Frequently Asked Questions

Q: ARE YOU OPEN TO THE PUBLIC RIGHT NOW?

A: Yes, we are open daily from 12-6pm.  Masks are encouraged but not required.

Q:I just placed an order and the status is "Pending."  What does that mean?

A: "Pending" means your order has been received and is in our queue.  We process orders in the order that they are received.  Once we are working on your order, the status will change to processing/payment received.

Q: How will I know if my order is ready for pick up?

A: We will email you.  It is currently taking 1-3 days to complete orders for books we have in stock at the store.  It is currently taking at least 3-5 business days to complete orders that include books we have to order from our publisher/distributor.

Q:  How will I know if my order has shipped?

A:  You will receive emailed tracking information.  It is currently taking 1-3 days to complete orders for books we have in stock at the store.  It is currently taking at least 3-5 business days to complete orders that include books we have to order from our publisher/distributor.

Q: IF I ORDER A BOOK FOR PICK UP, CAN I GET IT TODAY?

A: No. We will email when you order is ready for pick up.  Even for in stock books, it will take up to 24 hours for your order to be ready for pick up.  Please wait to hear from us before coming to the store.

Q: I'm placing an order for multiple books. Can I pick them up as they come in?

A: Our default is to email you when your complete order is ready for pick up.  If you wish to pick them up, as they come, please email us to make arrangements.

Q: WHAT DO I DO WHEN MY BOOK IS READY FOR PICK UP? WHAT IS THE PROTOCOL?

A:  When you arrive at Alphabet City, please enter the red doors and go to the left.  Follow the signs and make your way to the bookstore's cash register.  Give the bookseller on hand your last name and they will retrieve your order for you.

Q: DO YOU SELL CITY OF ASYLUM MERCHANDISE

A: Absolutely! You can find our CoA tees, mugs, and greeting cards here.

Q: DO YOU SELL GIFT CERTIFICATES

A: Absolutely! Our gift cards are available here.

Q: Can I use a City of Asylum Bookstore gift certificate on the website?

A:  Absolutely!  At checkout, please enter the four digit code found on your gift certificate in the gift card pane.  We will process it manually.  More info about gift certificates can be found here.

Thank you for your support - we're so grateful!