CopyrightTips from experts* at CopyrightsNow.com
All three numbers are very different… and serve different purposes. But only CRN (Copyright Registration) provides for copyright protection and enforcement for your book and creative works!
What is LCCN?
A Library of Congress Control Number (LCCN) is a unique identification number that the Library of Congress assigns to the catalog record created for each book in its cataloged collections.
An LCCN is NOT the same as a copyright registration and does not provide copyright protection even though both are filed with the Library of Congress. An LCCN differs from an ISBN in that an ISBN is assigned to each edition and format of your book while the LCCN is assigned to the work itself. You can only register printed books (not e-books) for LCCN and only before they are published.
Librarians use LCCN to locate a specific book in the Library of Congress catalog record in national databases.
LCCNs are useful for non-fiction, technical, research or how-to learning books that you want to make available to libraries. Many authors also use an LCCN to enhance credibility.
If you want your book to be cataloged at the Library of Congress (which is largest library) then you need an LCCN number. If you want to sell your book online, in book stores and libraries, then you only need an ISBN — not an LCCN.
Getting an LCCN is a two-step process and can take from one to several weeks.
The Library of Congress uses a system called a Preassigned Control Number (PCN) to assign your book an LCCN before publication. This allows you to include the information on your copyright page, such as:
Library of Congress Control Number: 20249991234
What is ISBN?
An International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each specific edition and format of a book, such as hardcover, paperback, e-book, audio-book, etc. It is used to identify and track books in the book industry. A separate ISBN is needed for each book format, edition, and publisher.
Once you set up your account with Bowker, your ISBNs will be added to your account immediately at purchase (Title Assignment Instructions). You will be recognized as the publisher of all book titles associated with those ISBNs.
An ISBN ensures your book's information will be stored in the Books in Print database which is consulted by publishers, retailers and libraries around the world.
If you want to sell your book online, in book stores and libraries, then you need an ISBN. Click www.myidentifiers.com to learn more about ISBNs.
What is CRN (Copyright Registration Number or Case #)?
Copyright Registration is required to protect and enforce your copyright. You do not need a separate copyright for each ISBN. Copyright applies to the work as a whole, not to specific editions or formats of the work. You can register both unpublished and published works.
Copyright is intended to protect the original expression of an idea in the form of a creative work, but not the idea itself. Copyright provides legal protection to the creators of original works, such as printed book, e-book, audio-book, video, photos, illustrations, pictures, songs, software and website.
While you are automatically granted a copyright when you create an original work, the U.S. Supreme Court requires that you register your copyrights before filing a copyright infringement lawsuit to protect and enforce your rights.
Once issued, the Copyright Registration Number provides proof of that your copyright is registered with the U. S. Copyright Office.
Click www.myidentifiers.com/copyrightsnow to learn more about purchasing your copyright registration.
MORE TECHNICAL DETAILS…
How to file a Copyright Registration
A copyright application is filed with the United States Copyright Office which is part of the Library of Congress, and provides an official Certificate of Registration from the Copyright Office which is needed to enforce your copyrights which LCCNs and ISBNs do not.
Copyright registration protects your work... and if you wish to enforce your copyrights and bring a lawsuit for infringement... you must have registered your work.
The United States Copyright Office, is part of the Library of Congress. It is the official U.S. government body that maintains records of copyright registration in the United States. It is used by copyright title searchers who are attempting to clear a chain of title for copyrighted works.
Sound confusing? Rest Easy… By using a copyright preparation tool like CopyrightsNow®… the system edits and validates your application with AI algorithms… and each application is reviewed by a Specialist to minimize potential issues which may cause delays or rejection by the USCO.
CopyrightsNow® also provides On-line HELP for each screen with detailed data element descriptions and ‘Use-Case’ procedures.
To start your copyright registration protection, click www.myidentifiers.com/copyrightsnow.
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* The information contained in this post and software application are believed to be accurate at the time of publication; however, copyright regulations change and subject to various interpretations… so always
consult with a personal attorney for legal advice.
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damages resulting from reliance upon statements and tutorial material.
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