An ISBN number is a 13-digit code assigned to publications. It helps identify each publication and ensures that readers get the exact book they are looking for.

Assigning ISBNs can get complicated very quickly as these unique numbers can be applied to different forms of media like print books, eBooks, and audiobooks. But whether you’re a publisher or a self-publishing author, we’re here to help you grasp the importance of ISBNs and how to manage them effectively for different types of media. 

ISBN Requirements for Print Books vs. eBooks vs. Audiobooks

If you plan to distribute your book in different formats, you should know that each format requires a unique ISBN number. Each number will help to distinguish your hardback, paperback, eBook, or audiobook from one another so that they can be easily identified in the market. Here’s what to keep in mind regarding ISBN requirements for different formats:

• Print Books (Hardback/Paperback): Each physical version of your book requires its own ISBN. Whether it’s a hardcover or a softcover edition, separate ISBNs for each format will make tracking sales and inventory easier.
• eBooks:
  • ISBN Use: While not always mandatory, having an ISBN for your eBook can be beneficial, particularly if you plan to distribute through multiple channels.
  • Platform-Specific Policies: Some online retailers, like Amazon for Kindle eBooks, don’t require an ISBN. However, distributors such as Draft2Digital do, and they can provide a free ISBN—which makes them the technical publisher of your eBook.
• Audiobooks: Audiobooks require a unique ISBN like print and eBooks. This helps in cataloging and differentiating from other formats.
  
  Bear in mind that using the same ISBN for different editions can lead to confusion and dissatisfaction among readers and retailers. As you manage your publications, consider the investment in ISBNs as part of your publishing strategy. If you’re in the US, you can acquire ISBNs through Bowker Identifier Services, with prices varying based on quantity. While the cost may seem steep, remember that an ISBN number is a powerful tool in establishing your book’s identity in the literary world.

Acquiring and Managing ISBNs for Publishers and Self-Publishers

To self-publish, you also need an ISBN number.

• Acquisition for Self-Publishers: While platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing and IngramSpark may offer free ISBNs, these are typically non-transferable. This means if you obtain a free ISBN from one platform, you’re limited to publishing only on that platform with that specific ISBN. For the flexibility to publish across various platforms, you’ll need to purchase your own.

• Purchasing Your Own ISBN: To buy an ISBN, you’ll have to go through the official supplier in your country. In the US, that’s Bowker. Costs can vary, but buying ISBNs in bulk, such as a 10-pack, is generally more economical, which can significantly reduce the cost per ISBN.

• Managing Your ISBNs:  Each format of your book—hardcover, paperback, eBook, and audiobook—requires a unique ISBN. This is essential to recognize your book as a single item across various retail sites. Here are some tips for managing your ISBNs:

• Track Your ISBNs: Keep a detailed record of which ISBN is associated with each book format and edition. This avoids confusion and ensures accurate sales tracking.
• Register Your ISBNs: Register your ISBN with Bowkerlink to guarantee proper tracking and visibility in bibliographic databases.
• Control Your Metadata: Owning your ISBN number allows you to control the metadata for your book, which includes information like the title, author name, book description, and pricing. This enhances your professional image as it lists you as the publisher.

Managing ISBN Assignment and Purchase

Getting an ISBN is important for your book to stand out. Here are some key steps to follow.:

• Understanding ISBN Structure: An ISBN number is composed of 13 digits, each segment providing specific information about your book. The prefix indicates the country or language group, followed by a code for the publisher, then the title and format, and finally, a check digit for validation.
• Purchasing ISBNs: In the US, Bowker Identifier Services is the official place to purchase your ISBNs. Prices vary based on quantity, and buying in bulk can be cost-effective. Remember, each book format—hardback, paperback, eBook, audiobook, or large print—requires a separate ISBN. Contact your national ISBN agency for purchase if you’re outside the US.
• Assignment and Metadata: You can assign an ISBN at any stage before publication. Be mindful that using your own ISBN may affect distribution options on platforms like Amazon’s KDP. The ISBN forms part of your book’s metadata, appearing on the back cover and in the front matter.
• Barcode Generation: A barcode, the machine-readable form of an ISBN, can be created for free online; however, for more customizable solutions and better control of your labels, consider an ISBN label provider like AccuGraphiX.
• Important Considerations:
  • ISBNs by Country: ISBNs are country-specific, so make sure you purchase from the correct agency.
  • No Resale: ISBNs cannot be resold individually; ownership is non-transferable.
  • Ebook Requirements: Many platforms, including iBooks and Kobo, as well as libraries, require an ISBN for eBooks.

Conclusion

In summary, ISBN numbers play a crucial role in the publishing world by identifying different formats of books and ensuring smooth cataloging and distribution. Managing ISBNs is essential for authors and publishers to establish a professional presentation of their work and enhance discoverability. By investing in ISBNs, authors can maintain control over their work and ensure their creations are findable in the intricate publishing world.

ISBN Label Solutions from AccuGraphiX

If you’re an author or publisher looking for reliable and professional ISBN label generation, look no further than AccuGraphiX. With their high-quality EPS files and exceptional customer service, they can help you streamline the process of publishing your work. Don’t let the hassle of ISBN labeling slow you down – contact AccuGraphiX today and get your publishing journey started on the right foot.

FAQs

What is the purpose of an ISBN?

An International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is a unique identifier for books, specifically for publications that are not issued indefinitely. It serves as a national and international standard for book identification.

Why are there different ISBNs for the same book?

Different formats or bindings of a book each require a distinct ISBN. This includes variations such as hardcover, paperback, VHS video, laserdisc, and e-book formats. Additionally, a revised book edition must have a new ISBN; once an ISBN is assigned, it cannot be reused.

How crucial is an ISBN to a book?

The ISBN is a critical system for numbering and identifying books globally. It enables retailers to locate, identify, and purchase a book by its title, author name, and format (e.g., hardback or paperback), ensuring it can be sold to consumers.

Do ebooks need a unique ISBN for each format?

Yes, if you publish a book in different formats like hardcover, paperback, and ebook, each format must have its own ISBN. For example, you would need three separate ISBNs for these three formats. Purchasing ISBNs in bulk, such as a 10-pack from Bowker in the US, is more cost-effective than buying them individually.

What does the prefix 978 signify in an ISBN?

The prefixes 978 and 979 are used by the publishing industry and are assigned to the fictitious country of “Bookland.” This ensures that barcodes for books are compatible with the barcode system used for other products.

What are the implications of different ISBNs for the same book?

An ISBN is designed to identify a specific edition of a book. This means that different editions, such as hardcover and paperback, or a revised edition, will each have their own unique ISBN even if the title remains the same.

Are ISBNs consistent across different editions?

No, each new edition of a book, even if it has the same title as a previous edition, is considered a separate product and, therefore, must have its own ISBN.

Should I use a 10-digit or 13-digit ISBN?

The ISBN system transitioned from 10-digit to 13-digit ISBNs on January 1, 2007. Now, all ISBNs are 13 digits long. If you have 10-digit ISBNs, you can convert them to the 13-digit format using an online converter.

What is the difference between ISBN-10 and ISBN-13?

ISBN-10 and ISBN-13 represent the number of digits in an ISBN, with ISBN-10 being the older system used before 2007. The introduction of the 13-digit ISBN system was to increase the availability of ISBNs worldwide.

Can the same ISBN be used across different retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble?

For ebooks, the same ISBN can be used on all sales platforms without issues. However, for print books, the same ISBN cannot be used across multiple sales platforms like Barnes & Noble, Ingram Spark, or D2D print (which utilizes Ingram Spark for printing). Each platform requires a unique ISBN for print books.