How Indie Authors Can Get a Book into the Library of Congress (And Why You Should Care)

Getting your indie book cataloged by the Library of Congress might sound like something only traditional publishers can do—but that’s not true. Independent authors and small presses can secure a Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) through a free program designed specifically for this purpose.

While getting an LCCN doesn’t guarantee automatic distribution to libraries nationwide, it does something equally valuable: it gives your book professional credibility and makes it easier for librarians and metadata systems to discover and catalog your work.
Let’s walk through exactly how to do it.

What Is an LCCN (And Why Does It Matter)?

The Library of Congress Control Number is a unique identifier assigned to bibliographic records for books. Think of it as a cataloging fingerprint that helps librarians correctly identify and organize titles in their systems.

Having an LCCN on your copyright page signals to libraries, distributors, and bibliographic services that your book meets professional publishing standards. It increases the likelihood that:

• Librarians will consider acquiring your book
• Metadata providers will accurately link your title across systems
• Your book appears legitimate and professionally produced

In short, it’s metadata muscle that helps your catalog footprint grow.

Understanding the PCN Program vs. Full CIP

The pathway available to most indie authors is the Preassigned Control Number (PCN) Program—not to be confused with the full Cataloging-in-Publication (CIP) Program.

PCN allows you to request an LCCN before publication. It’s free and open to U.S.-based self-publishers and small presses.

CIP is much harder to qualify for and typically requires publishers to have multiple titles already widely held in library collections. Most indie authors won’t meet these criteria initially.

The good news? PCN gives you the professional cataloging number you need without the barriers.
https://www.loc.gov/programs/preassigned-control-number/about-this-program/

Step-by-Step: How to Get Your LCCN

Step 1: Make Sure You Qualify

To use the PCN program, you need:

• A U.S.-based publisher or imprint (even if that’s just you)
• An ISBN for your book (more on this below)
• A publication date at least 32 days in the future from when you apply
• A manuscript that’s close to final form

Yes, eBook-only titles are eligible! You can apply for digital-only publications, though you’ll still need to submit materials after publication (more on that later).

Step 2: Get Your ISBN First

You’ll need your ISBN before applying. While you can use a free ISBN from platforms like Amazon KDP or IngramSpark, I strongly recommend purchasing your own ISBN from Bowker (the official U.S. ISBN agency).

Why?

• More control: You’re listed as the publisher, not Amazon or another platform
• Less likely to be pirated: Professional metadata makes your book harder to exploit
• Better library perception: Librarians see books with publisher-owned ISBNs as more professional products

A single ISBN costs around $125, or you can buy in bulk for better rates. It’s an investment in your publishing business.
https://www.myidentifiers.com/identify-protect-your-book/isbn/buy-isbn

Step 3: Create Your PrePub Book Link Account

The PCN program runs through the Library of Congress’s PrePub Book Link (PPBL) system.

1. Go to the Author Portal on PrePub Book Link
2. Create your free account
3. Verify your email and log in

Step 4: Submit Your LCCN Request

Once your account is active:

Click “Request LCCN”

Enter your book details:

Title
Author name
Publisher/imprint name
ISBN(s)
Expected publication date (must be at least 32 days out)
Page count or format information (optional but helpful)

Pro tip: Apply when your manuscript is close to final so the information you provide matches what actually gets published. This goes directly on your copyright page, so accuracy matters.

Step 5: Wait for Your LCCN (Usually 10–15 Business Days)

Most PCN requests are processed within two weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive your preassigned LCCN through the PPBL dashboard.

Step 6: Add the LCCN to Your Copyright Page

Include your assigned number on the copyright page

Library of Congress Control Number: 2026xxxxxx

This simple line identifies your book formally for librarians and cataloging systems worldwide.

Step 7: Send Required Materials After Publication

This step is critical and non-negotiable.

After your book is published, you must send the required materials to the Library of Congress. Failure to do so can result in removal from the program.

