Help

Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions regarding our store and website. If you have a question that isn't answered here, or need additional information please contact us.

GENERAL QUESTIONS | ORDER QUESTIONS

GENERAL QUESTIONS

  1. The checkout is disabled for "pre-launch." When can I place my order?
    • We are working on getting our online shopping function up and running by early July. We wanted to have a web presence ready for our first pop-up event on June 26, but we couldn't quite get the online ordering off the ground in time.
  2. Where are you located?
    • We are primarily an online-only store, with occasional in-person pop-ups, mostly in Minnesota. Upcoming pop-ups will be listed in Upcoming Events.
  3. What is a Specific Benefit Corporation?
    • According to Minnesota statute, a "specific benefit corporation shall have a purpose of pursuing one or more specific public benefit purposes stated in its articles." Our articles of incorporation state: Catalyst Books & Gifts, SBC provides a welcoming space for people to buy science-related books and gifts while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in science/STEM. The store will support minoritized scientists, artists, and writers, and change the culture of science and academia both directly and indirectly. The Corporation will pursue its mission directly through promoting works by BIPOC, disabled, LGBTQIA+, and other minoritized creators. The Corporation will pursue its mission indirectly by donating proceeds from sales to organizations working to diversify and decolonize STEM; dismantle racist, sexist, and ableist structures; and improve the culture of science and academia.
  4. How do I contact you?

 

ORDER QUESTIONS

  1. If I find a book on your site, does that mean it's currently in stock at your store?
    • Not necessarily. Most of our books are shipped directly by the wholesaler, while we ship our gift stock independently. 
  2. I received a confirmation e-mail. Does this mean that my order has been shipped?
    • No. This just means that we've received your order, you will be contacted when your order has shipped.
  3. When will I get my book(s)?
    • For in stock orders we strive to ship them within 7 business day and delivery time depends on the method of shipping selected. For orders with out of stock items, we will provide an estimated date of shipment.
  4. What if I need to return something?
    • Please review our return policies and contact us with any further questions.
  5. What forms of payment do you accept?
    •  We accept credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express and if you're shopping at an in-person pop-up event, you may pay in cash.
  6. How can I check the status of my order?
    • Log in, select 'My Account' and 'Orders' and a list of all orders and their current status is provided.