Self-Publishing: Library Guidelines

Library Guidelines

The Westport Library will consider self-published works for acquisition (including donations), using the same selection criteria that is used for all of our materials.

The following factors will enhance the likelihood of your book being added to the collection:

• Has positive reviews in professional journals (e.g. Library Journal, School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly, Booklist, Horn Book and/or other relevant sources)
• Has an International Standard Book Number (ISBN)
• Contains unique local or regional content
• Suitable for circulation – must be bound (no loose leaf, stapled manuscripts, spiral)
• Have had the benefit of a professional editor/proofreader
• Availability through major distributors (e.g. Baker & Taylor).

Local authors will be given preference. Local is defined as an author/illustrator currently living in lower Fairfield County, Connecticut, United States of America.

We currently are unable to acquire self-published books in electronic form.  We can only accept one copy of any title at this time.

Due to staffing and time constraints, we are not able to meet with individual authors. Unfortunately, we cannot accept review copies or notify you if your book is not selected. If your book is selected we will strive to add it to the catalog within two months.

Self-published books donated to the library by a local author will be added to our “Indie Book” collection, with minimal cataloging, for 1 year.  After that year, items will be re-evaluated based on circulation.

Donated materials that are not selected for the Collection will be considered a donation to the library’s book sale.

All submissions must go to the Collection Department with the Self-Published Books Submission Form.

Thank you for your interest in making your book available through the Library.