Can I send books at a reduced rate?
ri-DOT-to — three syllables; stress on the second. 'Ridotto' = reduced (past participle of ridurre).
Use this to ask about the book rate (tariffa libri), which historically offered discounted postage for printed matter. This service may be reduced or eliminated depending on current Poste Italiane offerings.
Italy historically offered a 'tariffa libri' (book rate) or 'pacco libri' for sending books at reduced cost. However, Poste Italiane has modified and in some cases eliminated these special rates. The clerk will confirm current pricing. For international book sending, the ISAL (International Surface Air Lift) service exists.
Ho dei libri da spedire — come conviene?
I have books to send — what's the cheapest way?
Open question about the most economical option
Esiste ancora la tariffa speciale per i libri?
Does the special rate for books still exist?
Checking whether the old book rate is still available
Posso spedire un pacco misto con libri e altri oggetti?
Can I send a mixed parcel with books and other items?
Mixed parcels don't qualify for book rates — must be books only
Italy has a strong literary tradition and book postage rates have long been a subject of cultural policy. Subsidised book rates were part of an effort to promote reading and cultural exchange. In recent decades, as Poste Italiane has commercialised, these special rates have been reduced. Amazon's dominance in online bookselling has further reduced the practical need for individual book postage.