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Self-Publishing Thoughts #4: ISBNs
Hey folks- this one is going to be pretty geared towards US authors. Apologies.
Today we’re going to talk about ISBNs!
What are ISBNs?
It is a unique, 13-digit numerical identifier for your book. When publishing, you’re going to need a unique ISBN for each version of your book (ex.- e-book vs paperback vs hardback vs audiobook). Translated versions and new editions also require new ISBNs.
For an example of what an ISBN looks like, check the copyright page of a book. They’ll usually be listed there.
Why do I need an ISBN?
In summary, if you want people to buy it, you’ll need it. Publishers, booksellers, libraries, internet retailers and other supply chain participants use it for ordering, listing, sales records, etc. For more info, visit here.
But I’ve heard e-books don’t require ISBNs?
Technically, you don’t need an ISBN to sell an e-book, particularly if you’re only selling through Kindle. But if you want to distribute wide (aka more than one retailer), you should assign a ISBN to your e-book as well. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of why.
But Amazon/Ingram Spark/B&N said they’d provide me an ISBN! Do I really need to buy one?
You could use their ISBN, sure. But they control that number, not you- and at the end of the day, the more you control about your publishing process, the better. In short, it’s recommended you use your own ISBN.
Where do I get an ISBN?
In short: Bowker. That’s the only place to buy ISBNs in the US. I recommend buying a bundle, even though it’s pricey.
⭐ Note: do not buy barcodes from Bowker. You can generate those for free elsewhere. My cover designer actually generated one for me. You do not need to have your price on your barcode if you anticipate changing your price for events and such.
What do I do with my ISBN?
A few things!
Before you publish, you’ll need to assign an ISBN to your book. Here’s a handy guide on how to fill out the info for an e-book and a paperback.
⭐ Note: You’ll need to have the final title of your book before assigning your ISBN.
Once you’ve assigned the info and your ISBN has been approved, you should add it to your copyright page. You can list all of your ISBNs on the page (you don’t have to maintain a separate copyright page for each version of your book).
More Info!
A Comprehensive Guide to ISBNs < has valuable info on barcodes & how to properly sign up wide to avoid ISBN issues between retailers.
ISBNS for Self Publishers < has info on how to get ISBNs if you’re outside the US.
Self-Publishing taglist under the cut (ask to be +/-):
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