help page without links
Navigation
Searching for Titles
Easy Search
Search Results
Selecting Titles
My Book Lists
List Detail
Mackin Book Lists
My Profile
Preferred Format Order
TitleMatch
FAQs

(Please call 800-245-9540 for one-to-one assistance with your Mackin.com account.)

Navigation
Find your way around Mackin.com by exploring the main menu bar and its submenus.
  • Learn what specific actions you can take on each page under OPTIONS. 
  • Look for specific pages on the Site Map, located at the bottom of each page. 
  • Use the Back button on your browser to return to the previous page.
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Searching for Titles
The Mackin.com database is the largest of its kind. Finding the titles you need begins on the Search page, which includes a SEARCH BY dropdown menu, a field where you enter your query and a selection of parameters to help you refine your search.
  • Enter keyword queries when using Title Contains, Author Contains, Subject, Sets and Series and Keywords.
  • There is no need to worry about commas, quotation marks, word order or case.
  • Use the Title Begins With, Author (Last, First), and Title, Author fields for more precise searches.
  • Return to a fresh Search page by clicking the Clear button or clicking on New Search in Search menu, where you can also access any of your last five searches, including Easy Searches. (see Easy Search below.)
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It is helpful to understand how the database interprets keyword queries. The system automatically inserts an implicit "AND" between the words in your keywords queries (Title Contains, Author Contains, Subject Series and Keywords). For example, entering the words looking glass in the Title field prompts the database to find all the title records containing both keywords. The search results will include Lewis Carroll's classic Through the Looking Glass as well as the titles Looking Glass Wars, Looking at Glass Through the Ages and Looking Through Grandmother's Glasses. Please note: Profile selections apply to all your searches unless you change them on the Search page before executing your search. (See our search tips on the Search page.)

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Easy Search
Execute a search from any page on Mackin.com using the Easy Search tool, located on the right side of the main menu bar. Easy Search is particularly convenient if you have a specific ISBN. Go to the My Profile page to set an Easy Search default. Please note: Your profile preferences, including Preferred Format Order, apply to Easy Search results.

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Search Results
Manage your search results by sorting and adding/removing columns of information.
  • Sort by clicking on the underlined headings on the top of the results table. 
  • Add or remove columns of information by clicking on the SELECT COLUMNS link. Mackin.com will remember your last selections the next time you log in. 
  • Refer to the KEY to learn the meaning of icons and abbreviations. 
  • Search results are limited to 500 records with the option of viewing 15, 30 or 50 records per page.
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Selecting Titles
  • Clicking on the select box next to a title immediately adds and saves the title to your current list.
  • Your current list is displayed in the "Saving titles to:" dropdown above the results table.
  • Select titles to another list by changing the current list in the "Saving titles to:" dropdown
  • Change the quantity either before or after you make a selection.
  • Delete the title by unchecking the select box.
  • Update totals at any time by clicking on the Update Totals button.
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My Book Lists
Manage all your submitted and unsubmitted lists on this page, found in the main menu bar under My Mackin.
  • Sort your lists by clicking on the underlined headings on the top of the lists table.
  • Edit, delete, forward, print or view a summary of individual lists by clicking on the links under each list name.
  • View the status of your orders in the Submitted column.
  • Merge, move/copy, calculate totals and create new lists under OPTIONS in the main menu bar.
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List Detail
  • Sort titles in your list in a variety of ways by clicking on the underlined headings at the top. 
  • Decide which columns of information you would like to view by clicking on the SELECT COLUMNS link. 
  • Adjust quantities by changing the number in the field and pressing Enter/Return. 
  • If there are unavailable items on your list, you will be notified by a message at the top of the screen and given the option of removing them and/or selecting alternate bindings. 
  • Delete titles by unchecking them. The unchecked title row remains on your list in case you change your mind and choose to reselect it. 
  • To remove deleted titles, select "Remove Deleted Titles" under OPTIONS in the main menu bar.
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Mackin Book Lists
Mackin's in-house librarians and development specialists have prepared thousands of library- and classroom-related lists and organized them on Mackin.com.
  • Search through our custom database by entering keyword(s) in the Quick List Search field.
  • OR, select a topic of interest from our extensive menu and begin exploring through the subtopics and corresponding lists.
  • A link menu at the top of each page will let you know where you are within the Mackin Book Lists database.
  • Find more lists on the Compendium, School Library Journal and Publishers Weekly pages.
  • Check out the latest titles from your favorite publisher on the Publisher Showcase page.
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My Profile
The My Profile page gives you the opportunity to set certain preferences for your account.
  • Adjust your search preferences, such as grade level and publication year. 
  • Choose which fields you would like as default settings for searching. 
  • Establish parameters for multiple school ordering. 
  • Set a Preferred Format Order so all search results will be filtered by binding before they are displayed. 
  • Remember to click the Save Changes button when you are finished.
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Preferred Format Order
On the My Profile page, you can choose to NEVER DISPLAY certain binding types that you may never consider ordering and/or if you have certain binding preferences that you always select.
  • If the preferred binding order is clicked Off, all items from the database that match your query will be displayed with every search. Therefore, you may find that a certain title is available in a library binding, trade binding and a paperback from which you can select the binding type you prefer.
  • If the preferred binding order is clicked On, your search results will only display the binding types that match your profile.
  • To take full advantage of this feature, assign a preference to the various bindings listed for Books, Audios and Videos. You can assign an order of preference to the binding by assigning it a number ('1' being the first choice, and '9' being your last choice). If you prefer, you can assign a binding type a category of 'Never Display' or 'Always Display.'
  • After assigning preference numbers to the binding types and clicking 'Save Changes,' Mackin.com will arrange the binding types into numerical order as you selected.
Please note: Always remember to click the 'Save Changes' button any time you make changes, so your new selections will be added to your profile.

