Produce a final draft of your work. Hire a professional editor to edit your book for grammatical errors and structural flaws. Have a professional designer help you format the book's layout (the type of paper, the size of the pages, the type face and size, the type of color, etc.) for printing. Include an author photo and short bio if you desire.
Copyright your work. Copyrights are obtained from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office. A link to their website can be found in the resources section.
Save a digital copy of the final draft of the children's book on a USB drive. Make sure it is in the format required by the printers (usually Pagemaker, QuarkXpress, PDF or CorelVentura-your layout designer can help with this).
Obtain an ISBN (International Standard Book Number) for your book. This unique number is assigned to all published books and provides retailers with the information related to your book. ISBN numbers are obtained from Library and Archives Canada. A link to the application form and other pertinent information can be found in the resources section.
Obtain CIP (Cataloging in Publication) data. Libraries must have a CIP to catalogue your book. You must first have an ISBN number to apply for your CIP. A link for the application can be found in the resources section.
Obtain a bar code. Your printer may be able to arrange this for you. If not, you can obtain a free one at Tux.org or another free bar code generator.
Plan your distribution. This will help you determine the number of books you need printed. Contact bookstores. Many will sell your books on commission (for a percentage of the cover price). Some bookstores do not deal with individuals (consider hiring a professional distributor as a liaisonOr, look elsewhere. Think about organizations that would be interested in purchasing your book. Contact small bookstores, children's hospitals and organizations, children's stores and anyone else that may be interested in purchasing your book or selling it on consignment.
Contact several printing houses and choose one that fits your needs (your layout designer may be able to help you make an informed decision). Ask for an estimate based on the number of pages, type of paper, binding material cover type (hard or soft, with or without a dust jacket) and the number of books you would like to print.
Receive and edit the proof of your book with your editor and layout manager's help. Return the proof and discuss any problems or changes with your printer. After the proof is approved and submitted, you will receive your prints.
Publicize your book. Send a press release to local and national print publications. Contact local and national television shows and children's programs that may be interested in featuring a children's book or author. Ask any bookstores or other retailers that have agreed to carry your book, local schools, churches and other organizations to allow you to host a book signing and/or reading. If you feel uncomfortable with this sort of self promotion, consider hiring a professional public relations firm or freelance agent to handle publicity for you.
Deposit a copy of your book with the National Library of Canada in accordance with the National Library Act. They will require two copies of your book. See the link in the resources section for more details.