Columbia County Author Special Collection Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is a special collection?

A group of materials (in this case printed) that do not fall within the collection guidelines of other materials in the library. In this case, we are using this opportunity to better support local authors and make their work more accessible to the community. The collection will be housed in the library, and most items will be available for check out. Exceptions may include items that are too fragile to be checked out. Those items will be available to use in the library.

The library also houses the Local History Special Collection, which holds historical books, maps, and other printed material. It is housed in the new Local History Room, separate from other collections. Items are available for use in the library.

Who is eligible to submit a book for consideration?

Anyone who lives or works in Columbia County or is a member of a Columbia County writing group is eligible. Due to budget constrictions at this time, the library can only accept donated materials.

Why can I only submit one book to the collection?

Due to space limitations and the time necessary to prepare materials for circulation, the library can only accept one book per author per calendar year.

What if the library already has one of my books in its main collection?

If the library already has one of your books in their main collection, you may choose to donate an additional copy to the special collection. Alternatively, you may donate a different book.

What kind of book can I submit?

Any published book is one that has been made available to the general public (as opposed to being a private work), either for sale or free, is eligible. Your book does not have to be produced by a traditional publisher or distributed through “brick and mortar” bookstores or online retailers to be eligible.

For example, a spiral-bound collection of recipes that you sell at holiday bazaars would be eligible.

You must have the publication rights for all the contents of the book, both text and images.

Can children and teens submit books to the collection?

Yes.

Do you accept self-published / independently published books?

Yes, the St. Helens Public Library is encouraging all authors who meet the eligibility requirements to submit their books for consideration for inclusion in the special collection regardless of whether they are traditionally published or self-published / independently published. 

Will you accept ebooks or audiobooks?

At this time, we are only accepting physical books.

Will the special collection reopen for submissions in 2026?

Yes. Submissions will reopen in April 2026, and continue throughout the year. New items will be available by February 2027.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FORM

What are ISBNs and ASINs?

An ISBN, or international standard book number, is a unique 10 or 13-number identifier for a book, which includes information about the title, publisher, edition, and format. An ISBN is not the same as an ASIN, or Amazon standard identification number. You do not need an ISBN or an ASIN to submit your book to the special collection. However, if you have an ISBN and/or an ASIN, please provide it on the expression of interest form to help with cataloging of your book.

What is a blurb?

A blurb is a short description of the contents of a book designed to entice potential readers. For fiction books, a blurb might summarize the plot without giving away any spoilers. For nonfiction books, a blurb might summarize the book’s topic. Blurbs are often found on the back of a physical book or on an online sales page. Providing a blurb for your book will help with the cataloging process and may be used in marketing materials and communications.