What does "self-published" means in the context of fanfiction?

[Sataniel]

Specifically, are fanfics published only on platforms such as fanfiction.net or Archive of Our Own considered self-published?

[rivka, Former Moderator]

Novel-length fanfics which are complete (not WIPs) and posted on sites that do not require membership to access stories are considered published by Goodreads. The publisher would be fanfiction.net, or AO3, or whatever site the story was made available through.

However, please note that fanfic listings will be removed from the site if the author requests.