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TitleMatch
TitleMatch helps you manage your collection in real time. As you add to your list, titles that are already in your collection are marked with a color-coded TitleMatch icon so that you won't accidentally order duplicates.
  • View matches in a collection for a single or multiple locations.
  • View matches in your lists or previous Mackin orders. 
  • To take advantage of TitleMatch, upload your library's collection to Mackin's Collection Analysis server. 
  • Make sure the TitleMatch column is displaying on the Search Results and List Detail pages to see the TitleMatch icons.
  • TitleMatch information is always displayed on each title's full record screen.
(Learn more about TitleMatch in the KEY on the Search Results and List Detail pages.)

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FAQs

- General Mackin Questions -

What does Mackin charge for shipping?
There is no charge to ship anywhere in the United States for orders that exceed $50. Orders under that amount will be charged a $5 shipping/handling fee. Charges for shipping outside of the 50 states are based on the method and carrier required for shipment.

Is there a charge to catalog and process my orders?
Standard cataloging and processing is a free Mackin service. Standard processing includes a barcode, spine label, MARC record, a mylar cover on jacketed books, and a reading program label (if applicable to your school). If your school requires additional items such as theft protection, a second barcode, stamping, etc. there are minimal charges for these items. Your exact specifications are kept on file so that we catalog and process your orders accurately every time.

When will my order be shipped?
Our normal shipment schedule is to send a first shipment within 30 days from the time we receive your order. A second and final shipment is sent within 30 days of the first shipment. If you have specific time considerations for receipt of materials, we are willing to work with you to meet your deadlines.

What is a Mackinbound binding?
Many paperback books can be converted to a hardcover binding called a MackinBound (commonly called a 'prebound paperback'). Our MackinBound process uses polyvinyl covers to provide protection, while using the original paperback cover or a professionally scanned version of the original artwork when bound to heavy binder boards. With both covers, the book is rebound; glued or sewn, depending on the thickness of the book and/or the density of the pages to meet or exceed all industry standards, resulting in a durable, hardcover book. All MackinBound books are fully guaranteed against defects as long as the purchased ISBN remains in print.

How do I send an order to Mackin?
You have several options to submit your order to Mackin. You may send the order online, fax, email or send the order through the mail. To submit online, click on the gray Order Now button when your list is open, fill out the information page, and then click on Submit This Order. Contact information for sending by other methods can be found in the Contact Us section of the website.

Can I receive a replacement for a damaged or defective book?
Our Mackinbound binding is guaranteed for as long as the purchased ISBN is in print. Titles that are damaged in shipment or arrive defective will of course be replaced. In order for Mackin to replace a damaged or defective book, we will need the following pieces of information: title of the book, barcode number (if we provide barcodes for your school-if not please provide ISBN#), and the reason for the replacement request. A Mackinbound title will take a little longer turn around time for replacement, as we need to send it to the bindery. To request a replacement, you may call one of our Customer Service Representatives with the above information or email customerservice@mackin.com.

