A guide to ISBNs for self-publishing authors

For self-publishing authors, navigating the publishing process involves many new concepts, and one of the most important is the International Standard Book Number, or ISBN. This unique identifier is essential for distributing and selling your book, whether you’re offering it in print or digital formats. Understanding what an ISBN is, why you need one, and how to obtain it can help ensure that your book reaches its intended audience. Here’s a guide to ISBNs for self-publishing authors.

1. What is an ISBN?

An ISBN, or International Standard Book Number, is a 13-digit identifier used worldwide to distinguish one book from another. It is unique to each edition and format of a book – meaning that a hardcover version of a book would have a different ISBN than the paperback, ebook, or audiobook versions.

Think of an ISBN as a kind of fingerprint for your book. It ensures that booksellers, libraries, and distributors can easily track, order, and manage your book in their systems. This unique identifier also appears in a barcode on the back of a printed book, making it easy for retailers to scan and sell copies.

2. Why do self-publishing authors need an ISBN?

Having an ISBN is essential if you want your book to be available for sale through major bookstores, online retailers, and libraries. It enables your book to be listed in key databases like those used by bookstores and libraries, making it easier for readers to find and purchase your work.

Here are some key reasons why an ISBN is important for self-publishing authors:

• Distribution: Without an ISBN, your book cannot be listed on online platforms like Amazon, Apple Books, or with traditional booksellers.
• Credibility: Having an ISBN gives your book a professional appearance and helps distinguish it as a serious publication.
• Inventory management: Retailers and libraries use ISBNs to manage their stock and orders, ensuring that your book can be tracked and ordered correctly.

3. How to obtain an ISBN

The process of obtaining an ISBN varies depending on your location. In some countries, self-publishing authors can purchase an ISBN directly from an official ISBN agency. Here’s a general overview of how to get an ISBN:

• Find your local ISBN agency: Each country has its own agency that issues ISBNs. For example, Bowker is the official agency in the United States, while Nielsen issues ISBNs in the United Kingdom. In Australia, you can purchase an ISBN from Thorpe-Bowker.
• Decide how many ISBNs you need: If you plan to publish multiple formats of your book, you’ll need a separate ISBN for each one. For example, if you’re releasing a paperback, ebook, and audiobook, you will need three different ISBNs.
• Apply online: Most ISBN agencies have online application forms, making it easy to register your book and obtain your ISBNs. Be prepared to provide details about your book, including the title, author name, and publication date.
• Pay the fee: The cost of obtaining an ISBN varies by country and can be more economical if purchased in blocks rather than individually.

It’s important to note that ISBNs never expire, so any that you purchase can be used for future publications.

4. ISBNs for print books vs. ebooks

As a self-publishing author, it’s essential to understand the difference between ISBNs for print books and ebooks. Each format of your book requires its own ISBN to ensure it’s properly catalogued and sold:

• Print books: Each version of your print book, such as a hardcover and a paperback, needs a unique ISBN. This allows bookstores and libraries to distinguish between the formats.
• Ebooks: Ebooks also require their own ISBN, separate from the print editions. However, some self-publishing platforms, such as Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), do not require an ISBN to publish an ebook on their platform – they will assign their own identifier called an ASIN (Amazon Standard Identification Number). Despite this, having an ISBN can make it easier to distribute your ebook through other retailers and libraries.

For many authors, it’s beneficial to have an ISBN for their ebook even if it’s not strictly required by all platforms, as it can help expand distribution opportunities beyond a single retailer.

5. Using a free ISBN vs purchasing your own

Many self-publishing platforms, like Amazon KDP and IngramSpark, offer free ISBNs as part of their services. While this can be convenient, it’s important to understand the implications of using a free ISBN versus purchasing your own:

• Ownership and control: If you accept a free ISBN from a platform like KDP, the platform becomes the publisher of record, even though you retain your author rights. Purchasing your own ISBN allows you to list yourself or your self-publishing company as the publisher, giving you greater control.
• Distribution limitations: Some free ISBNs may be restricted to use only on the platform that provided them, limiting your ability to distribute your book elsewhere. If you plan to sell your book on multiple platforms, it’s often better to purchase your own ISBN.

Owning your ISBN ensures that you have maximum flexibility and control over how and where your book is sold, making it a good investment for authors who want a professional publishing experience.

6. Adding the ISBN to your book

Once you’ve obtained an ISBN, you’ll need to include it in your book’s front matter and in the barcode on the back cover of a printed book. The barcode allows bookstores and libraries to scan your book easily, streamlining the sales process.

Your ISBN should also be included in the metadata when you upload your book to publishing platforms, ensuring that your book is properly listed and searchable by readers and retailers.

Final thoughts

An ISBN is a small but crucial part of the self-publishing process, acting as the key that unlocks distribution channels and professional credibility. By understanding what an ISBN is and how to use it, self-publishing authors can position their books for success in the marketplace. Whether you choose to use a free ISBN or purchase your own, taking control of this aspect of your publishing journey can help you reach more readers and achieve your publishing goals.