Publishing a book comes with many steps, and one crucial part is getting an ISBN. If you want to sell your book through bookstores, libraries, or online platforms, you’ll need this unique identifier. But where do you start? What’s the process like? Many new authors have these questions, and the good news is that obtaining an ISBN is not as complicated as it may seem.
An ISBN number purchase is essential for self-published authors and small publishers. This number helps distributors track and manage book sales while making it easier for readers to find your book. Whether you’re publishing in print or digital formats, an ISBN plays a key role in giving your work a professional touch.
Now, let’s break down the steps you need to follow to get one.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Determine If You Need an ISBN
Not all books require an ISBN. If you’re only publishing a personal project or a book for private distribution, you might not need one. However, if your goal is to sell your book through online retailers, bookstores, or libraries, getting an ISBN is a must.
Here’s when you should get one:
- If you’re publishing a print book, whether hardcover or paperback.
- If you’re releasing an eBook, but note that some platforms assign their own identification numbers.
- If you want your book to be available in libraries.
- If you plan to distribute your book internationally.
If any of these apply to you, move on to the next step.
Step 2: Find the Official ISBN Agency in Your Country
ISBNs are issued by official agencies in each country. You can’t buy them from just any source. Instead, you need to check where to purchase one based on your location.
- In the U.S., Bowker is the official agency for ISBN number purchases.
- In the U.K., you can get an ISBN through Nielsen.
- In Canada, ISBNs are free and issued by Library and Archives Canada.
- For other countries, check the International ISBN Agency website for the correct source.
Once you find the right agency, visit their website to create an account and prepare for the next step.
Step 3: Choose the Number of ISBNs You Need
When you buy an ISBN, you can purchase a single number or a block of multiple ISBNs. But how do you know how many to get?
Each format of your book needs its own ISBN. That means:
- One ISBN for the paperback version.
- Another ISBN for the hardcover version.
- A separate ISBN for the eBook is required.
If you plan to release more books in the future, it’s often cheaper to buy a block of ISBNs rather than purchasing them one at a time.
Step 4: Complete the ISBN Registration
After choosing your ISBN package, you’ll need to provide details about your book. Typically, the registration form will ask for:
- The book’s title and subtitle.
- The author’s name.
- The publisher’s name (if you’re self-publishing, you can use your own name).
- The book’s format and genre.
- The publication date.
Once you’ve filled out all the required fields, submit the form. Some agencies issue the ISBN immediately, while others may take a few days.
Step 5: Assign the ISBN to Your Book
Once you receive your ISBN, it’s time to assign it to your book. This step is crucial because an ISBN cannot be reused or changed after publication.
- Print the ISBN inside the book, usually on the copyright page.
- If you’re selling physical copies, include a barcode with the ISBN on the back cover.
- When publishing digitally, enter the ISBN in the publishing platform’s settings.
Some self-publishing platforms, like Amazon KDP, provide their own free ISBNs, but using your own gives you full control over your book’s distribution.
Step 6: Submit Your ISBN to Booksellers and Libraries
After assigning your ISBN, you’ll need to register it with book retailers and libraries. Some agencies automatically add your book to their database, but you may also need to update platforms manually.
- If you’re selling through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or other online stores, enter your ISBN during the book setup process.
- For library distribution, check if you need to register with services like Bowker’s Books in Print or Nielsen’s database in the UK.
This step ensures your book is correctly cataloged and available to a wider audience.
Final Thoughts
Getting an ISBN might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in your book’s success. Whether you’re publishing your first novel or launching a series, ISBN number purchase ensures your book is recognized in the industry. By following these steps.
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