The Cattle-Log
The Cattle-Log
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Catalogue? Catalog? Or is it: Cattle-log?
Catalogue? Catalog? Or is it: Cattle-log?
Not to suggest that authors are cattle or anything. We'd never! (Heck, we’re authors ourselves. But, after all, we are Bell Cow Productions!)
We have created a catalog—one designed to help libraries and independent bookstores discover and connect with local authors. Bell Cow rounds up books by local writers, complete with details about where they live, so booksellers and librarians can easily spotlight homegrown talent in their stores and stacks.
The goal? Simple. Get local authors into the hands of local readers. Because nothing beats a good book—except maybe a good book written in your own backyard.
In case you're wondering, "catalogue" is the standard British English spelling, and "catalog" is the standard American English version. There, saved you having to look it up. But, this is a cattle-log--because we like to play with words and add a little whimsy to the otherwise painful and plodding (like those non-bell cows) world of book marketing.
Here's a link to the 2026 Minnesota Cattle-Log! Registration for the 2027 Cattle-Log is now open (see below), and we intend to mooove ahead, expanding with a Wisconsin Cattle-Log in 2027.
How do I get started?
How do I get started?
Jump the fence to the submission page, send your fee our way, and we'll reach out with the instructions and form to complete your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (Or, "Questions We Totally Expected")
Frequently Asked Questions (Or, "Questions We Totally Expected")
What kinds of books can be included?
What kinds of books can be included?
Adult Fiction is what we're sticking with now, but any sub-genre within that works for us. Mystery, Thriller, Romance, Rom-Com, Bookclub, Contemporary, Historical, Literary, you know the deal. That said, we do reserve the right to decline listings that don’t align with our mission. (Example: If your book is titled How to Outsmart a Library Late Fee, this might not be the best fit.)
Will this guarantee my book gets into bookstores and libraries?
Will this guarantee my book gets into bookstores and libraries?
We wish! But no, we don’t control what bookstores and libraries choose to stock. Bell Cow makes sure they know about your book, which is half the battle. The rest is up to them (and, let’s be honest, the whims of the literary universe).
How much does it cost to be included?
How much does it cost to be included?
Annual charge for an author page is $60.00 for which an author, and all her/his books, are exposed to approximately 500 library and bookstore book buyers, and are eligible to participate in the Bell Cow Author Round-up podcast.
I remember hearing something about a podcast...
I remember hearing something about a podcast...
That's not a question, but we'll accept it. Yes, Bell Cow Productions has podcasts. And you are welcome to be part of them. One is the Author Round-Up (one-on-one conversations with the hosts), and the other is StoryLab (panel conversations on fiction-related topics). How do you join? Shoot us an email, let's chat.
What happens after I submit?
What happens after I submit?
We’ll review your submission, make sure everything looks good, and add it to the upcoming catalog. Then we send that catalog out to libraries and indie bookstores, so they can find and feature local authors like you.
Can I submit more than one book?
Can I submit more than one book?
The entry is per author, and we feature your most current title. But we also include an index for all your other books--so please include them in the submission!
What if I make a mistake on my submission?
What if I make a mistake on my submission?
Double-check before you submit! But if you realize there’s an error, email us ASAP—if we haven’t finalized the catalog yet, we might be able to fix it. We'll do our best, but no promises.
How often is the catalog published?
How often is the catalog published?
It's an annual catalog, with semi-annual web-updates. If you miss this round, keep an eye out for the next one!
Can bookstores or libraries request a copy?
Can bookstores or libraries request a copy?
Absolutely! We have a distribution list that should catch everyone, but it's possible someone will slip through the cracks (or get caught in the email filters). Either way, we’re happy to send a copy to any Minnesota bookstore or library that wants one. If you’re a bookseller or librarian, email us to get yours.
Is there a deadline to submit?
Is there a deadline to submit?
Yes! November 1, 2026, for the 2027 Cattle-Log. Here's the link to join the herd.
I'm someone who would love to advertise in the Cattle-Log. How do I do that?
I'm someone who would love to advertise in the Cattle-Log. How do I do that?
Great question! We had spots in the Cattle-Log for ads for 2026, and are doing that again. We also have added the podcast, which has advertising options as well. The best course of action is simply to contact us, so we can chat about the various options.
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