If you are thinking of publishing a nonfiction book then you must present the information in a factual manner. Facts don’t need to be boring, but they need to be accurate. Therefore, the contents of your book should be based on solid research. When publishing a book you should utilize research from a variety of sources to ensure validity of your content. The last thing you want when publishing a book is to find that your facts are faulty and could lead to not only publishing failure, but legal action.

What resources should you use when researching your book? The answer to this question depends on your nonfiction topic. If you are writing about the Civil War then you should begin at the library because books about this topic have been published extensively in the past. However, if you are thinking of publishing a book about a new technological breakthrough then you may have to consult experts in the field instead.

To cover all the bases we will look at the accepted resources for research when publishing a book which include: libraries, the Internet, the Government, and Businesses. When you research in a library you can start with your local library. Also seek out libraries on college campuses in your area as well as specialized libraries. Before your trip to the library you can sift through their catalog online. However, speaking with a librarian will yield more resources. Librarians can find books, CDs, DVDs, and other material that relate to your topic. They can also connect you with bigger libraries through an interlibrary loan program. Librarians are there to help you, so don’t be shy!

Next you can compile research from the Internet. Be very cautious with Internet information. It is difficult to determine the validity of research from websites created by individuals. Therefore, search for information from trusted associations such as the National Institute of Health. Use search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and Ask.com to find information regarding your topic.

You can conduct research when publishing a book through businesses. Trade associations often publish business information listings from which you can contact businesses. For example, you can contact a Real Estate Association to find information on Realtors in your area if you wish to publish a book on real estate.

You can also find research through the federal government. A great deal of this research is online. Check out www.census.gov, www.access.gpo.gov, and www.ntis.gov for further information.

When publishing a book it is critical that you double, if not triple, check your facts. Conduct thorough research to provide readers with the best and most accurate information possible.