Providing custom information access since 1985
PUBLISHERS'
CATALOGING-IN-PUBLICATION
Easy Steps to Acquiring your PCIP
1. Acquire an ISBN for each format of your book
An International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique identifier for books. Every format—print, e-book, audiobook—requires its own ISBN. Having these in place ensures that libraries, bookstores, and distributors can order and track the correct version of your title.
2. Acquire an LCCN/PCN if desired
*This step will likely be on hold due to the current government shutdown.*
The Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) helps libraries catalog and manage your book. The Preassigned Control Number (PCN) program allows publishers to get this number before the book is published. While not mandatory, an LCCN/PCN is especially useful for libraries that want to process your book quickly and accurately.
3. Identify BISAC codes (optional, but recommended - usually no more than 2 or 3)
BISAC (Book Industry Standards and Communications) subject codes tell bookstores where to shelve your book. Typically, you’ll choose two or three codes that best describe your subject matter. These codes improve your book’s visibility and ensure it lands in front of the right audience in brick-and-mortar and online retail spaces.
More information on BISAC codes
4. Request your PCIP block
With ISBNs, subject classifications, and (optionally) an LCCN/PCN in hand, you’re ready to request your PCIP block. This block is created by professional catalogers and includes subject headings, classification numbers, and descriptive metadata that libraries rely on to add your book to their collections.
Click here for the online form
5. Place the PCIP block in your book
Once completed, your publisher will print the PCIP block on the title page verso (the back of the title page). This is the standard location where librarians expect to find it, making it quick and easy for them to process your book.
6. Review copyright considerations
Alongside your PCIP, make sure your copyright is in order. This protects your work and establishes your legal rights as the author.
Still Need Help?
If you feel very lost and need help from start to finish, may we recommend one of our trusted professional book shepherds to help guide you through the entire process! Click on the links below to view their websites.
Order a PCIP
If you are ready to place your PCIP order, click the button below the Title Page and Verso examples for our online form.
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Book's title page and verso in PDF, JPG, or GIF format. If you don't have a digital version immediately, you can scan and fax to 973-586-3201 or email to cip-info@cassidycat.com with your book title in the subject.
The following is required information:
Book's title page and verso/draft copyright page (see examples above) in PDF, JPG, or GIF format. If you don't have a digital version, please fax to 973-586-3201 or email cip-info@cassidycat.com with your book title in the subject.
The following will be asked on the form:
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Title
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Authors
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City/State of Publication
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Publisher
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ISBN
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Edition
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Audience
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Brief Summary
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Your Name
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Company Name
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Address
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Email Address
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Phone Number
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Title Page (see above for example)
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Verso/draft copyright page (see above for example)
You will be billed upon completion of the block - First time clients require prepayment
Value added
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MARC records provide the advantage of already-cataloged records that can be immediately downloaded into local library catalogs.
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In addition to basic PCIP information, we add as many subjects as are appropriate to generate hits when a researcher is searching in a catalog.
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PCIP bibliographic records will also be uploaded to two of the world's largest bibliographic databases - OCLC WorldCat and SkyRiver. Inclusion in these massive bibliographic databases ensures that the librarian or bookseller will be able to easily and correctly enter your material into their catalog for discoverability. Records are uploaded by the third of each month and records should be available in the individual bibliographic utilities by two weeks following.
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New to PCIP? Our expert catalogers are happy to explain all of the necessary steps to get you started or answer any questions you may have about the process.
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We provide excellent quality with very fast turn-around time at a very reasonable investment price.