Request Books
Are you or is someone you love currently incarcerated?
We would love to help you receive free reading materials through our books to prisoners program.
How to Request Books
from Portland Books Through Bars
Write a Letter
The person currently incarcerated should write us a letter with their book or reading material requests.
Include in your Letter
Before mailing make sure that the following is included so we can respond:
1. First & Last Name
2. Prison ID Number
3. Facility Address
4. Any Facility Restrictions
Mail your Letter
After you have finished your letter and applied postage, send your letter requests to:
PDX BOOKS THROUGH BARS
PO BOX 11222
PORTLAND, OR 97211
Types of Books You Can Request
We have a donation-based library of mostly used books, and volunteers choose books that match requests as closely as possible.
Instead of a specific title, book, or series, requests that include a range of subjects, genres, or authors are more likely to get a better match.
We prioritize sending paperback copies of books and reading materials across the genres such as (but not limited to): literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy, mystery, thriller, skill training, homesteading, manga, history, metaphysical & tarot, astrology, and educational texts.