frequently asked questions

View FAQs by clicking on a category below or simply scroll down the page.

Categories

About Capstone

Who is Capstone?

Capstone is the leading publisher of preK-12 children’s books for libraries and classrooms. Our authors, artists and designers create rich experiences—from nonfiction, fiction and picture books to interactive books, audio books and literacy programs—which ignite kids’ passion for learning.

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Accelerated Reader®

Are your books on Accelerated Reader®?

Yes, Accelerated Reader quizzes are available for nearly all of our books. While you’re browsing, you’ll notice Accelerated Reader indicated beside those titles and sets where the quizzes are available.

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Author Bios & School Visits

Where can I find information about a Capstone author?

Contact us for biographical sketches or information on school program visits.

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Binding Guarantee

Will your books stand up to repeated use in a library?

Capstone books are reinforced with library bindings strong enough to stand up to the toughest of patrons while keeping their attractive appearance for years to come. Every Capstone book is colorful, durable and guaranteed for life.

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Book Information

May I preview a book before purchasing?

Yes. View most books online by clicking the Google® preview tool below the book cover you wish to preview, or contact your sales representative to see a sample.

How are reading levels determined?

We use standard leveling tools – including ATOS, Lexile®, Guided Reading, Early Intervention and DRA – to match students with books at their reading levels. For your convenience, view our leveling chart to see how these systems correlate with grade levels and each other. Use our chart as a guide to help you select books that meet the needs of your readers, understanding that this is a guide and does not reflect each student’s specific need.

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Capstone Rewards

Where can I find information on the Capstone Rewards program?

You can find answers to questions on our free rewards program by accessing Capstone Rewards.

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Catalog Requests

How can I order a copy of your catalog?

Request or download a copy of our catalog online or contact customer service and we’ll send one right out to you.

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CollectionWiz™

Where can I find information on CollectionWiz?

You can find answers to questions on our free online service by accessing CollectionWiz.

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Correlation Requests

Where can I find information on state and national correlations?

You can easily locate the Capstone titles aligned to your state's curriculum standards by accessing correlations when you search for a book. Consider using CollectionWiz, our free online analysis tool, which takes the guesswork out of collection management and automatically recommends titles that correlate to your state's standards.

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International Orders

How do I purchase books outside the U.S.?

Contact us for international sales or work through your local distributor if you are ordering outside the U.S.

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Library Processing Specifications

What is the charge for library processing?

We provide free attached or unattached catalog card or automation kits with any order of 25 books or more. For orders fewer than 25 books, a flat fee of $12 is charged for unattached catalog or automation kits.

Do you archive library processing specifications?

Yes. We retain all customer processing specifications. Don't waste time filling out library processing forms each time you order. We'll do it for you. Use our Library Processing Wizard to file your specs online or contact customer service and we’ll be happy to help.

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Online Information & Troubleshooting

What do I do if I forgot my password?

If you’ve forgotten your user ID or password, access the login page and click on forgot your password? and follow the prompts. A temporary password will be sent to your email.

Who do I contact if there is a problem?

Contact customer service if problems or questions arise with your order. Or, use our live chat feature and talk to us directly, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST.

Is this site secure?

Yes, all personal information—including name, address and credit card information—is stored on a secure network. For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

Do you have to have a subscription to use the Interactive library? Who can use it?

Yes. Capstone Interactive Library has multiple subscription options for your library. Contact your sales representative or visit Capstone Interactive Library for more information.

What digital products and services are available?

We have a variety of innovative digital products (including Capstone Interactive Library™, CapstoneKids™, FactHound™ and PebbleGo™) and services (CollectionWiz™ and Library Processing ) that are available to librarians, teachers and students.

I’m not receiving the emails I signed up for. What should I do?

Email filters may be blocking your ability to view our emails or the emails may be automatically sent into a spam folder within your email account. Check your spam folder to see if Capstone emails are in the queue. If so, add Capstone to your Favorites folder and our emails will reach you. If you continue to have difficulties, contact customer service.

How can I search to find exactly what I am looking for?

Use the book’s ISBN number, title, year, author, or keyword from the book in the Quick Search. Or use our Advanced Search for more filtering options.

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Order, Shipping and Sales

How do I place my first order online?

First you will need to create a profile, which includes a user ID and password. Your ID and password enables you to browse our catalog and shop all the Capstone imprints. Select the titles you wish to purchase and place these in your cart. When you’re ready to purchase, click on My Account and View Shopping Cart. Follow the prompts to review your titles, adjust your list if necessary and then proceed through the payment and shipping process. After checkout, you will receive a confirmation in your email, which includes purchase order details.

What is your shipping charge?

Shipping is free on orders of 25 books or more. For fewer than 25 books, shipping costs are 10% of the order total, with a minimum $4 charge.

Do you charge sales tax?

Sales tax will be added to orders, if required by law. Some states (NC, IL, AZ, CA) may be taxed.

How do I check the status of my order?

If you order online, or provide an email address with your order, we will send you tracking information to check your order status. Or, simply contact customer service.

How long before my order arrives?

Our average delivery time is 10 days and our fill-rate is more than 98%. We work hard to quickly get the books on your shelves and in your kids’ hands and make our business repeat business.

How can I order from Capstone?

  • Place your order online, through your local sales rep or contact us directly:
    • Phone: (800-747-4992, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. CST)
    • Fax (888-262-0705)
    • Email
    • Send your order to:
      • Capstone
      • 1710 Roe Crest Drive
      • North Mankato, MN 56003

How do I pay?

Institutions may use a purchase order and be billed for orders. All personal orders must be pre-paid. We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, personal checks and money orders.

What is your return or exchange policy?

Capstone has an unconditional guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your order, simply contact customer service. We’re happy to replace items, credit your account or issue a full refund.

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Rights, Permissions & Donations

Are translation rights available for your titles?

Contact us for more information on translation rights.

How may I obtain permission to photocopy or republish excerpts from a Capstone title?

Contact us for republishing information.

How can I receive a review copy of a title for consideration in my magazine, blog, etc?

Contact us for details if you would like a review copy for your publication.

How are donations awarded?

Each year, through our parent company, Coughlan Companies, Inc., Capstone awards a variety of gifts and grants that benefit children. Click here for more information about community giving and our application process.

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Sales Representatives

How can I find my local sales rep?

Use our Sales Rep Locator to find your local sales representative.

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Submissions

Where can I send my resume and sample work?

Authors and illustrators are encouraged to follow our submission guidelines when submitting samples and background information.

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