Use this quick guide to identify the right cataloging path for your book before publication.
I am a beginner. Which path should I follow?
Your publisher is eligible for official LC CIP
Apply for CIP. The Library of Congress sends a CIP Data Block to print in the book.
Your title is not eligible for LC CIP, but is eligible for PCN
Request a PCN/LCCN before publication, then order PCIP when you need a complete printed cataloging block.
Your book is already published
PCN is not available for that title. Consider professional cataloging support instead.
Your book is ebook-only
It is generally outside PCN scope. You may still need an ISBN for the ebook format.
Compare the main cataloging options
Review who provides each service, what you receive, and which publishing situation it best supports.
| Term | Who creates or assigns it? | What you get | Printed in the book? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CIP | Library of Congress | A fully cataloged bibliographic record and CIP Data Block. | Yes As a CIP Data Block | Eligible U.S. publishers whose books are likely to be widely acquired by U.S. libraries. |
| PCN | Library of Congress | A preassigned LCCN before publication; not a full printed CIP block. | Optional The LCCN may be printed; the PCN record itself is not printed. | Authors and publishers who are not using LC CIP but have an eligible forthcoming title. |
| PCIP | Professional or contract cataloger | A CIP-style bibliographic block prepared outside the Library of Congress. | Yes | Independent publishers and self-publishers targeting library sales. |
| LCCN | Library of Congress | A control number associated with a bibliographic record. | Often Usually shown on the copyright page. | Library identification and processing. |
| ISBN | ISBN agency or publisher | A unique commercial identifier for each format or edition. | Usually Commonly printed on the copyright page and barcode area. | Book trade, retail, distribution, and format identification. |