Can I order Reading Counts quizzes from Mackin?
Reading Counts quizzes cannot be purchased through Mackin, but must be ordered directly from Scholastic. However, we can provide Reading Counts labels on your ordered books.

How do I apply a coupon to my order?
To apply a coupon to your order, it can be attached to your order when it is mailed. Faxed orders should include the coupon as well. If an order is submitted online, please mention the coupon in the Special Instructions section and the coupon will be applied to your order.

Can Mackin provide Out of Print titles?
Mackin is unable to provide Out of Print titles. Our customers have had some success finding Out of Print titles at the following websites:
www.bookrescue.com
www.bookcloseouts.com

Do I need to send a Purchase Order with my order?
Mackin does not require a Purchase Order, however if one is not provided, we need the billing and shipping addresses to process the order. If you indicate that a PO is coming, we will not ship materials until the PO is received.

How do I specify how I want my orders cataloged and processed?
If you would like orders cataloged and processed, we need your specifications on file at Mackin. They can be completed online, faxed, mailed, emailed or given to a customer service representative over the phone. Once specifications are sent to us, they will be used to process all orders unless we are instructed otherwise. Changes can be made to specifications on file by contacting any customer service representative.

Can you help me with building a library for my new school?
Mackin is one of the leading providers of Opening Day Collections for schools around the country. We customize every aspect of our services to make sure that your needs are met. For personalized service, please feel free to contact our Opening Day Coordinators at odc@mackin.com or call 1-800-245-9540 and ask for the Opening Day Collections Department.

When will my AR quizzes ship for my order?
Our normal procedure is to send AR quizzes with the second shipment of your order. This shipment schedule is utilized so that quizzes are not sent for those titles that are unavailable. If you would prefer another delivery timeline, please let us know and we would be happy to accommodate. Keep in mind that Renaissance Learning requires a minimum order of 20 quizzes.

Why doesn't Mackin have an inventory?
Mackin does not carry a physical inventory, but accesses a virtual inventory that enables us to order electronically from the publisher when the customer orders from us. This is extremely advantageous, as we are not limited to titles in a catalog or held in inventory. We work with thousands of publishers to provide access to virtually any title in print and our fill rates are unmatched.

How do I request a quote?
There are a couple of routes you can take to request a quote for a list of titles. If you have a list online, you may click on Order Now and indicate in the Special Instructions section that you need the list quoted. It is also helpful to list the time frame for which you need the quote, and the method that you would like to receive it. You can also fax or email a list to the customerservice@mackin.com and request a quote that way, providing the same information listed above.

What is a Kapco cover on a paperback?
This is a clear laminate that is applied to the entire cover of a paperback book to provide added protection to the book. There is a $1.79 charge per book to apply Kapco to paperback titles.

What is a Colibri cover?
These plastic covers are transparent, custom-fitted, durable, and provide a protective covering to books of any binding type. There is a $1.29 charge per book to apply these covers.

Does Mackin recommend a particular software system for libraries looking to upgrade their system or purchase a circulation system for the first time?
Yes! Mackin has a great working relationship with the COMPanion Corporation and the Alexandria Circulation System. Contact any customer service representative and provide your contact information, and we will get you in touch with a sales person who will share the benefits of using Alexandria software. As an added convenience for Mackin customers, Alexandria users can quickly place book orders on mackin.com while logged into their circulation system.

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- General Website Questions -

Where is the KEY link located?
The KEY link for the website is located at the top and bottom corners of both the search result and list detail pages. When the KEY link is clicked, a pop-up box will provide information regarding abbreviations, bindings, and TitleMatch.

How do I print a list I have created online?
Once your list is open, click on Options at the top of the screen. Go down to Print or Export, and choose Print List. A pop-up box will appear that offers several printing options and formats. Printing can also be accessed from the My Book Lists page under My Mackin.

