What Is an LCCN and Should You Get One as an Indie Author or Publisher?
If you are an indie author or publisher based in the United States and have the goal of getting your beautiful book into libraries, then you may want to consider applying for an LCCN before publishing your book.
As indie authors and publishers, we have full control over how we present our books to the world and how we market them. We each have our own goals and dreams for how our books are made available and how they connect with our intended audience. For many authors, seeing their books in libraries is a meaningful goal. Library distribution doesn't generally lead to significant monetary compensation (at least not initially), but it is a wonderful way to introduce your book to new readers and families.
So, what is an LCCN?
LCCN stands for Library of Congress Control Number. It is a preassigned number that is printed on a book's copyright page and helps libraries identify and catalog your book. Essentially, having an LCCN makes it easier for libraries to locate your book and incorporate it into their cataloging system.
It is important to note that an LCCN is not a copyright or trademark, nor is it a replacement for your book's ISBN. It is simply a cataloging tool that makes things a little easier for librarians. Since librarians catalog hundreds, if not thousands, of books each year, anything that streamlines the cataloging process can be beneficial.
Why might you consider getting one?
If you plan to sell your book exclusively through online retailers such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble, an LCCN is probably unnecessary. Similarly, if you primarily sell your books at in-person events, having an LCCN is unlikely to make much of a difference.
However, if you'd like to see your book one day in public libraries, school libraries, universities, or other educational organizations, then obtaining an LCCN is certainly worth considering. It can make the cataloging process easier for libraries while also adding another professional touch to your publication.
When should you apply?
You must apply for your LCCN before your book is published, but after you have finalized your book's title, subtitle, and ISBN. Once assigned, the number can be added to your book's copyright page before it goes to print.
How do you apply?
The application process is straightforward and completely free. You apply through the Library of Congress's PrePub Book Link (PPBL) system (www.loc.gov/programs/prepub-book-link). Simply create an account through the Author Portal and submit an LCCN request for your upcoming book.
The application itself takes only a few minutes. Once approved, you'll receive an email from the Library of Congress containing your LCCN, along with instructions for how it should appear on your copyright page.
The final step takes place after publication. Once your book has been published, you'll send a physical copy to the Library of Congress, where it will be evaluated for inclusion in its permanent collection.
Whether or not you choose to apply for an LCCN is entirely up to you and your publishing goals. Personally, I choose to obtain LCCNs for my children's books and adult nonfiction books because I hope they'll eventually find their way into libraries and educational settings. Since the process is quick, free, and easy, I think it's well worth considering if library distribution is one of your goals as an indie author.
