Updated: April 2025
As a self-published author preparing your book for publication, you’ll encounter several important identification systems and cataloging standards. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about ISBN, PCN, and PCIP—what they are, how to obtain them, and why they matter for your publishing success.
Table of contents
ISBN: International Standard Book Number
What is an ISBN?
An ISBN (International Standard Book Number) is a unique 13-digit identifier assigned to each format of a book. It’s essentially a product identifier used by publishers, booksellers, libraries, and retailers to order, list, and track books.
Why You Need an ISBN
ISBNs are crucial for self-published authors because they:
- Allow bookstores and online retailers to identify and order your book
- Help track sales across different platforms
- Make your book discoverable in book databases and search engines
- Identify specific formats (hardcover, paperback, ebook) of your book
- Establish you as the publisher of record
How to Obtain ISBNs
In the United States, Bowker is the official ISBN agency. In Canada, ISBNs are issued by Library and Archives Canada. Here’s how to get them:
United States:
- Purchase through Bowker at myidentifiers.com
- Single ISBN: approximately $125
- Block of 10 ISBNs: approximately $295 (more cost-effective if publishing multiple books or formats)
Canada:
- Canadian publishers and self-publishers can obtain ISBNs for free through Library and Archives Canada
- Apply through the Canadian ISBN Service System
ISBN Best Practices
- Use a different ISBN for each format of your book (hardcover, paperback, ebook, audiobook)
- Don’t reuse ISBNs, even for reprints with minor corrections
- Include the ISBN on the copyright page and on the back cover (usually in the barcode)
- Register your ISBN with Bowker’s Books in Print database for better discoverability
PCN: Preassigned Control Number Program
What is a PCN/LCCN?
A PCN (Preassigned Control Number) is a program run by the Library of Congress that assigns a unique identifier known as an LCCN (Library of Congress Control Number) to your book before it’s published. This number helps libraries catalog your book and makes it easier for them to add your title to their collections.
Who Can Apply for a PCN?
The good news for self-published authors is that the PCN program is accessible to indie authors, unlike the full CIP program. To be eligible:
- Your book must be printed and bound (not just an ebook)
- Your book must have a spine
- Your book must contain at least 50 pages
- Your book must be distributed in the United States
How to Apply for a PCN (LCCN)
Follow these steps to obtain a Library of Congress Control Number for your self-published book:
- Create an account on the PCN application website Visit the PCN Program website and register as a publisher.
- Verify eligibility Ensure your book meets all the requirements listed above.
- Complete the application form Provide details including:
- Book title and subtitle
- Author information
- Publication date
- ISBN
- Basic subject information
- Trim size and binding information
- Wait for processing Applications are typically processed within 5-14 business days.
- Add the LCCN to your copyright page Once assigned, format it as: “Library of Congress Control Number: 2025XXXXXX”
- Send a copy to the Library of Congress After publication, you’ll need to send a complimentary copy to the address provided in your confirmation email.
Benefits of Having an LCCN
- Makes your book more accessible to libraries
- Adds professional credibility to your publication
- Simplifies the cataloging process for librarians
- Increases the chances of library acquisition
PCIP: Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication
What is PCIP Data?
PCIP (Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication) data is a block of cataloging information that appears on the copyright page of a book. It contains standardized bibliographic information that helps libraries catalog your book efficiently.
Different Types of Cataloging Data
It’s important to understand the difference between several types of cataloging data:
- CIP (Cataloging-in-Publication): Official cataloging data created by the Library of Congress or Library and Archives Canada. Generally not available to self-published authors in the U.S.
- PCIP (Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication): Similar data created by third-party cataloging services, following the same format and standards.
- LCCN (Library of Congress Control Number): A unique identifier, which is different from the full cataloging data block.
Options for Self-Published Authors
U.S. Authors
The Library of Congress CIP Program is restricted to established publishers who:
- Publish at least 5 titles per year
- Are U.S. commercial publishers, university presses, museums, or professional associations
Instead, self-published authors can:
- Obtain an LCCN through the PCN program (as described above)
- Use third-party PCIP services to create a full cataloging data block
Canadian Authors
The CIP program in Canada is more accessible to self-publishers who:
- Have published at least two titles under their imprint
- Plan to publish at least one title per year
- Have a Canadian presence
- Distribute books beyond the author’s immediate circle
Canadian self-publishers who don’t meet these requirements can also use third-party cataloging services.
Third-Party PCIP Services
Self-published authors can hire professional catalogers to create PCIP data. These services typically:
- Cost between $100-$150 USD
- Provide professionally created cataloging information following library standards
- Deliver a formatted data block to include on your copyright page
Reputable providers include:
- Cassidy Cataloguing Services
- Five Rainbows Cataloging Services
Comparison Chart: ISBN vs. PCN vs. PCIP
| Feature | ISBN | PCN/LCCN | PCIP |
| Purpose | Commercial identification and sales tracking | Library identification | Library cataloging information |
| Required for | Book distribution, retailers, sales | Library cataloging | Professional library cataloging |
| Who issues it | National ISBN agencies (e.g. Bowker in US) | Library of Congress | Third-Party catalogers (for self-publishers) |
| Cost | $125+ for single ISBN from Bowker | Free | $100 – $150 through third-party services |
| Format | 13-digit number | Number (example: 2025123456) | Text block with subject headings and metadata |
| Necessity | Essential for retail distribution | Helpful for library distribution | Beneficial for serious library marketing |
Copyright Page Formatting
Sample Copyright Page with ISBN, LCCN and PCIP
Here’s how to format your copyright page with all three elements:
© 2025 [Author Name]
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
ISBN: 978-1-234567-89-0 (paperback)
ISBN: 978-1-234567-90-6 (ebook)
Library of Congress Control Number: 2025XXXXXX
[PCIP DATA BLOCK GOES HERE – This will be a formatted block of text provided by your cataloging service]
Cover design by: [Designer Name]
Interior formatting by: [Formatter Name]
First Edition: [Month Year]
[Publisher Name and Address]
[Publisher Website]
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but each serves a different purpose:
– ISBN is essential for retail distribution
– LCCN helps with library cataloging
– PCIP data makes your book more attractive to libraries
For direct sales only, you might only need an ISBN. For serious library marketing, consider obtaining all three.
Self-published authors cannot get official CIP data directly from the Library of Congress, but they can obtain an LCCN through the PCN program and/or use third-party PCIP services to create library-standard metadata for their books.
CIP data is created by national libraries (Library of Congress or Library and Archives Canada), while PCIP data is created by third-party cataloging services. They follow the same format and purpose, but official CIP data is only available to established publishers.
Third-party PCIP services typically cost between $100-$150 USD for a standard book. The price may vary based on the complexity of the book (technical manuals, multilingual texts, or books with extensive bibliographies may cost more).
The PCIP or CIP data block traditionally appears on the copyright page (also called the verso of the title page), which is typically the reverse side of the title page near the beginning of the book.
Libraries don’t strictly require LCCN numbers for self-published books, but having one significantly increases the chances of library acquisition. An LCCN helps library staff quickly catalog your book using existing records, saving them time and resources.
