When a loved one is incarcerated, staying connected to them can be a challenging but essential part of supporting their emotional and mental well-being. While letters, books, and personal visits are common ways to maintain that bond, sending magazines can also be an excellent way to provide not only entertainment but also information, education, and inspiration. However, sending magazines to inmates isn’t always as simple as it may seem. Correctional facilities have strict rules and regulations about what can and can’t be sent, especially when it comes to magazines.
At SureShot Books Publishing LLC, we understand the importance of staying connected with incarcerated loved ones. With over 30 years of experience, we’ve made it easy for families to send approved reading materials, including magazines, to correctional facilities. In this blog, we’ll explore the best magazines to send to inmates, the rules correctional facilities enforce, and how SureShot can help you navigate the process with ease.
Why Magazines Matter for Inmates
Magazines offer a unique benefit to incarcerated individuals by providing access to current events, hobbies, self-improvement, and relaxation. For many inmates, magazines are not just an escape, they are a source of learning and personal growth. Here's why magazines are essential for prisoners:
1. Entertainment and Escape
Magazines offer a break from the routine of incarceration and can help reduce the stress and boredom that often accompanies prison life.
2. Educational Content
Magazines on topics like science, finance, self-help, and history provide inmates with valuable knowledge that can help with personal growth and post-release plans.
3. Skill Development
Magazines related to specific hobbies or crafts, woodworking, photography, or gardening, can encourage inmates to develop new skills and stay mentally active.
4. Mental Well-being
For inmates who are feeling isolated, magazines can provide a sense of connection to the outside world and help combat the feelings of loneliness and despair often felt in prison.
Magazines help maintain a link to the outside world and provide a sense of normalcy, making them an invaluable form of support for inmates.
What Correctional Facilities Accept: Rules and Regulations for Sending Magazines
While magazines can be a fantastic gift for inmates, sending them isn’t as simple as ordering them online. Correctional facilities have strict rules regarding the types of magazines that can be sent, as well as how they must be delivered. Here are some common regulations to keep in mind when sending magazines to your loved ones in prison:
1. Must Be Sent Directly from an Approved Retailer or the Publisher
Most correctional facilities require that magazines be sent directly from an approved retailer or the publisher. Magazines from third-party sellers (such as those bought at a bookstore) are often not accepted, as they can be tampered with or contain unwanted content. Many facilities only allow magazines to be mailed in new condition, not previously owned or opened.
- Tip: Always order magazines directly from the publisher or through a trusted online retailer that ships to prisons, such as SureShot Books, to ensure they meet facility guidelines.
2. No Subscriptions
Some facilities may prohibit subscriptions to magazines, as they prefer one-time deliveries instead of ongoing shipments. Be sure to check whether your loved one can receive recurring magazine deliveries or if you need to send individual issues.
3. Content Restrictions
While magazines are generally accepted, there are restrictions on the type of content they can contain. Explicit, violent, or inappropriate material is not allowed in prison. Magazines that contain nudity, violence, gambling, or graphic content are typically not permitted. It's important to ensure that the magazines you select contain content that is appropriate for correctional facility guidelines.
- Tip: Stick to magazines that focus on family-friendly, educational, and hobby-related content.
4. The Size and Format of Magazines
Magazines may need to conform to specific size and format restrictions. Inmates may only be able to receive magazines of certain sizes (i.e., smaller formats) due to space constraints in the prison mailrooms.
- Tip: Always check the size and format rules for the facility in question before ordering magazines.
Best Magazines to Send to Inmates
Now that we know the general guidelines for sending magazines, let’s dive into the best magazines that are both educational and approved by most correctional facilities.
1. Time Magazine
Content: Current events, global news, politics, and culture.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
Time offers timely articles on world events, politics, and human rights, keeping inmates up to date with what’s happening in the world. Staying informed is crucial for mental stimulation and connection to society. Time Magazine is widely accepted by correctional facilities.
2. Forbes
Content: Business, finance, economics, and entrepreneurship.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
Forbes is perfect for inmates interested in learning about business, finance, and personal development. It offers a broad range of articles on entrepreneurship, investing, and career success, helping inmates prepare for financial independence and success after release.
3. Sports Illustrated
Content: Sports, athletes, fitness, and health.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For inmates who enjoy sports, Sports Illustrated provides the latest on athletes, sports events, and fitness. It’s a great magazine for those looking to stay connected to the world of sports and health. Additionally, it offers inspiration and motivational stories about athletes overcoming adversity.
