Application for an ISBN (International Standard Book Number). You can print this form, fill it out and send it with your fee to obtain your ISBN--a requirement for selling your book at most bookstores and other retail outlets.

Library of Congress

The U.S. Library of Congress has prepared an excellent site called "Services for Publishers" that you should refer to for answers to questions about International Standard Book Numbering (ISBN), Cataloging in Publication (CIP), Preassigned Card Numbers (PCN) and copyright issues.

Copyright forms

At this site you can download the forms you need to complete in order to register your copyright with the US Copyright office. The forms you need for your book(s) are Form TX or Form TX with instructions.

Publishing Law Center

Here you will find helpful information on publishing contracts, copyright, trademark, subsidiary rights, electronic rights, licensing, and other intellectual property issues. Free newsletter.

Publishers Marketing Association (PMA)

As a self-publishing author, you are now an independent publisher. Visit the home page for the PMA, "the largest non-profit trade association representing independent publishers of books, audio, video and CDs."

Small Publishers Association of North America (SPAN)

This organization's mission "is to advance the image and profits of authors and independent publishers through education and marketing opportunities." The "national voice of the independent publishing profession," SPAN claims to be the second-largest publishing organization in the world.

Elements of Style, by William Strunk, Jr.

A classic collection of English language tools, including rules of usage, words and expressions commonly misused, and common misspellings. All online.

The Book of Cliches

Worn-out phrases that worked once but should be graciously retired and moved out of the way. All online.

Bartleby's English Usage Collection

Quick access to some of the web's best online resources for writers, including the Columbia Encyclopedia, American Heritage Dictionary, Roget's Thesaurus, American Heritage Book of English Usage, Bartlett's Famous Quotations, and many others.