Library mail vs media mail
The age-old debate: Library Mail vs Media Mail!
Both Library Mail and Media Mail are types of mail services offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS), but they have some key differences:
Library Mail
- Designed for libraries, archives, and other organizations that send books, periodicals, and other printed materials to patrons.
- Eligible items include:
- Books (hardcover and paperback)
- Periodicals (magazines, journals, newspapers)
- Pamphlets
- Brochures
- Catalogs
- Rates are lower than First-Class Mail, but higher than Media Mail.
- Delivery times are generally faster than Media Mail, with an average of 2-8 business days.
Media Mail
- Designed for sending non-essential, non-urgent items, such as:
- CDs, DVDs, and other digital media
- Video games
- Software
- Books (some exceptions apply)
- Rates are lower than First-Class Mail, but higher than Library Mail.
- Delivery times are generally slower than Library Mail, with an average of 2-8 weeks.
Key differences:
- Eligible items: Library Mail is specifically designed for printed materials, while Media Mail is for non-essential, non-urgent digital media and some books.
- Rates: Library Mail rates are generally lower than Media Mail rates, but higher than First-Class Mail rates.
- Delivery times: Library Mail delivery times are generally faster than Media Mail delivery times.
- Purpose: Library Mail is designed for libraries and organizations to send materials to patrons, while Media Mail is for sending non-essential, non-urgent items.
When to use each:
- Use Library Mail if you're a library or organization sending printed materials to patrons, and you need faster delivery times.
- Use Media Mail if you're sending non-essential, non-urgent digital media or some books, and you're looking for a cost-effective option with slower delivery times.
Remember to check the USPS website for the most up-to-date information on rates, eligibility, and delivery times for both Library Mail and Media Mail services.