Frequently Asked Questions – Canadian Publishers Council

Q: How can I get my book published?

The Writers’ Union of Canada, a national organization of professional writers of books for the general public, has information including a resource guide, contract and evaluation services, and publications that can be sent to you. For more information contact The Writers’ Union of Canada at www.writersunion.ca or call 416-703-8982.

Q: How do I get an International Standard Book Number (ISBN)?

Contact the National Library of Canada’s Canadian ISBN Agency
Telephone: 819-994-6872
Fax: 819-953-8508
Email: BAC.ISBN.LAC@canada.ca

Q: Where can I get a list of Canadian publishers/ wholesalers/ agents/ packagers/ bookstores/ etc.?

Quill & Quire publishes a directory titled “The Book Trade in Canada” which is published annually. It should be available in your local library. To order a copy, please contact Quill & Quire at 416-364-3333.

Q: I’ve been approached by a publisher who wants to publish my book, but I’ve never heard of them. Are they legit?

Contact The Writers’ Union of Canada. Don’t give the publisher any money.

Q: I have the title of a book. Could you tell me who publishes it?

Bowker publishes “Books in Print” which is available in your library or bookstore. The directory has a listing of titles, authors, publishers and ISBNs. Search the Books In Print database online using Bookwire.

Q: Where can I learn how to work in the publishing industry?

We suggest that you take publishing courses such as:

Centennial College
Book & Magazine Publishing Certificate Program
Toronto, Ontario
tel. (416) 289-5000

Simon Fraser University
The Writing and Publishing Program
Certificate and Master Program
Vancouver, British Columbia
tel. (604) 291-5077

The SFU Master of Publishing Program
Vancouver, British Columbia
tel. (604) 291-5242

Ryerson Polytechnic University
Certificate in Publishing Program
Toronto, Ontario
tel. (416) 979-5180

Banff Centre for the Arts
Writing and Publishing
Banff, Alberta
tel. (403) 762-6278

Editors Association of Canada
Offers editing workshops and seminars
Toronto, Ontario
tel. (416) 975-1379

Book Publishers’ Professional Association
Offers book publishing and selling seminars
For more information, write to the BPPA c/o:
99 Avenue Road, P.O. Box 83513
Toronto, Ontario M5R 2G5

Q: How do I find a job in the publishing industry?

For opportunities in Canadian publishing, see our Careers page.