send them all at once or split into two shipments if you want to be cautious
  • Check the specific facility’s mailroom rules if possible

As long as you follow the approved vendor rule and send paperback books, your inmate should receive them without any issue.

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Accepted Answer Date Created: March 08,2015
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About this answer: This response was prepared by InmateAid’s editorial team in consultation with former inmates who have direct experience with the federal correctional system. InmateAid has served families of the incarcerated since 2012. This is general information only — not legal advice. Last reviewed April 2026.