We make ordering easy for First Book members and partners like you by taking care of all the details, whether you need a bulk order of your favorite titles or suggestions for new ones. Tell us about your project now.

How It Works

By working directly with publishers and suppliers, we provide streamlined service—from quote to delivery—within your budget. Our team stays up to date on the latest titles and provides expert recommendations that spark excitement and promote learning.

The Special Orders Team can help if you need:

100+ copies of one or more titles (minimum of 500 total books)
A custom order curated by our book experts (minimum of 500 total books)
Special packaging or shipping to multiple locations (minimum of 500 total books)
Customized printing of 5,000+ copies of one or more titles
Backpacks, school supplies, and basic needs items in bulk!

Whether you are planning a district-wide read, building classroom libraries, or distributing books at a community event, our book experts can help you find the right books for the kids you serve at the right price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these services incur additional costs?
Yes. The Special Orders Team guarantees a high-touch approach for customized special order services; all special orders will assess an Expertise & Logistics fee of 5-10% of the order total. If your organization would like to purchase books directly from the First Book Marketplace, no services fees are incurred apart from normal Shipping & Handling (Shipping & Handling is free for all Marketplace orders over $25).

Special packing requirements may incur additional fees. Please contact us for additional information.

How quickly can I expect to receive a quote?
Once you submit a request to the Special Orders team, please expect acknowledgement of your request within 2 business days. You may expect a quote within 5-10 business days depending on the complexity of your request.

Customized printings and special editions may require an additional week. Please contact us for additional information.

How long will it take to receive my order after I receive and approve the quote?
The standard timeline for delivery is 32-42 business days after payment is successfully received. Actual delivery timeline may vary based on title availability and project complexity. Customized printings and special editions may require up to 6 months before delivery.

Can I receive my order(s) any faster?
Yes. It is possible to request a RUSH quote and delivery timeline: our team requires 3-6 business days to provide an accurate quote and 18-23 business days after payment is successfully received to deliver books and resources. This RUSH service incurs additional 5% of the order total, plus $5 per shipping location.

In addition, two-day and overnight shipping is available for all orders. Please contact us to request RUSH services or expedited shipping for special orders.

RUSH shipping is NOT available for customized printings, special editions, or orders requiring special packing.

What if I want to order fewer than 500 total books and resources?
If your order is fewer than 500 total books, please place your order using your First Book Marketplace account. If you are not sure if your request meets the minimum order quantity, please contact our Member Services team.

Is it possible to ship my order to multiple delivery locations?
Yes. We are happy to deliver books and resources to as many locations as you need. If books are resources shipping to each location are over $25, shipping is included. If books and resources are less than $25, a flat shipping rate of $7.50 will be applied to each location’s order.

I need my books and/or boxes to include special labeling. Can you do this for me?
Yes. If you need labels, special flyers, bookplates, or any other special packing, include your requirements in your request and our team will be sure to include the additional costs in your quote.

Maximize your budget and discover great books with First Bookâ€™s Special Orders Team!