What does the yellow half-circle icon mean next to some titles on the website?  
These are titles that are linked to the Children's Literature Comprehensive Database to provide additional information about the title. CLCD is a reference service, offering more than 300,000 reviews of children's books and multimedia from 30+ review sources. For more information about CLCD, you can visit their website at www.childrenslit.com.

What does the flower icon mean next to some titles on the website?
Titles included in our Compendium are denoted with a flower icon when you perform a search on Mackin.com. This publication comes out twice a year with titles hand picked by our master librarians. You can also peruse Compendium titles, past and present, on our Compendium page. A print version of Compendium can be requested by emailing customer service at customerservice@mackin.com.

What does PPR in mean when listed next to some audiovisual titles?
PPR refers to DVD/VHS materials with Public Performance Rights. This designation is used to indicate copyrighted entertainment movies that can legally be shown in schools without risking copyright infringement.

What does MASS mean when listed next to some paperback titles?
These are paperback titles that are produced by the publisher for the mass market. These books are generally smaller and contain lesser quality paper than the traditional paperback.

How do I set up My Profile to customize my search results?
In order to customize the website so that your search results are not too large to be useful, defaults can be set up in your profile. Under My Mackin, click on My Profile and search parameters can be set to your particular specifications (i.e. never show out of print titles, specify interest level, set search defaults, indicate binding preference, etc). You may change your profile at any time. Be sure to click on Save Changes after you make your selections.

How do I change my email or password for the website?
To change your email or password, go to the My Registration page and click on the links to the right of the email and password fields. If you are making an email change, please let customer service know whether you would like the change made on your school's account as well. If you can't remember your password, update it by clicking on the Forgot your password? link on the homepage. Please call one of our customer service representatives at 800-245-9540 or email customerservice@mackin.com for assistance.

How can I move or copy titles to another list?
There are three ways to move and copy items.
  • On the My Book Lists page:
    OPTIONS > Move/Copy
    Move or copy one item at a time while viewing lists side-by-side.
  • On the List Detail and Filter List results pages:
    OPTIONS > Batch Move/Copy
    Move or copy groups of titles (All titles, selections only, deletions only).
  • On the List Detail full record pages:
    OPTIONS > Move/Copy Title
    Move or Copy a single item to another list.
  • If you would like to copy an entire list to a new list, you should choose the Merge feature.

How can I combine my lists?
From the My Book Lists section under My Mackin, choose Merge lists under the Options menu. From the drop-down menu, choose the list you would like to merge and its destination. You may create a new list, or merge into an existing one. When lists have been chosen, click on Merge. If you have multiple lists to merge, each must be done individually.

How do I request an Order Status report for a list I have submitted online?
To receive an Order Status Report for lists submitted online, click on My Orders under the My Mackin. Click on Check Order Status. From there, you may click on the red Status prompt at the far right column next to the list name. A pop-up will enable you to confirm the email to which you would like the report sent. An emailed status report will be sent to your email address within 10 minutes.

How do I request an Order Status report for orders not submitted online?
To receive an Order Status Report for orders not submitted online, click on My Orders under the My Mackin drop down menu. Click on Ordering Information, and there is a button on the page that says Order Status Report. Clicking on the button will bring up a pop-up box that verifies your email address and allows you to enter the PO number for the order submitted. An emailed status report will be sent to your email address within 10 minutes.

Why do some titles have PRD listed next to them?
These are titles for which the publisher restricts distribution and titles can only be ordered directly from the publisher.

How do I sort my list by author, date, or other method?
Lists can be sorted for any underlined column header either in a search result or list detail. Click on the column heading at the top of the column and the list will be sorted by that criteria. Clicking on the heading again will reverse the sorting order.

How do I get more information to display regarding a title?
Manage your search results and list formats by sorting and adding/removing columns of information (i.e. publisher, series title, language, etc). You can also add or remove columns of information by clicking on the SELECT COLUMNS link. Mackin.com will remember your last selections the next time you log in. The columns displayed in your search results and list detail can be set differently according to your needs.

How do I search by both Title and Author?
There is an option in the SEARCH BY dropdown menu at the top of the search screen that enables you to search by Title, Author. (The comma is not necessary to complete the search.)