Order Sports Illustrated here.
4. The New Yorker
Content: Politics, culture, fiction, current affairs, and history.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
The New Yorker covers an array of topics from politics to fiction, often with a thoughtful, in-depth analysis. It’s ideal for inmates looking to stay informed on cultural and political issues, while offering thought-provoking literature.
5. Essence Magazine
Content: Fashion, beauty, health, lifestyle, and empowerment.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For incarcerated women or those interested in understanding the experiences of Black women, Essence Magazine offers a sense of connection to cultural heritage. The magazine’s focus on empowerment, beauty, and health can help inmates maintain self-esteem and emotional well-being while offering a sense of pride and representation.
6. Motor Trend Magazine
Content: Cars, trucks, motorcycles, engineering, and automotive technology.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
Inmates with an interest in cars, mechanics, or the automotive industry will find Motor Trend an invaluable resource. It offers engaging articles about cutting-edge car technology and trends, which can help inmates stay connected to their passions and even develop skills related to future career opportunities in the automotive field post-release.
Order Motor Trend Magazine here.
7. Men’s Health Magazine
Content: Fitness, nutrition, mental health, self-care, and lifestyle.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For inmates looking to stay healthy and mentally fit, Men’s Health provides practical advice on maintaining a balanced lifestyle even in a restrictive environment. Its focus on mental and physical wellness can help inmates work on their fitness goals and emotional health, both critical for successful rehabilitation and reentry into society.
Order Men’s Health Magazine here.
8. The Economist Magazine
Content: Global politics, economics, business, finance, and technology.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For inmates who are interested in global affairs, politics, or economic trends, The Economist provides critical thinking and knowledgeable perspectives. Staying informed about current events can help inmates feel connected to the outside world while developing critical thinking skills, which are valuable for reentry and understanding global issues.
Order The Economist Magazine here.
9. Sports Magazine
Content: Sports, athletes, fitness, and health.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For inmates who are passionate about sports, Sports Magazine offers an essential link to the latest developments in the sports world. It’s an engaging read for those interested in learning about their favorite athletes, staying updated on game statistics, and finding inspiration in the stories of perseverance and dedication in sports.
10. Inc. Magazine
Content: Entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership, innovation, and startups.
Why It’s Great for Inmates:
For inmates interested in entrepreneurship or looking to develop business ideas post-release, Inc. Magazine offers insightful and practical advice for starting a business. The magazine’s focus on innovation and leadership is perfect for inmates who want to empower themselves and build a future independent of traditional employment, providing valuable resources for anyone aiming to create their own success.
How to Send Magazines to Inmates
To ensure your loved one receives their magazines safely, it’s important to follow the guidelines provided by the correctional facility. As mentioned, most facilities require magazines to be shipped directly from the publisher or approved retailer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to sending magazines:
- Choose an Approved Publisher or Retailer – Use SureShot Books to order magazines that are compliant with prison regulations.
- Confirm the Facility’s Guidelines – Check with the prison or correctional facility to ensure the magazine meets size, content, and format requirements.
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Place Your Order – Send the magazine directly to the facility’s mailing address with the inmate’s information.
- Track the Shipment – Use tracking to ensure that the magazine reaches the facility safely.
Why Choose SureShot Books?
At SureShot Books Publishing LLC, we specialize in offering correctional facility-approved magazines and books for inmates. With over 30 years of experience working with correctional facilities, we understand the importance of providing quality reading materials that promote personal growth, education, and mental well-being.
Why Choose SureShot:
- Wide selection of magazines and books
- Approved by correctional facilities nationwide
- Reliable, secure shipping to prisons
- Experienced customer service to guide your order
Conclusion: Support Your Loved One with the Gift of Magazines
Magazines are a powerful tool for keeping inmates informed, connected, and engaged. Whether it’s for entertainment, education, or personal growth, sending a magazine is a simple yet effective way to show support and help your loved one stay connected to the outside world. At SureShot Books, we make it easy for families to send magazines that meet correctional facility guidelines while ensuring they provide value and inspiration to the inmate.
Order magazines today from SureShot Books and give your loved one the gift of learning, growth, and connection.
Contact SureShot Books
Need help choosing the right magazine or confirming delivery requirements? We’re here to help!
Phone: 845.675.7505
Email: jessica@sureshotbooks.com
Website: www.sureshotbooks.com