For print books: Mail one physical copy to:

Library of Congress
U.S. Programs, Law and Literature Division
Cataloging in Publication Program
101 Independence Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20540-4283

For eBook-only titles: Check the current submission guidelines in your PPBL dashboard, as digital-only requirements may involve uploading files or providing access information.

Recommended Timeline for Authors
Here’s a realistic timeline to help you plan: 90+ Days Before Publication

1. Purchase your ISBN from Bowker
2. Finalize your manuscript
3. Design your cover and interior (so page count is accurate)

60–90 Days Before Publication

1. Create your PrePub Book Link account
2. Submit your LCCN request (remember: must be at least 32 days before pub date)

45–60 Days Before Publication

1. Receive your LCCN
2. Add it to your copyright page
3. Finalize your book files

Publication Day

Within 30 Days After Publication

1. Mail your physical copy (or submit digital materials) to the Library of Congress
2. Track confirmation in your PPBL dashboard

What About Copyright Registration?

While the LCCN and copyright registration are separate processes, I always recommend indie authors register their copyright with the U.S. Copyright Office as well.

Why?

• Legal protection in case of infringement
• Official public record of your authorship
• Required if you ever need to sue for copyright violation
• Professional peace of mind

The registration fee is currently around $55 per title through the Copyright Office’s online portal. It’s a small price for significant legal protection.

You can register online at https://copyright.gov/registration/.

What PCN Is—and Isn’t

Let’s be clear about what this program does and doesn’t do:

✔ PCN gives you:

1. A professional LCCN to include on your copyright page
2. Increased credibility with libraries and metadata systems
3. Better discoverability for cataloging purposes
4. A legitimate cataloging record

✘ PCN does NOT guarantee:

1. Automatic inclusion in the Library’s permanent collection (that depends on librarians’ selection criteria)
2. Distribution to other libraries (though it helps)
3. Bestseller status or marketing miracles

Think of it as opening a door—not walking through it automatically. The LCCN makes your book eligible for serious consideration by libraries and professional systems.

Why This Matters for Your Publishing Business

As an indie author, every professional touch you add to your books increases their chances of being taken seriously by readers, retailers, and institutions.

Adding an LCCN:

• Positions you as a professional publisher, not just a hobbyist
• Makes your book easier for libraries to acquire and catalog
• Improves your metadata across distribution channels
• Shows you’re investing in quality and legitimacy

Combined with your own ISBN and copyright registration, you’re building a publishing foundation that respects your work—and helps others respect it too.

Quick Checklist: Getting Your LCCN

✅ Purchase your ISBN from Bowker
✅ Finalize your manuscript (at least close to final)
✅ Create your PrePub Book Link account
✅ Submit LCCN request at least 32 days before publication
✅ Add your LCCN to your copyright page
✅ Mail physical copy (or submit digital materials) after publication
✅ Consider registering copyright separately ($55)
✅ Track confirmations in your PPBL dashboard

Final Thoughts

Getting your indie book into the Library of Congress cataloging system is easier than most authors realize—and it’s completely free. With a little planning and attention to detail, you can add this professional credential to every book you publish.

It won’t replace good marketing or quality writing, but it’s one more tool in your publishing toolbox that signals you’re serious about your work.

And in the indie publishing world, professionalism and credibility go a long way.

Ready to get started? Visit the PrePub Book Link portal and create your account today.
Questions about ISBNs, copyright registration, or professional publishing setup? Contact Southern Dragon Publishing Services for consultation and support.

If you have any questions about our services, classes, or just general questions about your writing business please use the CONTACT US form. You can Check Out Our New Online Courses we are developing for “Learn At Your Own Pace” style classes: https://courses.southerndragonpublishing.com/

This article is part of our ongoing series helping indie authors navigate the business side of publishing.

A Quick Review of Fiction Book Marketing by Jolene MacFadden