How do I add or delete titles from my list?
When you click on the select box next to a title, it is immediately added and saved to your current list. Your current list is displayed in the "Saving titles to:" dropdown field above the results table. View your current list totals at any time by clicking on the Update Totals button. To delete a selection from your list, simply uncheck it. Deleted titles remain on your list unchecked with a zero quantity, however these titles will not print. If you would like to clear the deleted title, click on OPTIONS and choose Remove Deleted Titles.

How do I Save my User Name/Password so that I do not need to enter it each time I log onto the website?
When you type your email address and password into the provided fields, click on the Remember Me box to the right of your entered information. Your email and password are now retained every time you visit Mackin.com from your workstation.

How do I get the search page and the easy search to default to my regularly used search criteria?
Your default for both regular searching and easy search can be set using My Profile under My Mackin. These can be set to default to search by the method that you use most frequently.

How do I change my list name, DNE, PO # or tax rate once a list is created?
If you need to adjust list information once a list is created, choose Edit List Info under the Options menu when your list is open. You can then revise the list name, or add/change PO information, DNE, or tax rate. This can also be done as you are submitting your order online. On the Send Order page click on edit in the List Information box, and make any necessary changes.

How do I list a Do Not Exceed (DNE) limit on my online order?
You can add a DNE limit when a list is created, or you may add this information at a later time. Once a Do Not Exceed limit is listed on your order, be assured that we will not exceed the limit that you have established. If you want to ensure that your limit is reached for budgetary purposes, we recommend that you provide 20% over your dollar amount. Priorities can be established on your lists to indicate preferences for titles.

How do I change the quantity of titles already on my list?
Quantities can be adjusted by changing the number in the quantity field and pressing Enter/Return.

How can I add notes about particular titles on my order?
In order to add a Note to a specific title on your list, ensure that the Notes column is checked at the bottom of the screen of your list. Click on the Notes icon next to the title and a pop-up box will display. Enter your note and click on Save. Titles for which notes have been added are highlighted in yellow and can be edited/deleted at any time. Notes will print on your list and will also be sent to Mackin if your order is submitted online.

Can you describe the bindings for print materials listed on the website?
Library/Reinforced (L/R) and Trade Hardcover (T-HC) bindings are publisher hardcover books. The Library binding is the best available binding and has been specially reinforced to last longer. It is intended for high-volume library use and is made to withstand the rigors of repeated checkouts. A Trade binding is a standard hardcover, and is most often what you find in a local bookstore. Mackinbound (MB) titles are prebound paperbacks that are a cost-effective alternative to publisher hardcover books and carry a lifetime guarantee. Paperbacks (PBK) are a publisher's soft cover binding. Mackin is able to Kapco these paperback titles for a charge of $1.79 per book. Kapco is a clear laminate that is applied to the entire cover to provide protection for the book. We can also provide a Colibri cover on any book for a charge of $1.29 per book. These charges are not reflected on website lists.

What do I do if I cannot find a title on the website?
Occasionally, you may be unable to find a title you are looking for on the website. This does not mean that we cannot provide the title. You may 'Insert a Title Not Found' on your list by entering as much information you have about the title and our selectors will search for the title to add to your order. You may also request a title search from a customer service representative if you need a more immediate response or have multiple titles that you are unable to find. Note: Be aware that your Search Page Preferences in your profile may cause your search to come back with “No Results” when in fact the title is in the Mackin database.

What does NYP mean?
These titles are not yet published, and an expected publication date will be indicated. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, as publishers often change release dates before publication. You can add these titles to your list; however keep in mind that if your order is submitted, these titles may not be sent if their actual publication date does not fall within the order's shipment schedule.

What does the + mean after some of the bindings listed in my lists?
The + indicates that the title is available in at least one other binding. If you click on the title and go to the full record, you may click on Additional Formats to see what others are available.

How do I prioritize titles on my list?
Priorities can either be set as titles are added to your list, or you can edit priorities once a list is created (titles automatically default to the priority set in your profile). You must first make sure that the Priority box is checked on your column selections for both searches and lists, so that the priority information displays. If you are adding a title to your list, check the box to select the title and go to the priority column to change priority. Once a list is created, you can go to the priority column when the list is open to make a change. If you prefer to default to something other than priority 'A' you may change it. Go to My Mackin and click on My Profile. Under the heading List Options, you can choose your default. Make sure that you click on Save Changes.

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(Please call 800-245-9540 for one-to-one assistance with your Mackin.com account.)