LFPL is happy to consider recently published books and other items for our collection. We receive many inquiries from authors, publishers, and publisher's representatives and have created these guidelines to clarify the process.
The Library routinely acquires books published by commercial publishers that fit the Library's collection development plan and meet our selection criteria. We also may acquire self-published books when they include unique local content and fit the scope of the Library's collection plan.
Having your book receive a positive review in one or more of the major review journals (such as Library Journal, School Library Journal, Kirkus Reviews, Booklist and Publisher's Weekly) is the best way to bring a title to our attention. We are more likely to consider adding a self-published book to our collection if it has been reviewed in a major review journal. Positive reviews posted on Amazon or on blogs and personal websites are seldom helpful in our decision process.
Submissions of music follow the same criteria outlined above. Links or copies of reviews are helpful. Music donations can only be accepted in CD format and must include artwork and a track list. You should also indicate which genre your CD should be considered (Bluegrass, Celebrations, Country, Dance/Electronica, Folk, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Latin, New Age, Pop/Rock, R&B, Reggae, Religious/Gospel, Soundtrack, World, or Classical).
Contacting the Library
Telephone – Telephone solicitation is not accepted at this time.
Email: Email selection@lfpl.org and include the following:
- Basic bibliographic information about your item (title, author, ISBN, publisher, date of publication, number of pages, price)
- A link to your item's website and links to reviews or other news media coverage (if available)
- A brief description of your item, its intended audience, and how or where to buy it
Mail - Please do not send a review copy. Instead, send a flyer or promotional materials to:
Louisville Free Public Library
Attn: Content Management Department – Materials Selection
301 York St., Louisville, KY 40203
Please note: we cannot notify you if your item is not selected because of the number of submissions we receive.