I have a question.  I placed an order for a book and then got an e-mail from PBS with "Request Accepted" in the subject line.  Does this mean that the person listing the book has accepted the request and will be shipping, or does it just mean that PBS has processed the request?

It means PBS has - it's in the system.

It just means that PBS has processed the request.

I've always thought that phrase was used incorrectly.  I have to assume that PBS accepts the order as I've seen it go through by clicking on the appropriate site buttons myself.  It'd be better if they reworded that, and perhaps sent an additional email when the sender has actually accepted the request.

So how do we know when the person listing the book has accepted the request?

Go to your main page under My Account.  When you are at the main page you should see the book listed and should be able to tell if the book was accepted and on its way to you.  You will be able to track if your book is still waiting for a member response or if the member accepted and will be sending you a book. 

Under Books I've requested it'll say either Waiting For Member, Accepted, Accepted Will Mail By x date or Accepte: Printed.  Members have 5 days to respond to a request. With the Holidays people may be waiting longer to accept so that they have more time to mail.