Independent authors already do the work of a publishing house. PCIP helps make sure the finished book is also professionally prepared for libraries.
Cataloging data can quietly determine how easily libraries can process and discover your book
As an independent author, you manage writing, editing, cover design, formatting, pricing, and distribution. But one important publishing detail is often overlooked: professional cataloging data.
That is exactly what PCIP—Publisher’s Cataloging-in-Publication—is designed to provide.
Why independent authors need PCIP
Professional cataloging helps libraries identify, process, organize, and surface your book for readers.
Libraries cannot shelve—or even list—what they cannot catalog
Before a library can make your book searchable in its system, it must create a bibliographic record containing the title, contributors, subjects, classifications, and identifiers.
When a book arrives without cataloging data, processing may be delayed because library staff must spend additional time researching and creating the record.
PCIP helps your book get processed faster
A PCIP block places essential cataloging information directly inside the book in a standard format librarians recognize.
By reducing the work required to create the initial catalog record, PCIP can help the book become available to library readers sooner.
PCIP makes your book easier for readers to find
One of the most valuable parts of a PCIP block is the subject headings. These are structured search terms used by librarians and patrons when searching a library catalog.
Strong subject headings improve discovery by helping the book appear in searches by topic—not only by title or author name.
Most independent authors cannot receive official LC CIP
The Library of Congress CIP Program is designed primarily for established publishers and has eligibility requirements that exclude most self-published authors and many small presses.
PCIP provides a professional alternative: a CIP-style data block prepared by a qualified cataloger and ready to print inside the book.
PCIP supports library sales and professional credibility
Libraries prefer books that are easy to acquire, process, and catalog. Including PCIP signals that the book has been professionally prepared with library workflows in mind.
This can strengthen the book’s presentation to acquisitions librarians, local library buyers, wholesalers, and institutional purchasers.
PCIP pairs well with an LCCN
Before publication, eligible authors and publishers can request an LCCN through the Library of Congress PCN Program.
Once approved, the LCCN can be placed on the copyright page before the book is published.
PCIP complements the LCCN by adding complete, library-oriented cataloging data.
A recognized control number together with complete cataloging information prepared for library use.
What you get with PCIP
A professional cataloging package designed for placement inside your book and use by libraries.
Professionally formatted PCIP block
Prepared in a format ready to place on your copyright page.
Library-oriented cataloging
Created to support library discovery, identification, and processing.
Fast turnaround
Typically completed within a few days and never more than two weeks.
Clear pricing
If libraries are part of your strategy, PCIP is one of the strongest pre-publication upgrades you can make
Libraries are one of the few channels where books can remain in circulation for years, where discoverability compounds over time, and where one strong catalog record can support long-term readership.
PCIP helps a self-published book enter that environment with the preparation and professionalism expected from an established publishing house.
PCIP helps you show up like a professional publisher—because in practice, you already are one.
Order a professional PCIP block
Submit your book information and receive a cataloging block prepared for your copyright page.