The LOC CIP program, which gives publishers cataloging information in advance of publication, began in 1971. Before then, I don't think it was usual for publish

The LOC CIP program, which gives publishers cataloging information in advance of publication, began in 1971. Before then, I don't think it was usual for publishers to have more than a catalog card number. The CIP program mainly exists to make it easier for libraries to acquire and catalog books. LOC still requires that the data be printed in the book, even though most libraries now not surprisingly get the information online, either directly from LOC or from a service like OCLC.