11/02/2023
What is an ISBN number and why do you need one?
ISBNs are the global standard for book identification. ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number, and is a unique 13-digit numeric identifier linked to a book. It identifies the publisher (that is you if you are self-publishing) as well as the specific book title, edition and format.
Do you need one? There may be instances where you don't need an ISBN number, however there are so many advantages to having one that it is strongly recommended.
Some of those advantages include:
It establishes the publisher of record
It improves the likelihood your book will be found and purchased because, by having an ISBN, your book is included in databases that booksellers and libraries use to find books
It links to essential information about your book
It enables more efficient marketing and distribution of your title
It helps you analyze sales
If you are publishing multiple forms of your book, for example, a hard cover, paperback, and an eBook, each of those will need its own ISBN number. ISBN numbers are available for purchase from Bowker. On their website, they offer several options for purchasing them. If you plan to write multiple books and offer them in multiple formats, my recommendation is to start with the block of 10 because it brings the cost per ISBN number down substantially. ISBNs never expire, so you will have them available for future use as needed.
If you would like to learn more about book publishing numbers and other self-publishing resources, please don't hesitate contact us